2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe

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, SL Premium Package, carpeted floor and cargo mats, and a first-aid kit, was priced at $34,870, including a $1,095 destination charge. Despite its age, the Rogue remained attractive with its bold V-Motion grille and 19-inch aluminum wheels. However, the interior 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 Hyundai Santa Fe impressed with its value. Available with two new gasoline engines and a gas-electric hybrid powertrain, the Santa Fe offered a range of trims from SE to Calligraphy, with pricing from $26,850 to $39,950 MSRP. The Calligraphy trim, tested with Stormy Sea paint, AWD, 19-inch wheels, and Black premium leather, was a steal at $43,590. The interior exuded quality with a high-tech 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a panoramic glass sunroof. The exterior, however, was an acquired taste with some discordant asymmetry in its design.

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 merely adequate. The CVT did a good job of making the most of the available power, but the Rogue disappointed during 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 lower 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 Hyundai Santa Fe offered three new powertrains. The SE and SEL trims came with a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid models combined a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder with an electric drive motor, producing a total of 226 hp. The Limited and Calligraphy trims featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed wet-plate dual-clutch transmission. The Santa Fe's driving modes included Normal, Sport, and Smart, with the latter focusing on fuel efficiency. The turbocharged engine offered impressive performance, with the EPA rating both powertrains at 24 mpg in combined driving. Testing showed an average of 22.4 mpg in Smart mode. The Santa Fe excelled in driving dynamics, offering a solid, refined, and athletic experience.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior space was a mixed bag. The seats, though featuring Nissan's Zero Gravity design, were somewhat undersized, and finding a comfortable driving position was challenging for taller drivers. The back seat, however, was a highlight, offering excellent thigh support, a proper backrest angle, and a great view, especially with the panoramic glass sunroof. Rear passengers also benefited from air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. Cargo space was generous, with 39 cubic feet behind the back seat and additional underfloor storage compartments.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe excelled in interior comfort and space. All trims featured dual-zone automatic climate control, with stain-resistant fabric seats in lower trims and leather in higher trims. The Calligraphy trim offered luxurious touches like a suede-like headliner and premium Nappa leather. The front seats were highly adjustable, with heated and ventilated options in higher trims. The rear seat provided ample legroom and comfort, with air-conditioning vents, USB ports, and sunshades. The Santa Fe's cargo space was 36.4 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 72.1 cubic feet with them folded down, making it suitable for family road trips.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included Bluetooth connectivity, 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. However, the 7-inch touchscreen interface was outdated, with slow response times and subpar voice-recognition technology, diminishing the overall tech experience.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy was packed with technology, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a surround-view camera system, and an 8.5-inch head-up display. The basic 8-inch touchscreen offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the 10.25-inch screen provided wired versions, upgraded voice recognition, and enhanced Blue Link connected services. The Harman Kardon surround-sound system was available with the larger screen. Blue Link offered a range of connected services, including remote engine start and climate control adjustments. The Santa Fe also featured Digital Key and Remote Smart Parking Assist, adding convenience and modernity to the tech suite.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with 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 Rear Door Alert and Tire Fill Alert. Optional safety features included a surround-view camera and ProPilot Assist adaptive cruise control. However, the Rogue's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star overall rating from the NHTSA and some dings from the IIHS.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe offered an extensive list of safety features, especially in the Calligraphy trim. The forward-collision warning system included pedestrian, cyclist, and junction turning assistance. Safe Exit Assist used blind-spot monitoring to prevent occupants from opening doors into traffic. The rear-occupant alert system, available in ultrasonic form, detected movement inside the vehicle for up to 24 hours. The Blind-Spot View Monitor provided video views of the SUV's sides during lane changes. Highway Driving Assist combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centering technology. The Santa Fe earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS when equipped with LED projector headlights.