2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 Nissan Rogue is 6.0 out of 10, while the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan scores 7.3 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan is the better choice, offering a more refined driving experience, advanced technology, and superior safety features.
Choose the 2020 Nissan Rogue if:
- You prioritize a lower starting price and straightforward trim options.
- Rear passenger comfort and cargo space are important to you.
- You value advanced driver-assistance systems like Safety Shield 360.
Choose the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan if:
- You prefer a more modern and upscale design with a spacious interior.
- You want a versatile cargo area with flexible seating configurations.
- You seek advanced infotainment and safety technology, including the MIB3 system and IQ Drive.
Overview | |
MSRP$25,490 | MSRP$25,245 |
Average price$17,935 | Average price$21,358 |
Listings1475 | Listings2036 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews6.0 out of 10 | Expert reviews7.3 out of 10 |
Pros
| Pros
|
2020 Nissan Rogue Reviews SummaryNissan hasn’t redesigned the Rogue since 2014, but an all-new version of this SUV is coming for the 2021 model year. In the meantime, dealers will be eager to sell remaining stocks of the outgoing 2020 Nissan Rogue, and the deals on these new cars ought to be mighty juicy. Should you bite? Should you wait? Or should you shop for something else? The answers to these questions depend on who you are and what you value in a compact crossover SUV. | |
2021 Volkswagen Tiguan Reviews SummaryYou may have noticed that crossover SUVs are popular. Among them, compact models dominate, having essentially replaced the traditional midsize sedan in American driveways. Offering room for five people, available all-wheel drive (AWD), and more cargo than any family car, they are the preferred method of transportation for a broad cross section of new vehicle buyers. But that’s not the only explanation for the runaway success of the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan. | |
No video found | No video found |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine2.5L 170 hp I4 | Engine2.0L 184 hp I4 |
Drive TrainFWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity7 |
Horsepower170 hp @ 6000 rpm | Horsepower184 hp @ 4400 rpm |
MPG City26 | MPG City23 |
MPG Highway33 | MPG Highway29 |
Engine | |
Engine Name2.5L 170 hp I4 | Engine Name2.0L 184 hp I4 |
Torque175 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm | Torque221 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm |
Horsepower170 hp @ 6000 rpm | Horsepower184 hp @ 4400 rpm |
DrivetrainFWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City26 | MPG City23 |
MPG Highway33 | MPG Highway29 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity7 |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall4 | Front Crash Overall4 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space39.3 cu ft | Cargo Space12.0 cu ft |
Curb Weight3463 lbs | Curb Weight3735 lbs |
Height66.3 in | Height66.3 in |
Length184.5 in | Length185.1 in |
Width72.4 in | Width72.4 in |
Wheelbase106.5 in | Wheelbase109.8 in |
Maximum Payload1127 lbs | Maximum Payload1146 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | Maximum Towing Capacity1500 lbs |
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 Nissan Rogue is 6.0 out of 10, while the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan scores 7.3 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan is the better choice, offering a more refined driving experience, advanced technology, and superior safety features.
Choose the 2020 Nissan Rogue if:
Shop Now- You prioritize a lower starting price and straightforward trim options.
- Rear passenger comfort and cargo space are important to you.
- You value advanced driver-assistance systems like Safety Shield 360.
Choose the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan if:
Shop Now- You prefer a more modern and upscale design with a spacious interior.
- You want a versatile cargo area with flexible seating configurations.
- You seek advanced infotainment and safety technology, including the MIB3 system and IQ Drive.
Overview | ||
MSRP | $25,490 | $25,245 |
Average price | $17,935 | $21,358 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | 4.6 | 4.8 |
Expert reviews | 6.0 out of 10Read full review | 7.3 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
| Pros
|
Summary | Nissan hasn’t redesigned the Rogue since 2014, but an all-new version of this SUV is coming for the 2021 model year. In the meantime, dealers will be eager to sell remaining stocks of the outgoing 2020 Nissan Rogue, and the deals on these new cars ought to be mighty juicy. Should you bite? Should you wait? Or should you shop for something else? The answers to these questions depend on who you are and what you value in a compact crossover SUV. | You may have noticed that crossover SUVs are popular. Among them, compact models dominate, having essentially replaced the traditional midsize sedan in American driveways. Offering room for five people, available all-wheel drive (AWD), and more cargo than any family car, they are the preferred method of transportation for a broad cross section of new vehicle buyers. But that’s not the only explanation for the runaway success of the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan. |
Video | No video found | No video found |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 2.5L 170 hp I4 | 2.0L 184 hp I4 |
Drive Train | FWD | FWD |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 7 |
Horsepower | 170 hp @ 6000 rpm | 184 hp @ 4400 rpm |
MPG City | 26 | 23 |
MPG Highway | 33 | 29 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 2.5L 170 hp I4 | 2.0L 184 hp I4 |
Torque | 175 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm | 221 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm |
Horsepower | 170 hp @ 6000 rpm | 184 hp @ 4400 rpm |
Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 26 | 23 |
MPG Highway | 33 | 29 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 5 | 7 |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 4 | 4 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 39.3 cu ft | 12.0 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 3463 lbs | 3735 lbs |
Height | 66.3 in | 66.3 in |
Length | 184.5 in | 185.1 in |
Width | 72.4 in | 72.4 in |
Wheelbase | 106.5 in | 109.8 in |
Maximum Payload | 1127 lbs | 1146 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 1500 lbs | |
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, featuring a bold V-Motion grille and exaggerated fender swells. The 19-inch aluminum wheels on the SL trim added to its appeal. 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 Volkswagen Tiguan boasted clean lines and balanced proportions, presenting a conservative, upscale, and timeless aesthetic. This second-generation model corrected the size issues of its predecessor, offering a long-wheelbase version that made it nearly as spacious inside as a Hyundai Santa Fe or Kia Sorento. The Tiguan's upsizing resulted in a roomy interior, accommodating four people comfortably, with the option to carry five or expand passenger capacity to seven with a small third-row seat. The interior featured modern geometric forms and a no-nonsense control layout, though the engine start button's placement on the center console was unusual. Shiny detailing, digital instrumentation, and a flush touchscreen infotainment system added a touch of sophistication, though the hard plastic surfaces and flimsy steering wheel stalks detracted from the overall premium feel.
The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with a single powertrain: 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 performance 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 testing revealed a disappointing 24.9 mpg. The Rogue's ride and handling benefited from brake-induced technologies like Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the overall driving experience was lackluster, with lifeless steering, poor suspension isolation, and occasional CVT drone.
The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 4Motion AWD system was optional on most models and standard on the SEL Premium R-Line. The powertrain was adequate but suffered from turbo lag, making the Tiguan feel breathless during passing and freeway merging. The EPA rated the Tiguan at 25 mpg combined for FWD and 24 mpg for AWD, but testing showed an average of 22.6 mpg for the AWD model. Despite the powertrain's shortcomings, the Tiguan offered a pleasurable driving experience with light, responsive steering, a compliant ride, refined braking, and nimble handling. However, the suspension's lack of isolation over sharp bumps and railroad tracks was a drawback. The Tiguan excelled in highway comfort, providing a quiet and composed ride.
The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior comfort was compromised for taller drivers, with limited seat height adjustment and legroom. The seats, though featuring Nissan's Zero Gravity design and Quick Comfort heating, were undersized. Rear passengers fared better, enjoying high seat cushions, excellent thigh support, and a panoramic sunroof. In-cabin storage was limited, but the cargo area offered 39 cubic feet of space, underfloor storage compartments, and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.
The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan prioritized comfort with large doors, tall seating hip points, and a wide range of front seat adjustments. The V-Tex leatherette upholstery and dual-zone climate control added to the comfort. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, air conditioning vents, USB charging ports, and soft front seatback material. The panoramic sunroof was a welcome feature, though storage space was limited. The Tiguan's 40/20/40-split folding rear seat and usefully shaped cargo area, with deep wells for carrying items, provided versatility. Cargo volume ranged from 33 to 37.6 cubic feet behind the second row, depending on the presence of the third-row seat, with a maximum capacity of 65.7 to 73.5 cubic feet.
The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included 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 with 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.
The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan introduced the MIB3 infotainment system starting with the SE trim, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen, faster processing, and expanded features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, WiFi, SiriusXM 360L, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Car-Net connected services offered remote engine starting, automatic crash notification, and Family Guardian settings. While the MIB3 system was an improvement, it had quirks, and the standard six-speaker sound system struggled with bass-heavy music. The SEL Premium R-Line's nine-speaker Fender audio system was a better option. The SEL and SEL Premium R-Line trims also featured Volkswagen Digital Cockpit instrumentation.
The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with the Safety Shield 360 suite, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additional features included Rear Door Alert, Tire Fill Alert, a surround-view camera, and ProPilot Assist adaptive cruise control with lane-centering. However, the Rogue's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star overall rating from the NHTSA and issues with frontal-impact protection.
The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan featured the IQ Drive collection, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control was standard from the SE trim, with lane-departure warning and lane-keep assist added on the SEL, and automatic high-beam headlights on the SEL Premium R-Line. The Tiguan's adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist were effective but had some inconsistencies. The parking sensors and reversing camera were useful, with a surround-view camera available on the SEL Premium R-Line. Car-Net connected services provided additional safety features. The Tiguan earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS for the SEL and SEL Premium R-Line trims, though the NHTSA had not published complete crash-test results.
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