2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid

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 vehicle, 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, though the V-Motion grille and fender swells were somewhat exaggerated. The 19-inch aluminum wheels on the SL trim added to its appeal. Inside, the Rogue's age showed with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces, though the padded center console sides were a thoughtful touch for driver comfort.

The 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid, introduced with a two-motor hybrid powertrain, retained the refreshed styling and improved interior storage from the previous year. It featured standard Honda Sensing safety technology and available wireless smartphone charging. The CR-V Hybrid looked similar to its gas-only counterparts, with subtle differences like "Hybrid" badges and blue Honda logos. The interior boasted unique instrumentation for battery-charge status and power distribution, with steering wheel paddles managing regenerative braking. Available in EX, EX-L, and Touring trims, all with standard AWD, the CR-V Hybrid ranged from $30,560 to $36,350. The Touring trim test vehicle, priced at $37,920, featured Platinum White Pearl paint and ivory leather, though the fake wood trim was less impressive.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue featured 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 adequate but not sporty, even with a Sport driving mode. The CVT managed power well, but acceleration for freeway merging or passing was underwhelming, often resulting in noise rather than action. 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, though it wasn't particularly fun to drive due to lifeless steering and occasional CVT drone.

The 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid combined a 2.0-liter gasoline engine with an electric assist motor and a generator/starter motor, producing 212 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque. It offered three driving modes—EV Drive, Hybrid Drive, and Engine Drive—automatically selected based on conditions, plus driver-selected Econ, Sport, and EV modes. The CR-V Hybrid's battery pack added 194 pounds, improving weight distribution and maintaining 8.2 inches of ground clearance. It delivered a smooth and enjoyable driving experience, though testing returned 33.7 mpg, below the EPA's 38 mpg estimate. The CR-V Hybrid's dynamics were honed for a pleasant drive, despite occasional droning under acceleration.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior posed challenges for taller drivers, with undersized seats and limited seat height adjustment. The rear seats, however, offered excellent comfort and visibility, with stadium-style seating, good thigh support, and a panoramic sunroof. Rear passengers enjoyed air conditioning vents and USB ports. Cargo space was generous, with 39 cubic feet behind the rear seats and additional underfloor storage and a Divide-n-Hide cargo system.

The 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid excelled in passenger and cargo space. The front seats provided long-lasting comfort with 12-way power adjustment and heated options, though the front passenger seat lacked height adjustment. The rear seats offered ample legroom and comfort, with air vents, USB ports, and a flat floor for three passengers. Interior storage was impressive, though the wireless charger took up space. Cargo capacity was 33.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, reduced by the battery pack, but still accommodating. Maximum cargo space was 68.7 cubic feet, less than the standard CR-V and the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.

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 Amazon Alexa and remote access. However, the 7-inch touchscreen was outdated, with slow response and subpar voice recognition, diminishing the tech experience.

The 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid's infotainment system, redesigned in 2017, featured a 7-inch touchscreen with a power/volume knob but lacked a tuning knob. The system was slow to start, and voice recognition was limited, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto preferable. The navigation display was cluttered, and HondaLink services were minimal. The Touring trim included a nine-speaker audio system, SiriusXM, and Pandora, with wireless charging as a space-consuming addition.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with Safety Shield 360, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and more. Additional features included Rear Door Alert and Tire Fill Alert. Options like a surround-view camera and ProPilot Assist were available, though the latter felt dated. The Rogue received a 4-star NHTSA rating, with a 3-star driver protection score, and missed a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS due to headlight and passenger protection issues.

The 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid featured Honda Sensing, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. The systems were smooth and accurate, though lacking in some advanced features. The CR-V Hybrid earned a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, ensuring strong safety credentials.