2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Lexus GX

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, though the padded center console sides were a thoughtful touch.

The 2021 Lexus GX 460 retained its decade-old body shell with updates like the spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights. The 2021 model didn't see any styling changes but added silver 18-inch wheels as standard on the Premium trim. The GX's tough, aggressive look was distinctive and appealing to SUV shoppers. However, the interior didn't meet modern luxury SUV standards, with wood trim that felt like plastic and an abundance of actual plastic. Standard leather upholstery was a plus, but the overall interior felt dated.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue featured 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. The CVT managed to make the most of the available power, 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 were improved by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the vehicle wasn't particularly fun to drive, with lifeless steering and occasional CVT drone.

The 2021 Lexus GX 460 was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The GX's 5,130-pound weight was evident at higher speeds, requiring careful planning for merging and overtaking. The ride quality was typical of a body-on-frame vehicle, lacking the refinement of unibody construction. However, the GX excelled in off-road capability with a Torsen center differential, low-range 4WD, and several driver aids like hill-descent control and hill-start assist. The optional Off-Road Package added features like a transmission cooler and multi-view camera system. The GX had a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior space was a mixed bag. The seats, though undersized, featured Nissan's Zero Gravity cushion designs and Quick Comfort heating. However, taller drivers struggled to find a comfortable position. The rear seats offered excellent thigh support, a proper backrest angle, and a great view, making them a preferred spot for passengers. In-cabin storage was limited, but the cargo area provided 39 cubic feet of space, with underfloor storage compartments and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

The 2021 Lexus GX's interior ergonomics showed its age, with an upright dashboard and high center console limiting legroom. The steering wheel's odd angle and the tall seating position felt bus-like. The dashboard shape and boxy profile provided excellent outward visibility, but forward visibility was limited by the tall hood. Storage space was limited, with small center-console bins and cupholders. The GX came standard with three rows of seating, but the third row was best for children and difficult to access. Cargo space was limited, with only 64.7 cubic feet available with the second and third rows folded.

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

The 2021 Lexus GX was light on tech features, with standard Bluetooth, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant connectivity, but no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The standard infotainment system had outdated graphics and limited functions. However, Lexus included analog controls for most functions, providing a refreshing alternative to screen-centric interfaces.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with the Safety Shield 360 collection, 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 included a surround-view camera and ProPilot Assist adaptive cruise control. The Rogue received a 4-star overall rating from the NHTSA and missed a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS due to issues with headlights and front-passenger protection.

The 2021 Lexus GX 460 included the Lexus Safety System+ bundle, with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, automatic high beams, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. However, the GX lacked some safety features available in other Lexus and Toyota models, such as traffic-sign recognition and Lane Tracing Assist.