2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Acura RDX

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 featured SL trim, front-drive, the SL Premium Package, carpeted floor and cargo mats, and a first-aid kit, totaling $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 2021 Acura RDX, especially with the optional A-Spec Package, was a visually appealing SUV. The A-Spec’s subtle yet effective styling changes conveyed sportiness without overpromising on performance. Acura avoided off-roading frippery, focusing on daily driving and road-tripping. The RDX A-Spec, priced at $47,625 with SH-AWD and extra-cost Platinum White paint, featured sport seats with simulated suede inserts, a sport steering wheel, and red ambient cabin lighting. The interior delivered a sporty look and feel with quality materials and a thick-rimmed steering wheel, though the gauge cluster’s red markings on a brushed silver background were hard to read.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with 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 did a good job of maximizing power, but the Rogue disappointed during freeway acceleration, passing, and climbing grades, responding with noise rather than action. The EPA estimated 29 mpg in combined driving for FWD versions, but testing showed no better than 24.9 mpg. The Rogue’s ride and handling benefited from Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but it wasn’t much fun to drive due to lifeless steering, lack of suspension isolation, and occasional CVT drone.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and front-wheel drive was standard, with the SH-AWD system available for improved handling. The SH-AWD system could deliver up to 70% of engine output to the rear wheels and 100% of that to either rear wheel, enhancing handling. The Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to choose between Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ modes, adjusting powertrain response, steering effort, and suspension firmness. The RDX A-Spec, with Shark Gray 20-inch alloy wheels and performance all-season tires, offered rewarding driving dynamics, though it could benefit from adaptive dampers and rev-matching in Sport+ mode.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue’s interior space was a mixed bag. The seats, though undersized, featured Nissan’s Zero Gravity cushion designs and Quick Comfort heating. However, taller drivers struggled to find a comfortable position due to limited seat height adjustment. Rear passengers enjoyed high seat cushions, excellent thigh support, and a panoramic sunroof. In-cabin storage was lacking, but cargo space was generous with 39 cubic feet behind the back seat, underfloor storage compartments, and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

The 2021 Acura RDX offered remarkable passenger and cargo space for a compact SUV. The front seats, with A-Spec trim, provided 12-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation, ensuring comfort during spirited driving. Rear-seat comfort was compromised by a low and flat cushion and excessive seatback recline angle, leading to a slouched seating position. Storage space was limited, but the cargo area was accommodating with 29.5 cubic feet behind the rear seat and additional storage compartments. Folding the rear seats increased cargo capacity to 58.9 cubic feet, competitive but not class-leading.

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.

The 2021 Acura RDX introduced the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which used a touch-sensing pad on the center console instead of a touchscreen. While TTI mirrored the screen for more intuitive control, it still required a learning curve and could be distracting. The RDX included physical knobs and buttons for stereo and climate controls, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and home voice assistant technology. The A-Spec trim featured a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D premium audio system, delivering excellent sound quality.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with the Safety Shield 360 collection, including 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 no Top Safety Pick designation from IIHS.

The 2021 Acura RDX included AcuraWatch, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were available with the Technology Package. The RDX earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, though it received four-star ratings for frontal-impact and rollover resistance.