2021 Lexus RX vs 2020 Nissan Rogue

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 maintained an attractive appearance 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.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus RX showcased a modern design aesthetic with a large grille, angular headlamps, a shapely body, and a floating roof. The interior featured sumptuous seating, perforated leather upholstery, and a somewhat bland center console. Lexus offered the RX in five variants: RX, RX F Sport, RXL, RX Hybrid, and RXL Hybrid, each catering to different preferences. The RX's exterior upgrades included 20-inch split five-spoke wheels, triple-beam LED headlights, and a windshield wiper de-icer. The F Sport Appearance package added sporty elements like 20-inch F Sport wheels and unique fascia, enhancing the vehicle's appeal.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue was powered by 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, and the Sport driving mode did little to enhance its performance. The CVT managed to make the most of the available power, but the Rogue struggled during 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 were improved by brake-induced technologies like 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 Lexus RX, RXL, and RX F-Sport were equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX 350 FWD was the most fuel-efficient, with EPA ratings of 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined. The RX Hybrid models, powered by a 3.5-liter V6 and three electric motors, delivered 308 horsepower and managed 29-31 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. The RX's suspension and handling adjustments made it more dynamic, with AWD providing a planted feel in corners. The F Sport Handling package added adaptive variable suspension and other sporty features. The RX's top speed was limited to 124 mph, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.7-7.9 seconds, depending on the drivetrain.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior space was a mixed bag. The seats, though featuring Nissan's Zero Gravity cushion designs, were somewhat undersized and lacked adjustability for taller drivers. The back seat, however, offered excellent thigh support, a proper backrest angle, and a great view, making it a comfortable spot for passengers. Cargo space was a strong point, with 39 cubic feet behind the back seat and additional underfloor storage compartments, along with a standard Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

The 2021 Lexus RX excelled in functionality, seating five in the two-row models and six or seven in the three-row RXL variants. Front and second-row seating provided ample space, while the third row was tight. Cargo space in the RX was limited compared to traditional SUVs, with 18.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 56.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. The three-row RXL offered 7.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 23 cubic feet behind the second, and 58.5 cubic feet with both rows folded. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with a range of infotainment features, including Bluetooth connectivity, 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 and slow to respond, with subpar voice-recognition technology, diminishing the overall tech experience.

The 2021 Lexus RX offered a robust technology suite, including dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry, an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, voice recognition, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, satellite radio, HD Radio, a WiFi hot spot, six USB ports, and a nine-speaker sound system. Upgrades included a 12.3-inch touchscreen, additional USB ports, a moonroof, wireless charging, navigation, and a 15-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound system. The touchpad controller for the infotainment system was functional but not as refined as competitors, and the RX lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue featured the Safety Shield 360 suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additional safety features included a Rear Door Alert and Tire Fill Alert system. Optional safety tech 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 Lexus RX earned a Top Safety Pick designation from IIHS, with Good marks on crashworthiness tests. NHTSA rated the RX 350, RX 350L, and RX 450h with four out of five stars overall and five stars for side-impact crashworthiness. Standard safety features included a rearview camera, 10 airbags, enhanced vehicle stability control, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. The Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 suite added advanced driver-assist features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. However, the RX lacked the hands-off piloting tech found in some competitors.