2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 INFINITI QX80

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 featured the SL trim with front-drive, the SL Premium Package, and additional accessories, totaling $34,870. Despite its age, the Rogue maintained an attractive appearance, highlighted by its bold V-Motion grille and 19-inch aluminum wheels. However, the interior design showed its age with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces. The padded center console sides were a thoughtful touch for driver comfort.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 reflected a blend of Nissan Armada and Infiniti styling elements, with a body-on-frame construction that set it apart from many modern SUVs. The QX80's front-end styling, introduced in 2018, featured a distinctive grille and headlight design, giving it an assertive yet not overly aggressive look. Standard LED headlights, taillights, and fog lights, along with 20-inch wheels on the base Luxe trim and 22-inch wheels on higher trims, added to its appeal. The interior, while luxurious with wood trim and leather upholstery, closely resembled the Armada, which might disappoint those seeking exclusivity.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue was powered by 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, and the Sport driving mode did little to enhance its performance. The CVT managed the power well, but the Rogue struggled during freeway acceleration, passing, and climbing grades, often responding with noise rather than action. Fuel economy was also disappointing, achieving only 24.9 mpg in testing compared to the EPA's 29 mpg estimate. The Rogue's ride and handling were improved by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but it still lacked driving enjoyment due to lifeless steering and occasional CVT drone.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 featured a 5.6-liter V8 engine producing 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with 4WD available as an option. The V8 provided responsive performance, making highway overtaking stress-free, though transmission shifts could have been smoother. The QX80's body-on-frame construction, combined with independent suspension and Hydraulic Body Motion Control on Sensory models, delivered a comfortable ride with minimal body roll. However, the QX80 felt less composed in corners and exhibited some shudders over bumps. Its 8,500-pound towing capacity and off-road capabilities were notable, though its size and wheel-and-tire combinations limited its off-road prowess.

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. Rear passengers, however, enjoyed high seat cushions, excellent thigh support, and a panoramic sunroof, making it a comfortable space for both children and adults. In-cabin storage was limited, but the cargo area offered 39 cubic feet of space, underfloor storage compartments, and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system, providing ample utility.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 came standard with a seven-seat configuration, with an optional eight-seat setup. Front seats offered 10-way and 8-way adjustments, but lacked thigh support for long trips. Passenger space was competitive, with even the third row accommodating adults comfortably. Second-row captain’s chairs included a large console with storage and USB ports, though third-row passengers lacked charging ports. Cargo space was 16.6 cubic feet with all seats in place, expanding to 95.1 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The power liftgate and power-folding third row added convenience, though overall storage space was less than some competitors.

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 premium sound system, and NissanConnect Services with features like remote engine start 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 INFINITI QX80 featured the InTouch dual-screen infotainment system with 8.0-inch and 7.0-inch touchscreens, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, WiFi hotspot, and navigation. Standard features included Bluetooth, SiriusXM, and a 13-speaker Bose audio system, with optional upgrades like a 17-speaker system and rear-seat entertainment. Despite the array of controls, the user interface was confusing, and the screens were small and hard to reach. The Smart Rearview Mirror and Around View Monitor added useful driving aids, enhancing the tech package.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with standard Safety Shield 360, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. Additional features included Rear Door Alert and Tire Fill Alert. Optional ProPilot Assist offered adaptive cruise control and lane-centering, though it felt dated. The Rogue received a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA, with a concerning 3-star rating for driver protection in frontal impacts. IIHS ratings were also less than stellar, preventing a Top Safety Pick designation.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 received a four-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with five stars for side crashes, four stars for frontal crashes, and a three-star rollover rating. IIHS had not tested the QX80. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and Backup Collision Intervention, providing a comprehensive safety suite.