2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Ford Edge

The 2020 Nissan Rogue was available in S, SV, and SL trim levels, offering a straightforward choice between front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). The test model featured the SL trim with front-drive, the SL Premium Package, and additional accessories, totaling $34,870. Despite its age, the Rogue maintained an attractive appearance, highlighted by its bold V-Motion grille and 19-inch aluminum wheels. However, the interior design showed its age with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces. A thoughtful touch was the padded center console sides for driver comfort.

The 2021 Ford Edge retained its styling from a 2019 refresh, aligning its exterior with modern Ford designs. The Edge offered a cleaner look compared to competitors like the Chevy Blazer. The Titanium model featured chrome accents, while the ST trim boasted a blacked-out grille and 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Edge's design felt dated, with awkward tweaks for new features like a larger touchscreen. The Titanium model included leather upholstery, and the ST model offered sporty seats with contrast stitching.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue featured a single engine option: a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Weighing up to 3,671 pounds, the Rogue's powertrain was adequate but not sporty, even with a Sport driving mode. The CVT managed power well, but acceleration was lacking, especially in demanding situations like freeway merging or mountain climbing. The EPA estimated 29 mpg for FWD models, but testing showed only 24.9 mpg. The Rogue's ride and handling benefited from Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the driving experience was marred by lifeless steering and CVT drone.

The 2021 Ford Edge offered a 2.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder engine with 250 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Edge ST performance model featured a 335-horsepower 2.7-liter V6 with standard AWD and model-specific suspension tuning. The Edge ST aimed to compete with performance SUVs like the Porsche Macan, though it fell short of such comparisons. The Edge's towing capacity ranged from 3,958 to 4,525 pounds, depending on the model, but competitors like the Honda Passport offered higher capacities.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior posed challenges for taller drivers, with limited seat height adjustment and space for longer legs. The rear seats, however, offered excellent comfort and visibility, enhanced by a panoramic sunroof and rear air conditioning vents. Cargo space was a strong point, with 39 cubic feet available behind the rear seats and additional underfloor storage. The Divide-n-Hide cargo management system added utility.

The 2021 Ford Edge excelled in interior space, offering the most rear-seat headroom among midsize crossovers and competitive legroom. Cargo space was generous, with 39.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 73.4 cubic feet with them folded. A foot-activated power liftgate was available on higher trims. The center console featured a rotary shift knob, but storage space was average due to the console's narrow width.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a hands-free text messaging assistant. Upgrades offered SiriusXM, navigation, a Bose sound system, and NissanConnect Services with features like remote engine start and collision notification. However, the 7-inch touchscreen and slow response times detracted from the experience.

The 2021 Ford Edge featured the Sync 4 infotainment system with a 12-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The Edge ST included a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system. The system's simple graphics and menu layouts were user-friendly, and the Edge offered four USB ports, including two rear USB ports added for 2021.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with standard Safety Shield 360, including features like forward-collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included a surround-view camera and ProPilot Assist. However, the Rogue's safety ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA and no Top Safety Pick designation from IIHS.

The 2021 Ford Edge was an IIHS Top Safety Pick, with top ratings in crash tests and front crash prevention. NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall rating. The Edge included Ford Co-Pilot360 features like blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking. Adaptive cruise control and Evasive Steering Assist were standard on most trims.