2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2020 Lexus RX

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, SL Premium Package, carpeted floor and cargo mats, and a first-aid kit, was priced at $34,870, including a $1,095 destination charge. 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 Lexus RX received significant upgrades inside and out, making it stand out in a crowded field. The exterior featured standard 18-inch wheels, slimmer headlights, and L-shaped taillights, with optional triple-beam LED headlights. The refreshed grille and new paint colors, Moonbeam Beige Metallic and Nori Green Pearl, added to its appeal. The cabin was well-appointed with various interior colors and materials, including wood and satin-brushed aluminum trim. The F Sport package added unique styling elements and performance dampers, enhancing the luxurious feel. The RX's interior was designed to withstand family life while maintaining a premium look.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue was powered by 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 managed the power well, but the Rogue struggled during freeway acceleration, passing, and climbing grades, often responding with noise rather than action. The EPA estimated 29 mpg combined for FWD versions, but testing showed a disappointing 24.9 mpg. The Rogue's ride and handling were improved by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but it wasn't particularly fun to drive due to lifeless steering and occasional CVT drone.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 models were powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, achieving 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The RX 350L models had slightly lower power figures. The RX 450h hybrid combined the V6 with an electric motor for 308 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque, with the RX 450hL achieving 259 horsepower from the gasoline engine and 165 horsepower from an electric motor. The RX's performance was smooth, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.9 seconds. Fuel economy varied, with the RX 350 achieving 23 mpg combined and the RX 450h AWD getting 30 mpg combined. The F Sport models offered adaptive variable suspension and various drive modes, enhancing agility and driving experience.

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 thigh support, a proper backrest angle, and a great view, making it comfortable for passengers. The cargo area was spacious, with 39 cubic feet of space and additional underfloor storage compartments. The Divide-n-Hide cargo management system added to its utility.

The 2020 Lexus RX's interior was comfortable for four adults in the two-row model, but the third row in the RX-L was cramped and best suited for small children or pets. The front seats provided good visibility and comfort, though the A-pillar could obstruct views of curbs and corners. The cargo area was smaller than competitors, with a high load floor compromising space. The RX 350L and 450hL had even less cargo space compared to rivals like the Lincoln Aviator. A hands-free liftgate was available on RX 350 and 450h models and standard on RX-L versions.

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, slow to respond, and had subpar voice-recognition technology, making the tech experience frustrating.

The 2020 Lexus RX improved its infotainment system by moving the standard 8.0-inch display and available 12.3-inch touchscreen closer to the driver. Despite this, the system remained difficult to navigate. Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, Android Auto, and other integrations helped mitigate these issues. The center console touchpad system was more responsive, and the RX added two additional USB ports, totaling six. The standard 12-speaker audio system was adequate, with a 15-speaker Mark Levinson system available. A CD player was also standard, catering to audiophiles.

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 Rear Door Alert and Tire Fill Alert. Optional safety features were 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 Lexus RX featured Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and blind-spot monitoring. New for 2020 were daytime bicyclist detection, low-light pedestrian detection, road-sign assist, and lane-tracing assist. The RX also came with a three-year subscription to Lexus Enform Safety Connect and a 10-year subscription to Enform Service Connect. The RX received good safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, though not as high as newer models.