2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Lincoln Aviator

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL trims, offered a straightforward design with a single engine and transmission choice, and options for front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The SL trim, which was tested, included the SL Premium Package and additional features, totaling $34,870. Despite its age, the Rogue maintained an attractive appearance, highlighted by its bold V-Motion grille and 19-inch aluminum wheels. However, the interior revealed its dated design with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces. A positive aspect was the padded center console sides, providing comfort for drivers.

In contrast, the 2021 Lincoln Aviator embraced a distinct design, avoiding imitation of its rivals. It carried forward the successful styling of the Navigator, featuring sharp lines and chrome accents. The Aviator's interior was a testament to comfort and warmth, with soft-touch materials and a 10.1-inch touchscreen dominating the dash. The piano button shifter added a unique touch, and the soothing chimes enhanced the luxurious feel. The Aviator offered various trims, each with increasing levels of luxury and technology, culminating in the Grand Touring Black Label with nearly every optional feature as standard.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue was equipped with a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a CVT, which was adequate for its 3,671-pound weight. While the CVT maximized power, the Rogue struggled with acceleration, especially during freeway merging or passing. The EPA estimated 29 mpg for FWD models, but real-world testing showed only 24.9 mpg. The Rogue's ride and handling were improved by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but it lacked driving excitement due to lifeless steering and CVT drone.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator offered a more powerful experience with its 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. The Grand Touring trims added a plug-in hybrid configuration, boosting output to 494 hp and 630 lb-ft of torque, with a 21-mile electric range. The Aviator excelled in highway driving, though its size made city maneuvering challenging. The drive mode selector included unique options like "Excite" and "Conserve," enhancing the driving experience.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior space was a mixed bag. While the Zero Gravity seats were comfortable, they were undersized, and taller drivers struggled to find an ideal seating position. The rear seats offered excellent thigh support and a great view, making them preferable for passengers. Cargo space was a strong point, with 39 cubic feet behind the rear seats and additional underfloor storage.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator provided 18.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the seats folded, and 77.7 cubic feet in total. The second row, especially in the Grand Touring model, was a highlight with captain's chairs and a digital control panel. However, the power-button door releases raised concerns about functionality if the battery died.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with upgrades like SiriusXM and a Bose sound system. However, the 7-inch touchscreen was outdated, with slow response times and subpar voice recognition, diminishing the tech experience.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with the Sync 3 system, offering a user-friendly interface and redundant controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were well-integrated, and the digital instrument panel and optional head-up display added to the tech appeal.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with the Safety Shield 360 package, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. However, its crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star NHTSA rating and no IIHS Top Safety Pick designation.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator boasted the Lincoln Co-Pilot 360 package, with features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. The Co-Pilot 360 Plus package added advanced features like reverse automatic braking. The Aviator earned top safety ratings from both NHTSA and IIHS, including a Top Safety Pick accolade.