2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2020 Toyota Sienna

The 2020 Toyota Sienna, part of its third generation, had been around since the 2011 model year. Despite a 2018 update that introduced newer infotainment tech and minor changes, the 2020 Sienna still felt dated. The front doors emitted a hollow "thud" when slammed, indicating a lack of attention to fit and finish. The instrument panel also appeared outdated, resembling parts from Toyota's 2010 lineup. However, this simplicity made the controls easy to use. The Sienna was available in multiple trims, from the base L to the Limited Premium, each offering various features like alloy wheels, climate control, and a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL trims, offered a straightforward approach with a single engine and transmission combination. The SL trim, which included front-drive and the SL Premium Package, was priced at $34,870. The Rogue's exterior remained attractive despite its age, featuring a bold V-Motion grille and 19-inch aluminum wheels. However, the interior showed its age with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces. The center console sides were padded for driver comfort, but overall, the Rogue's interior design felt outdated.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna came equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 296 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The Sienna offered a Sport mode for livelier throttle and shift response, and a manual mode for its 3,500-pound towing capacity. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on all trims except the base L. The FWD Sienna achieved 19 mpg city, 26 highway, and 21 combined, while AWD versions returned 18/24/20. The Sienna's low center of gravity and broad base contributed to decent handling dynamics, though its twitchy steering required constant attention at higher speeds.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue featured a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). While the CVT made the most of the engine's power, the Rogue struggled with acceleration, especially when merging onto freeways or climbing grades. The EPA estimated 29 mpg in combined driving for FWD versions, but real-world testing showed a disappointing 24.9 mpg. The Rogue's ride and handling were improved by brake-induced technologies like Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but its heavy steering and occasional CVT drone made it less enjoyable to drive.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna excelled in cargo space, offering 150 cubic feet, more than competitors like the Chrysler Pacifica and Honda Odyssey. However, accessing this space required removing the second-row seats, which could be cumbersome. The third row folded seamlessly into the floor, but getting into the backseat was challenging due to awkwardly folding second-row seats. Toyota also offered mobility access features like the Auto Access Seat, making the Sienna a practical choice for families needing these capabilities.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior comfort was compromised for taller drivers, as the seat height and legroom were difficult to adjust. However, rear-seat passengers enjoyed high seat cushions, excellent thigh support, and a panoramic sunroof. The Rogue offered 39 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat, along with underfloor storage compartments and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system. In-cabin storage was limited, with only the glove compartment providing ample space.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna's base L trim came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting Amazon Alexa and Apple CarPlay. Standard tech features included Bluetooth connectivity, five USB ports, and a WiFi hotspot with a 6-month trial. Higher trims like the Limited added navigation and a JBL 10-speaker premium audio system. The Driver Easy Speak intercom system allowed the driver to communicate with rear passengers without raising their voice.

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. However, the 7-inch touchscreen interface was slow to respond, and the voice-recognition technology was subpar. Subscription-based NissanConnect Services offered features like remote engine starting and automatic collision notification, but the overall tech experience was lacking.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna came standard with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS-P), which included lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, dynamic cruise control, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring was optional on lower trims and standard on XLE and Limited trims. The Sienna earned five stars from the NHTSA and top ratings from the IIHS, including a Superior rating for its driver-assistance features.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue featured the standard Safety Shield 360, which included 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 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 its headlights and front-passenger protection.