2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Kia Sorento

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, SL Premium Package, carpeted floor and cargo mats, and a first-aid kit, was priced at $34,870, including a $1,095 destination charge. Despite its age, the Rogue remained attractive with 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.

In contrast, the 2021 Kia Sorento represented a significant design leap forward from its predecessor. The new model featured a more athletic and muscular silhouette, with the SX Prestige trim and X-Line package adding roof rails and a shark fin antenna. The front showcased an expansive tiger-nose grille and distinctive headlights, while the side included a silver accent for added visual interest. The rear design, with its vertical taillights, looked modern and cohesive. Inside, the Sorento was filled with high-value features, including heated outside mirrors, second-row air vents, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and keyless entry. The interior materials, especially the perforated leather in the SX Prestige, exceeded expectations in comfort and quality.

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 impressive. The CVT managed the power well, but the vehicle struggled during freeway acceleration, passing, and climbing grades, often responding with noise rather than action. The EPA estimated a combined fuel economy of 29 mpg for FWD versions, 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 marred by lifeless steering and occasional CVT drone.

The 2021 Kia Sorento offered a range of powertrains, with the most common being a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. However, the test car featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) and AWD. This setup provided ample power for merging, cruising, and passing. The Sorento also offered a hybrid version with a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine and electric motor. The AWD system included torque vectoring and a center-locking differential, enhancing traction and stability. The suspension, with McPherson struts up front and a multi-link setup in the rear, delivered a smooth and comfortable ride. Various drive modes, including Eco, Normal, and Sport, allowed for tailored driving experiences.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior space was a mixed bag. The seats, though featuring Nissan's Zero Gravity design, were somewhat undersized and challenging to adjust for taller drivers. The back seat, however, offered excellent comfort with high seat cushions, good thigh support, and a proper backrest angle. Rear passengers also benefited from a panoramic sunroof, air conditioning vents, and USB charging ports. Cargo space was a strong point, with 39 cubic feet available behind the back seat, underfloor storage compartments, and a standard Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

The 2021 Kia Sorento, particularly in upper trims, was best considered a four-seater due to the tight third-row space. The second-row captain's chairs were very comfortable, and both front and rear seats provided ample legroom. Cargo space behind the third row was limited to 12.6 cubic feet, but folding the seats expanded the capacity. The Sorento offered practical storage solutions, including a phone spot with optional wireless charging, cupholders, and a decent-sized center console. Total cargo volume was 75.5 cubic feet, comparable to compact crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a hands-free text messaging assistant. Depending on the trim, upgrades included SiriusXM satellite radio, navigation, a Bose premium sound system, and NissanConnect Services. However, the 7-inch touchscreen interface was outdated, with slow response times and subpar voice-recognition technology, diminishing the overall tech experience.

The 2021 Kia Sorento featured an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 10.25-inch screen on higher trims. The larger screen looked fantastic but required a physical connection for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system had some quirks, such as redundant information on the screen when using Android Auto. The Sorento offered plenty of USB ports but lacked USB-C options. The optional Bose stereo was decent but not exceptional. The navigation system needed improvement, particularly in voice search and Point-of-Interest functions.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with standard Safety Shield 360, which included 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 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 some dings from IIHS.

The 2021 Kia Sorento boasted a comprehensive array of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, driver-attention warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-departure warning, lane-following assist, and auto high beams. The test car also had a surround-view camera and adaptive cruise control. The NHTSA awarded the Sorento four out of five stars overall, while the IIHS gave it a Top Safety Pick designation, with the SX trim levels receiving perfect scores for their LED headlights.