2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL trim levels, offered a straightforward approach with a single engine and transmission combination, and a 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. Despite its age, the Rogue maintained an attractive appearance, especially with the SL’s 19-inch aluminum wheels. However, the interior design 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 Jeep Grand Cherokee, with its timeless design, continued to impress more than a decade after its debut. The Grand Cherokee balanced rugged utility and upscale sophistication, with big wheels and flared fenders contributing to its appealing look. The lineup ranged from the affordable Laredo and Limited trims to the upscale Overland and Summit, and performance models like the SRT and Trackhawk. The test vehicle, a Summit trim with a 5.7-liter V8 engine and 4WD, priced at $68,185, featured the Platinum Series Group and Signature Leather-Wrapped Interior Package, enhancing its premium look and feel. Inside, the Summit’s cabin boasted premium materials and a stylish color scheme, though some outdated elements indicated a need for a redesign.

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 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 disappointing 24.9 mpg. The Rogue’s ride and handling benefited from Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the overall driving experience was lackluster, with heavy steering and occasional CVT drone.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee came standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 295 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup allowed for a towing capacity of up to 6,200 pounds. For more power, the optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8 offered 360 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, with a best-in-class towing capacity of 7,200 pounds. The V8 also featured cylinder deactivation technology for improved fuel efficiency, though it achieved only 18.2 mpg during testing. The Grand Cherokee’s Quadra-Trac II 4WD system and Quadra-Lift air suspension provided excellent off-road capabilities and a smooth highway ride. Despite some bounciness in the city, the Grand Cherokee’s tight turning radius and effective brakes made it versatile for various driving conditions.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue’s interior posed challenges for taller drivers, with limited seat height adjustment and legroom. The seats, though somewhat undersized, featured Nissan’s Zero Gravity design and Quick Comfort heating. Rear passengers enjoyed high seat cushions, excellent thigh support, and a panoramic glass sunroof, making the back seat a preferred spot. 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.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit’s interior featured flat, firm, and supportive seats with eight-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The Signature Leather-Wrapped Interior Package added luxurious materials, though the controls for seat and steering wheel heating were embedded in the infotainment system, causing some distraction. Rear seat comfort was decent, though legroom was snug for taller adults. The optional rear-seat entertainment system added to the sense of claustrophobia, but large windows and a panoramic sunroof helped. Cargo space measured 36.3 cubic feet, with additional storage bins and a power liftgate. Folding the second-row seats was easy, expanding the cargo area to 68.3 cubic feet.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue’s infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a hands-free text messaging assistant. Upgrades offered SiriusXM satellite radio, navigation, a Bose premium 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, diminishing the overall tech experience.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s Uconnect 4C with Nav system provided a nearly flawless user experience, with fast response times, pleasing graphics, and separate stereo controls. Features included navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, and a Jeep Skill for Amazon Alexa. SiriusXM services offered satellite radio, Traffic Plus, Travel Link, and Guardian, with various free trial periods. The voice recognition technology worked well, and the Summit trim’s 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system delivered excellent sound quality. While the Grand Cherokee’s tech offerings were solid, the upcoming 2022 model promised significant advancements.

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-beam headlights. Additional features included a Rear Door Alert and Tire Fill Alert system. Optional safety 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 NHTSA and subpar ratings from IIHS.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s safety ratings were mixed. While the 4WD model received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, the 2WD model’s rating dropped to four stars due to a three-star rollover resistance rating. IIHS testing revealed "Marginal" and "Poor" ratings for small-overlap frontal-impact collisions. The Summit trim included the ProTech II Package with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additional features included a backup camera, parking sensors, and ParkSense parking assistance.