2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2020 Land Rover Defender

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL trim levels, offered a straightforward approach with a single engine and transmission combination, and a choice between front-wheel drive (FWD) and 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 with destination charges. Despite its age, the Rogue maintained an attractive appearance, especially with the SL’s 19-inch aluminum wheels. However, the interior design showed its age with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces. The padded center console sides were a thoughtful touch for driver comfort.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender brought back the classic, boxy design reminiscent of the beloved LR4, with squared-off edges, a rising roofline, and roundish headlights. The Defender's design included functional yet nostalgic elements like step plates and a ladder, though some were now more decorative than practical. The vehicle featured a flat roof carrier, alpine lights, and distinctive taillights. The Defender's exterior could be customized with various design themes, black fender flares, and additional off-road accessories. Inside, the Defender's industrial design included exposed screws, a powder-coated aluminum bar, and a mix of cloth and water-resistant synthetic materials. The HSE trim, priced around $75,000, lacked the luxury expected at that price point but emphasized durability and functionality.

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 adequate but not impressive. The CVT managed the power well, but the Rogue struggled during acceleration, passing, and climbing. The EPA estimated 29 mpg in combined driving for FWD models, but real-world testing yielded only 24.9 mpg. The Rogue's ride and handling benefited from Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the vehicle was not particularly fun to drive, with lifeless steering and occasional CVT drone.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender justified its price with impressive performance. The optional 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engine produced 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, aided by a mild hybrid system. The Defender's eight-speed automatic transmission offered a sport mode for aggressive launches. Off-road, the Defender excelled with Terrain Response 2 and adjustable-height suspension, handling steep angles and deep water with ease. The standard engine, a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four with 296 horsepower, was better suited for the smaller two-door 90 model. The Defender's off-road capabilities were complemented by a comfortable on-road experience, making it a versatile vehicle.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior space was a mixed bag. The front seats, though featuring Nissan’s Zero Gravity design, were somewhat undersized and difficult to adjust for taller drivers. The back seat, however, offered excellent comfort with high seat cushions, good thigh support, and a panoramic sunroof. Rear passengers enjoyed ample space and amenities like air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. Cargo space was a strong point, with 39 cubic feet behind the back seat and additional underfloor storage compartments.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender prioritized durability and functionality. The two-door 90 model, arriving in 2021, featured an optional jump seat, allowing it to seat six people. The four-door 110 model offered an optional third row, accommodating up to seven passengers. The interior design was simple and easy to use, with generous headroom and legroom. Cargo space varied by model, with the 90 offering 16 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 58 cubic feet with them folded. The 110 provided 34 cubic feet behind the second row and 79 cubic feet with them folded. The Defender's towing capacity was an impressive 8,200 pounds.

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. However, the 7-inch touchscreen interface was outdated and slow to respond, diminishing the overall tech experience.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender introduced the Pivi Pro infotainment system, a significant improvement over previous Jaguar Land Rover systems. It featured two SIM cards for streaming data and over-the-air updates. The interface was simpler and faster, though some user interface issues remained. Off-road capabilities were enhanced by front cameras showing the ground under the hood and a rearview mirror doubling as a screen. The Defender 110 came standard with many features, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and 360-degree cameras. Higher trims offered additional luxuries like a heated steering wheel and a 14-speaker Meridian stereo.

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 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 the NHTSA and some dings from the IIHS.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender had not been rated by U.S. crash testing agencies. It came with six airbags and standard safety features like forward emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, driver attention monitor, and 360-degree cameras. Optional features included rear cross-traffic alerts and exit alerts.