2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Toyota Highlander

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL trim levels, offered a straightforward choice with a single engine and transmission combination, and the option of front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). Our 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, especially with the SL’s 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 Toyota Highlander stood out with its bold design, featuring wide headlights, a long hood, and an assertive trapezoidal grille. The character line along the side, reminiscent of the Supra sports car, and Lexus-like taillights added to its appeal. The Highlander looked longer and lower than its predecessor without sacrificing size. The new XSE trim level introduced a sportier appearance with a restyled front end, 20-inch wheels, and a unique front fascia. Our test vehicle, in Limited trim, exuded upscale vibes with chrome accents and a luxurious interior featuring near-flawless fit and finish, tan leather seats, and wood details.

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 our 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 lackluster due to lifeless steering and occasional CVT drone.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander, powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, offered smooth and predictable operation. The engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. While not designed for drag races, the Highlander provided sufficient power for highway merging and daily driving. Compared to competitors, the Highlander’s powertrain was competitive, matching the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride in horsepower and torque. The XSE trim added sportier suspension tuning, but the Highlander remained a comfortable family crossover with a soft suspension.

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 seating position due to limited seat height adjustment. Rear passengers enjoyed high seat cushions, excellent thigh support, and a panoramic sunroof, making the back seat a preferred spot. Cargo space was a strong point, with 39 cubic feet behind the back seat, underfloor storage compartments, and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander excelled in interior space and functionality. Front passengers benefited from large shelves for cell phones and a wireless charging pad in higher trims. Second-row seats offered ample legroom and could slide to adjust space for third-row passengers. The third row was tight for adults but manageable for short trips. Rear-seat climate control vents were oddly placed on the ceiling. Cargo space was limited to 16 cubic feet behind the third row but expanded to 48.4 cubic feet with the third row folded and 84.3 cubic feet with both rows down, providing ample storage for most needs.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue’s infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a hands-free text messaging assistant. Higher trims offered SiriusXM, navigation, a Bose premium sound system, and NissanConnect Services with features like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and remote access. However, the 7-inch touchscreen was outdated, slow to respond, and had subpar voice recognition, diminishing the overall tech experience.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander featured an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen available on Limited and standard on Platinum trims. Both systems were user-friendly, but the navigation system struggled with points of interest. Standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay provided reliable alternatives. The 12.3-inch screen was bright and responsive, though it only displayed certain apps in full width. The JBL audio system was decent but not exceptional.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with standard Safety Shield 360, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. Additional features included Rear Door Alert and Tire Fill Alert. Optional ProPilot Assist offered adaptive cruise control with lane-centering. However, the Rogue’s safety ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA and no Top Safety Pick designation from IIHS due to poor frontal-impact protection.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander upgraded to Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, featuring automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and intersection support, road-sign assist, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-tracing assist, and automatic high beams. The Highlander earned a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from IIHS, reflecting its superior safety features and performance.