2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 BMW X5

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, though the padded center console sides were a thoughtful touch.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW X5 exemplified high-quality craftsmanship typical of BMW. The X5’s design, from the kidney grille to the body shape, was unmistakably BMW, though it risked blending in with other BMWs. The X5 featured full adaptive LED headlights and various trim options, including the sporty M Sport styling. The interior, while sharing many elements with other BMW models, was not shoddy, offering plenty of leather and soft-touch materials. However, the abundance of black plastic was prone to collecting dust and liquid spots.

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. The CVT managed to make 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 were improved by 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 2021 BMW X5 offered multiple powertrain options, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base X5 sDrive40i/xDrive40i featured a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine delivering 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The X5 M50i boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, while the X5 M reached 600 hp, or 617 hp with the Competition Package. The new X5 xDrive45e plug-in hybrid achieved 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, with up to 30 miles of all-electric range. The X5’s power made it capable but not always inspiring, with steering dynamics that sometimes felt out of step with BMW’s reputation. The cabin was quiet, and the suspension absorbed road imperfections well. Charging the X5 xDrive45e was convenient, and the EPA estimated a combined range of about 400 miles.

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, was comfortable with high seat cushions, good thigh support, and a proper backrest angle, making it a preferred spot for passengers. The Rogue offered 39 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat, with additional underfloor storage and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

The 2021 BMW X5 made good use of space, with front cupholders positioned out of the way and a wireless phone charging pad. The front seats were comfortable for short trips but felt hard after a few hours. The rear seats were spacious enough for kids and two adults, with an optional third row available. The climate controls were easy to manage, and the split liftgate with full power functionality made loading cargo easy. The X5’s cargo area was spacious, though slightly less so in the xDrive45e model. Moving children and cargo in and out of the second row was somewhat challenging due to the narrow door openings.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue’s infotainment system included Bluetooth, 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 BMW X5 came with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, and more. Optional features included remote start, a head-up display, massaging seats, and premium audio systems. The BMW iDrive system required some acclimation but was user-friendly once familiar.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue featured 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 Rear Door Alert and Tire Fill Alert system. Optional safety features were a surround-view camera and ProPilot Assist adaptive cruise control. The Rogue received a 4-star overall rating from the NHTSA and had mixed results from the IIHS.

The 2021 BMW X5 came with standard safety features like blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and more. The Driving Assistance Professional Package included adaptive cruise control with stop and go functionality, but it had issues with lane-keeping and reacting to stopped traffic. The X5 received nearly all Good ratings from the IIHS and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA.