2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2020 Toyota 4Runner

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. 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 Toyota 4Runner showcased a timeless design with tall slab sides, a high beltline, and short overhangs, emphasizing its utilitarian attitude. The flared wheel wells accommodated bulky off-road tires, and the short overhangs allowed for tackling steep pitches. The Limited trim test model aimed at comfort, featuring leather upholstery and an 8-inch touchscreen. Despite the chrome and leather, the 4Runner's utilitarian DNA was evident with plenty of plastic and a seating position designed for off-road capability rather than highway comfort.

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 brake-induced technologies like Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the overall driving experience was lackluster due to lifeless steering and occasional CVT drone.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner, built on a truck chassis, featured a 4-liter V6 engine with a 5-speed automatic transmission, producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. This engine was designed for durability and off-road capability rather than smoothness and efficiency. The 4Runner could tow up to 5,000 pounds but had poor fuel economy, with EPA estimates of 16 mpg city, 19 highway, and 17 combined. The 4Runner excelled off-road with its body-on-frame construction and advanced traction systems like CRAWL control and Multi-Terrain Select. On-road, it exhibited significant body roll and vague steering, making it less enjoyable for highway driving.

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 Rogue provided 39 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat, with additional underfloor storage compartments and a standard Divide-n-Hide cargo management system. In-cabin storage was limited, with only the glove compartment offering substantial space.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner's interior was designed for off-road visibility, with a high seating position and large, chunky controls for the HVAC and stereo. The 4Runner's turning radius was surprisingly tight at 18 feet, 7 inches. The optional third row of seats in non-TRD and non-Venture trims was best suited for short and occasional use, lacking legroom and comfort. The 4Runner's body-on-frame construction and impressive ground clearance contributed to its commanding driving position and ability to handle rough terrain. However, the tall seating position and power-retractable running boards could be tiring for shorter drivers.

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 was outdated, with slow response times and subpar voice-recognition technology, diminishing the overall tech experience.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner received a significant tech upgrade with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system included Amazon Alexa, Bluetooth connectivity, and various subscription services. Despite these advancements, the 4Runner's tech still lagged behind competitors, with a smaller screen and less intuitive navigation. The real technological strengths of the 4Runner lay in its off-road capabilities, with advanced features like CRAWL control and Multi-Terrain Select.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came standard with 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 subpar ratings from IIHS.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner benefited from Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), which included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, and automatic high beams. The 4Runner also had eight standard airbags. NHTSA awarded the 4Runner four out of five stars overall, with a three-star rating in the rollover test. IIHS gave the 4Runner good ratings in most crash tests but a marginal rating in the small overlap front: driver-side test. The adaptive cruise control worked well, but the high center of gravity and imprecise steering made a more active lane-keeping assist system desirable.