2021 Hyundai Tucson vs 2020 Nissan Rogue

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL trim levels, offered a straightforward choice with a single engine and transmission combination, and options for 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 maintained an attractive appearance, especially with the SL’s 19-inch aluminum wheels, though the V-Motion grille and fender swells were somewhat exaggerated. Inside, the Rogue’s age showed through its older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces, though the padded center console sides were a thoughtful touch.

In contrast, the 2021 Hyundai Tucson featured a more conventional design, appealing to those who preferred a traditional look over futuristic aesthetics. The Tucson’s upright layout provided a commanding view of the road, and its modern, attractive dash design seamlessly integrated tech features. The Tucson was available in SE, Value, SEL, Sport, Limited, and Ultimate trims, each adding progressively more features. The base SE trim included 17-inch alloy wheels and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims added features like LED headlights, power-adjustable seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof, making the Tucson a well-rounded choice.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with a single powertrain: 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 performance was merely adequate. While the CVT made the most of the available power, the Rogue struggled during freeway acceleration, passing, and climbing grades, often responding with noise rather than action. The EPA estimated 29 mpg in combined driving for FWD versions, but real-world testing yielded only 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 vehicle still lacked fun-to-drive dynamics due to lifeless steering and occasional CVT drone.

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson offered two engine options: a base 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 161 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque, and a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine available on higher trims, delivering 181 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and offered FWD or AWD. The base engine felt underwhelming, especially at higher speeds, while the 2.4-liter engine provided a livelier performance around town. The Tucson’s ride was comfortable and refined, striking a balance between softness and athleticism. The Tucson could tow up to 1,500 pounds with the base engine and 2,000 pounds with the 2.4-liter engine, adding to its versatility.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue’s interior space was a mixed bag. The front seats, though featuring Nissan’s Zero Gravity design, were somewhat undersized and difficult to adjust for taller drivers. The rear seats, however, were more comfortable, offering high seating positions, excellent thigh support, and a good backrest angle. The panoramic sunroof and rear air conditioning vents added to the rear-seat comfort. In-cabin storage was limited, but the cargo area was generous, with 39 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, underfloor storage compartments, and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson provided 31 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 61.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. While this was on the lower side for the segment, it was adequate for most needs. The Tucson’s front seats offered solid headroom and legroom, with comfortable and supportive seating even on long trips. The rear seats were less spacious but still accommodating for adults. The Tucson also featured numerous cubbies and compartments for storage, including helpful trays for the driver’s essentials.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue’s infotainment system included Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a hands-free text messaging assistant. Higher trims offered upgrades like SiriusXM satellite radio, navigation, a Bose premium sound system, and NissanConnect Services. However, the 7-inch touchscreen interface was dated, with slow response times and subpar voice-recognition technology, detracting from the overall tech experience.

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Ultimate trim offered an upgraded 8-inch touchscreen, which was also optional on other trims. The touchscreen was user-friendly, with logical menu layouts and helpful hard buttons. Additional available features included navigation, satellite radio, and wireless device charging, enhancing the Tucson’s tech appeal.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue included the Safety Shield 360 suite as standard, featuring forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additional safety features included a Rear Door Alert and a Tire Fill Alert system. Optional features were 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 no Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS.

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson offered a solid list of standard driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and driver drowsiness monitoring. Higher trims added features like adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, automatic high-beams, a 360-degree parking monitor, and blind-spot monitoring. The Tucson earned a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, reflecting its strong safety credentials.