2021 Jeep Cherokee vs 2020 Nissan Rogue

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL trim levels, offered a straightforward choice between front-wheel drive (FWD) and 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. However, the bold V-Motion grille and exaggerated fender swells were a bit much for some tastes. Inside, the Rogue’s age showed through its older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces. Yet, the padded center console sides were a thoughtful touch for driver comfort.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee’s styling had improved over time, though the short grille and swept-back headlights remained divisive. The exterior look varied significantly with trim levels, from the basic Latitude with 17-inch wheels to the more refined 80th Anniversary Edition with 19-inch Granite Crystal wheels and painted lower body cladding. Jeep’s expertise in roof design was evident with the Cherokee’s optional panoramic sunroof. The Cherokee stood out in a crowded SUV market, bearing a resemblance to the larger Grand Cherokee, especially from the front.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue featured 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. The CVT managed the power well, 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 real-world testing yielded only 24.9 mpg. The Rogue’s ride and handling benefited from Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the overall driving experience was hampered by lifeless steering, poor suspension isolation, and CVT drone.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee offered three engine choices: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 180 horsepower, a 3.2-liter V-6 with 271 horsepower, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The V-6 and turbo-four provided decent acceleration, with 0-60 mph times around 7.2 and 7.4 seconds, respectively. All engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, which had improved over time. The Cherokee’s off-road capabilities, especially in the Trailhawk model, were impressive, thanks to features like Jeep Active Drive Lock and Selec-Speed Crawl Control. While FWD was available, most buyers preferred the AWD models for better performance and capability.

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 comfortable with excellent thigh support and a good backrest angle, enhanced by the panoramic sunroof and rear air conditioning vents. Cargo space was a strong point, with 39 cubic feet behind the rear seats and additional underfloor storage compartments, making it more spacious than competitors like the Mazda CX-5.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee, positioned between the Renegade and Grand Cherokee, fell short in cargo space with 26 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 55 cubic feet with them folded. This was less than competitors like the Mazda CX-5 and Ford Escape. The Cherokee offered about 102 cubic feet of passenger volume, making it competitive in its class. The interior layout varied by trim level, from the basic Latitude with rubberized plastic to the upscale Trailhawk with suede inserts and the Latitude Lux with perforated Nappa leather. The overall design was simple and functional, focusing on practicality rather than luxury.

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 Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and remote access. However, the 7-inch touchscreen was outdated, with slow response times and subpar voice recognition, detracting from the overall tech experience.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee featured the Uconnect infotainment system, praised for its user-friendly interface and climate control integration. Available with 7-inch or 8.4-inch touchscreens, the system supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G WiFi hotspot. Remote start was also available. The Uconnect system was consistent across Stellantis brands, providing a reliable and familiar experience for users.

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 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 NHTSA and no Top Safety Pick designation from IIHS due to issues with headlights and front-passenger protection.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee received top “Good” scores in most IIHS crashworthiness categories but did not earn a Top Safety Pick award due to headlight performance. NHTSA gave it a four-star overall rating. Standard safety features included lane departure warning, forward collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was available only on higher trims.