2021 BMW X3 vs 2020 Nissan Rogue

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL trims, 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, featuring a bold V-Motion grille and 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.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, received updates in 2020, including a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. The X3's exterior resembled a downsized BMW X5, exuding a luxury presence. Inside, the X3 featured a cold, mechanical interior styling typical of BMW, which, while not as aesthetically pleasing as the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, offered a more functional dashboard. The X3 came in sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and xDrive30e plug-in hybrid trims, with the high-performance X3 M covered separately. Standard features included 18-inch alloy wheels, synthetic leather upholstery, and a 10.2-inch infotainment system, with numerous options for added luxury and convenience.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue was equipped 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, and while it had a Sport driving mode, it didn't enhance sportiness. The CVT managed the power well for everyday driving, 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 real-world testing yielded only 24.9 mpg. The Rogue's ride and handling benefited from Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but it wasn't particularly fun to drive, with lifeless steering and occasional CVT drone.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered a more dynamic performance. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i trims featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive30i had rear-wheel drive (RWD), while the xDrive30i came with all-wheel drive (AWD). The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid delivered 288 horsepower and brisk acceleration, with a 17-mile electric-only range and a 3.5-hour recharge time using a 240-volt Level 2 charger. For those seeking performance, the M40i trim boasted a 382-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six engine, offering robust acceleration and responsive cornering. The high-performance X3 M model featured a 473-horsepower engine, catering to speed enthusiasts needing family space.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior space was a mixed bag. The front seats, though featuring Nissan's Zero Gravity cushion designs, were somewhat undersized and lacked adjustability for taller drivers. The back seat, however, offered excellent thigh support, a proper backrest angle, and a high seating position, making it comfortable for adults and children alike. The panoramic glass sunroof, rear air conditioning vents, and USB charging ports added to the rear seat's appeal. Cargo space was a strong point, with 39 cubic feet behind the back seat, underfloor storage compartments, and a standard Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

The 2021 BMW X3 excelled in interior space and functionality. With the rear seats folded, it provided up to 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space, among the best in its segment. With the rear seats in use, it still offered a generous 28.7 cubic feet. A power liftgate was standard, with an optional hands-free power liftgate. The X3's cabin was spacious for all passengers, with ample headroom and legroom in the front row and adult-friendly rear seats. The driver and front passenger benefited from real buttons and dials complementing the main touchscreen, reducing the learning curve for new users.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a hands-free text messaging assistant. Depending on the trim, upgrades included SiriusXM satellite radio, navigation with door-to-door assistance, a Bose premium sound system, and NissanConnect Services. Subscription-based NissanConnect Services offered features like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, remote engine starting, and safe teen driver settings. However, the 7-inch touchscreen interface was outdated, with slow response times and subpar voice-recognition technology.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, known for its ease of use. The system combined touch operation with an iDrive dial in the center console, catering to different user preferences. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, with Android Auto as an option. Additional options included wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo system. The optional gesture control allowed basic controls through hand movements, though it could result in false positives for those who talk with their hands.

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 with lane-centering. However, the Rogue's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star overall rating from the NHTSA and issues with IIHS ratings for headlights and front-passenger protection.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with advanced driver-assistance features such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane departure warning. It also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front-and-rear parking sensors. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, headlights that bend with the road, and a head-up display.