2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL trim levels, offered a straightforward choice with a single engine and transmission combination, and the option of front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). The test car, an SL trim with front-drive, included the SL Premium Package, carpeted floor and cargo mats, and a first-aid kit, totaling $34,870. Despite its age, the Rogue remained attractive with its bold V-Motion grille and 19-inch aluminum wheels. However, the interior showed its age with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces. The padded center console sides were a thoughtful touch for driver comfort.

In contrast, the 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe, available in SE, SEL, and Limited trims, offered a turbocharged engine option for enhanced power and performance. The test vehicle, a Limited 2.0T trim with dealer-installed floor mats, was priced at $39,170. The Santa Fe's design was bold and experimental, with a grille shape, stacked front lighting elements, and asymmetrical fender stampings that might not appeal to everyone. Inside, the dual-cowl dashboard design and high-contrast interior colors added drama and character. While the materials quality was not exceptional, the build quality and refined controls were impressive.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue featured a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Weighing up to 3,671 pounds, the Rogue's powertrain was merely adequate. The CVT made the most of the available power, but the Rogue struggled during freeway acceleration, passing, and climbing grades, often responding with noise rather than action. The EPA estimated 29 mpg in combined driving for FWD versions, but testing revealed a disappointing 24.9 mpg. The Rogue's ride and handling benefited from Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the overall driving experience was lackluster due to lifeless steering and occasional CVT drone.

The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe, with a minimum curb weight of 3,591 pounds, offered a standard 185-horsepower 2.4-liter engine, but the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 235 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque was the preferred choice. The eight-speed automatic transmission funneled power to the front wheels, with AWD as an option. The test vehicle, a FWD model, experienced torque steer under hard acceleration, which AWD could mitigate. The Santa Fe's towing capacity was 3,500 pounds. The EPA estimated 23 mpg in combined driving for the 2.0T, and the test model returned 22.1 mpg. The Santa Fe provided a smooth ride, decent handling, and a quiet highway experience, making it a competent daily driver.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior comfort was compromised for taller drivers, with limited seat height adjustment and legroom. The rear seats, however, offered excellent thigh support, a proper backrest angle, and a panoramic glass sunroof, making it a preferred spot for passengers. In-cabin storage was limited, but the cargo area provided 39 cubic feet of space, underfloor storage compartments, and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe excelled in interior comfort and thoughtful design. The test vehicle featured eight-way power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated front seats, with additional lumbar and thigh support adjustments. The dual-zone automatic climate control system included a Clean Air ionizer, and the panoramic glass sunroof did not hinder air conditioning effectiveness. The rear seats were comfortable for adults, with air conditioning vents, sunshades, and heated cushions. The Santa Fe's cargo space was 35.9 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expandable to 71.3 cubic feet, with large underfloor storage compartments. The hands-free "smart" liftgate added convenience.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a hands-free text messaging assistant. Upgrades included SiriusXM satellite radio, navigation, a Bose premium sound system, and NissanConnect Services with features like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and remote access. However, the 7-inch touchscreen interface was outdated, with slow response times and subpar voice recognition.

The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe's infotainment system was user-friendly, with stereo control knobs, main menu shortcut buttons, and a programmable button. Standard features included Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The SEL trim added SiriusXM satellite radio and Blue Link connected services with three free years of service. The Limited trim featured an 8-inch display, navigation, a surround-view camera, wireless smartphone charging, and a 12-speaker Infinity sound system. The head-up display provided valuable information within the driver's line of sight. The voice recognition system was sophisticated and responsive.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with standard Safety Shield 360, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additional features included a Rear Door Alert and Tire Fill Alert system. Optional safety features included a surround-view camera and ProPilot Assist adaptive cruise control. However, the Rogue's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA and issues with IIHS ratings.

The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe earned a five-star overall crash-test rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The SEL trim added blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and a safe exit assist system. The SEL Convenience Package included an ultrasonic occupant alert system, and the Limited trim featured a Blind-Spot View Monitor. The Santa Fe's safety features were comprehensive and advanced.