2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Honda CR-V

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL trim levels, offered a straightforward choice with a single engine and transmission combination, and the option of front-wheel drive (FWD) or 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 remained attractive, featuring a bold V-Motion grille and exaggerated fender swells. The SL’s 19-inch aluminum wheels added to its appeal.

However, the interior revealed the Rogue’s age, with an outdated waterfall control panel and rounded forms. The plastic surfaces were unimpressive, though the padded sides of the center console were a thoughtful touch for driver comfort.

The 2021 Honda CR-V, while similar in appearance to other compact crossovers, had a few distinguishing features like its grille and chromed plastic accents. The CR-V was available in eight colors, though many were shades of gray, black, or white, with vibrant options like Aegean Blue Metallic and Radiant Red Metallic limited to higher trims. The interior offered black, gray, and ivory cloth or leather, with wood panels and chrome accents in higher trims. The seats were angular and modern, providing a more contemporary look compared to some competitors.

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 the power well, but the Rogue struggled with 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 showed a disappointing 24.9 mpg. The Rogue’s ride and handling were improved by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but it wasn’t particularly fun to drive, with lifeless steering and occasional CVT drone.

The 2021 Honda CR-V, equipped with a 190-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, offered smooth and steady acceleration, reaching 60 mph in about 7.8 seconds. The CR-V’s CVT held engine revs constant as speed increased, lacking engagement compared to competitors with conventional transmissions. FWD was standard, with AWD as an option. The CR-V’s unitized body structure and MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension provided decent handling and ride quality, consistent with other vehicles in its class.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue’s interior was less accommodating for taller drivers, with undersized Zero Gravity seats and limited adjustability. The back seat, however, was comfortable with high cushions, good thigh support, and a panoramic sunroof. Rear passengers enjoyed excellent visibility, air conditioning vents, and USB charging ports. Cargo space was generous, with 39 cubic feet behind the back seat, underfloor storage compartments, and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in interior space, with 102.9 cubic feet of passenger volume and 75.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. The tailgate varied by trim, with manual, power, and hands-free options. Roof rails were standard only on the top Touring trim. The CR-V’s design prioritized comfort and practicality, fitting five people and their gear comfortably.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue’s infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a hands-free text messaging assistant. Higher trims offered SiriusXM, navigation, a Bose sound system, and NissanConnect Services with features like remote access and emergency SOS. However, the 7-inch touchscreen was outdated, with slow response and subpar voice recognition.

The 2021 Honda CR-V’s base LX trim had a 5-inch screen with Bluetooth, while other trims featured a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SMS text messaging. The audio system ranged from a 180-watt system with six speakers to a 300-watt system with a subwoofer in the Touring trim. Charging ports were plentiful, with USB ports in the front and second row, and a wireless phone charger in the Touring trim.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue included Safety Shield 360 with 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 ProPilot Assist offered adaptive cruise control with lane-centering. However, the Rogue’s crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA and lower scores from IIHS.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in safety, earning a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. Standard Honda Sensing features included a multi-angle rearview camera, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, road departure mitigation, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and auto high-beam headlamps. Blind spot monitoring was standard from the EX trim up.