2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Kia Sportage

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 with destination charges. 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.

In contrast, the 2021 Kia Sportage featured a design described by Kia as “Euro-focused,” with a tiger-nose grille and bulbous headlights. The two-row crossover SUV had a short wheelbase and overhangs, making it ideal for city driving. The headlights carried over from 2020, and the Sportage offered 17-, 18-, or 19-inch wheels. Inside, an 8-inch touchscreen display served as a stylish centerpiece, flanked by air vents and physical buttons for tuning and volume. The cabin, while not the most tech-forward, provided a pleasant environment with logical controls and a now-old Kia logo on the steering wheel.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with a single engine option: a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Weighing up to 3,671 pounds, the Rogue's powertrain 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 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 vehicle was not particularly fun to drive, with lifeless steering and occasional CVT drone.

The 2021 Kia Sportage offered more variety with its powertrains. The LX and EX trims featured a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. The SX Turbo trim boasted a 2.0-liter turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine with 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. All engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy for the 2.4-liter engine in FWD models was 23 mpg city, 30 highway, and 26 combined, while AWD models saw slightly lower figures. The turbocharged engine's fuel economy was lower, especially in AWD configurations. The Sportage's McPherson-strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension provided a smooth ride, and the SX Turbo trim offered a sporty driving experience, making it a rewarding crossover to drive.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior space was a mixed bag. The seats, though somewhat undersized, featured Nissan’s Zero Gravity cushion designs and Quick Comfort heating. However, taller drivers might struggle to find a comfortable driving position due to limited seat height adjustment. The rear seats were more accommodating, with high cushions, excellent thigh support, and a proper backrest angle. The panoramic glass sunroof, rear air conditioning vents, and USB charging ports made the back seat a pleasant place for passengers. Cargo space was a strong point, with 39 cubic feet behind the back seat and additional underfloor storage compartments.

The 2021 Kia Sportage, while on the smaller side of the compact crossover segment, offered good interior space. The SX Turbo trim provided a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and 8-way power adjustment for the passenger, along with heated and ventilated seats. Rear legroom and headroom were adequate, but cargo space was limited, with 30.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 60.1 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. This was less competitive compared to other compact crossovers.

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 level, upgrades included SiriusXM satellite radio, navigation, a Bose premium sound system, and NissanConnect Services. These services offered features like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, remote access, and safe teen driver settings. However, the 7-inch touchscreen interface was outdated, with slow response times and subpar voice-recognition technology, detracting from the overall tech experience.

The 2021 Kia Sportage featured an 8-inch touchscreen interface with Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and USB ports as standard. Most trims also included Kia’s UVO Link connected services. The SX Turbo trim added wireless charging and an eight-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system. The Sportage's technology was user-friendly, with logical menus, physical buttons, and handy knobs, providing a satisfying tech experience without frustration.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, 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 a Tire Fill Alert system. Optional safety features included a surround-view camera and ProPilot Assist adaptive cruise control. However, the Rogue's safety ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star overall rating from the NHTSA and some dings from the IIHS.

The 2021 Kia Sportage excelled in safety, with standard features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assist, automatic high beams, and a driver-monitoring system. The SX Turbo trim added adaptive cruise control. The Sportage earned a Top Safety Pick status from the IIHS and performed well in NHTSA crash tests.