2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Hyundai Venue

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL trims, offered a straightforward design with a single engine and transmission choice, and options for front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The test model featured the SL trim with front-drive, SL Premium Package, and additional accessories, totaling $34,870. 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 was more evident with its waterfall control panel and older styling themes, while the plastic surfaces were unimpressive. However, the padded center console sides were a thoughtful touch for driver comfort.

The 2021 Hyundai Venue, on the other hand, was a stylish little crossover that seemed timeless. Its upright stance, horizontal roofline, and steep tailgate gave it a substantial appearance despite its compact size. The grille was appropriately sized, drawing attention without overwhelming the design. Roof rails and wide-spaced letters spelling "Venue" added to its charm. The Venue's exterior saw minimal changes from 2020 to 2021, with alloy wheels replacing steel ones on the base SE trim, and 17-inch alloys standard on SEL and Denim trims. The top-line Denim trim, with its unique paint job and white roof, was particularly eye-catching, while the SEL trim offered great value with standard features previously part of an extra-cost package. Inside, the Venue used inexpensive materials but managed to avoid feeling spartan, with plenty of light entering the cabin and modern styling.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue was equipped with 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 made the most of the available power, but 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 models, but testing revealed a lower 24.9 mpg. The Rogue's ride and handling benefited from Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but it wasn't particularly fun to drive. The steering was lifeless and heavy, and the suspension lacked isolation, making the Rogue more of a vehicle to endure than enjoy.

The 2021 Hyundai Venue featured a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 121 horsepower and 113 pound-feet of torque. This small, economical engine was paired with a CVT, as the six-speed manual was discontinued for 2021. The Venue's 2,612-pound weight allowed it to feel sprightly in lower-speed areas, despite the modest power output. Front-wheel drive was the only option, with a selectable drive mode for snowy conditions. While not thrilling, the Venue's powertrain was adequate for its size, offering a lively feel when pulling away from a stoplight.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's front seats, though featuring Nissan's Zero Gravity design, were somewhat undersized and challenging for taller drivers to adjust for comfort. The back seat, however, offered excellent thigh support, a proper backrest angle, and a great view, enhanced by the panoramic sunroof. Rear passengers enjoyed air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. In-cabin storage was limited, but cargo space was generous, with 39 cubic feet behind the back seat and additional underfloor storage and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

The 2021 Hyundai Venue provided ample headroom and legroom in the front seats, with decent storage options, including a tray for small items. The back seat was tighter, with limited legroom for adults on longer drives, though headroom was sufficient. Cargo space was limited, with 18.7 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 31.9 cubic feet with it folded, lagging behind competitors. The Venue offered extra ground clearance but less cargo volume than rivals like the Nissan Kicks, Toyota C-HR, and Ford EcoSport.

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 remote access and emergency SOS calling. However, the 7-inch touchscreen was outdated, with slow response times and subpar voice recognition, detracting from the overall tech experience.

The 2021 Hyundai Venue boasted an 8-inch touchscreen with high resolution and quick swipe functionality. Physical buttons provided easy access to media and settings, and the interface was designed for simplicity. The infotainment system allowed for driver profiles and included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Venue's tech features were impressive for its price, with thoughtful details like classic tube-amp-style radio displays.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with standard Safety Shield 360, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and more. Additional options included a surround-view camera and ProPilot Assist. However, the Rogue's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA and issues with headlights and front-passenger protection in IIHS testing.

The 2021 Hyundai Venue offered standard automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and driver-attention warning, with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert on higher trims. The Venue's ADAS were well-integrated, avoiding distractions. In crash tests, the Venue received four out of five stars for driver-side and passenger-side front collisions and rollover from NHTSA.