2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E vs 2020 Nissan Rogue

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL trim levels, offered a straightforward design with a single engine and transmission combination, and a choice between front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). The test car 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 revealed its age with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces, though it did include thoughtful touches like padded center console sides.

In contrast, the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E aimed to connect with the traditional Mustang through its exterior styling, featuring thin headlights, a long hood, and a vibrant color palette. The interior was dominated by a massive infotainment touchscreen, giving it a minimalist feel akin to Tesla's design. While the materials were of decent quality, the lack of a leather-upholstery option might have disappointed some buyers. Unique trim elements were available in the First Edition models, but the main appeal was their early production status.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue was equipped with a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). While the powertrain was adequate for everyday driving, it struggled during acceleration and uphill climbs, often responding with noise rather than action. The Rogue's fuel economy also fell short of expectations, achieving only 24.9 mpg in testing compared to the EPA's 29 mpg estimate. However, the Rogue's ride and handling were improved by brake-induced technologies like Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, though it still lacked driving excitement.

The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E, designed to live up to the Mustang name, offered a range of powertrain configurations. The base RWD Select model produced 266 horsepower, while the AWD GT Performance Edition boasted 480 hp and 634 lb-ft of torque, achieving zero to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds. The test car featured a mid-level AWD powertrain with 346 hp, reaching zero to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds. The Mach-E handled corners well, with responsive steering and a planted feel, though the ride quality suffered due to the taut suspension. Ford provided three drive modes and the option for one-pedal driving, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior space was a mixed bag. While the seats were somewhat undersized, they offered Quick Comfort heating. The driver's seat adjustment was limited, making it difficult for taller drivers to find a comfortable position. In contrast, the rear seats provided excellent support and visibility, making them a preferred spot for passengers. The Rogue excelled in cargo space, offering 39 cubic feet behind the back seat, along with underfloor storage compartments and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E, marketed as an SUV, had a packaging more akin to a station wagon or hatchback. The low driving position and roofline limited the sense of spaciousness, and it fell short of the Tesla Model Y in terms of interior space. The Mach-E offered 29.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the second row in place and a 4.7-cubic-foot front trunk. Ford managed to include a decent-sized storage bin and a wireless charging pad, enhancing practicality.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a hands-free text messaging assistant. Upgrades were available, such as SiriusXM satellite radio, navigation, and a Bose premium sound system. However, the NissanConnect interface was outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen that was slow to respond and voice-recognition technology that fell short.

The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E featured Ford's new Sync 4 infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and OTA updates. The 15.5-inch touchscreen was a standout feature, though its text-heavy design was not user-friendly. The bottom of the screen replaced analog controls, with touchscreen icons handling climate adjustments. The Mach-E also offered a nine-speaker B&O sound system on higher trims.

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

The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E's safety features included automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control with lane centering. The Mach-E was set to receive Active Drive Assist, allowing for hands-free driving on certain highways. While crash-test ratings were not yet available, the Mach-E's driver-assist features were comprehensive and effective.