2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2020 Nissan Rogue was available in S, SV, and SL trim levels, featuring a straightforward design with a single engine and transmission option, and a choice between front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). The test model, an SL trim with front-drive, included the SL Premium Package, carpeted floor and cargo mats, and a first-aid kit, priced at $34,870 with destination charges. 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 age with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces, though it offered thoughtful touches like padded center console sides.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid, positioned between the Lexus UX and RX, showcased sharp edges and a streamlined profile, maintaining a familiar yet distinct look. Despite its luxury status, the NX shared a platform with the older Toyota RAV4, making it a step behind in engineering. The F Sport Black Line test car featured a larger mesh grille, dark-finish 18-inch wheels, and striking Grecian Water paint. The interior, once radical, had become familiar, with a stepped center console and Black Line-specific features like an F Sport heated steering wheel and NuLuxe upholstery. However, the material quality felt more mainstream than luxury.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue offered a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Weighing up to 3,671 pounds, the powertrain was adequate but not sporty, with a Sport mode that failed to enhance performance. The CVT managed power well, but acceleration was lacking, especially during freeway merging or passing. The EPA estimated 29 mpg in combined driving for FWD models, but testing revealed a lower 24.9 mpg. The Rogue's ride and handling benefited from Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the driving experience was marred by lifeless steering and CVT drone.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 194 horsepower and standard AWD. Despite its sporty F Sport styling, the NX hybrid prioritized fuel efficiency over performance, with a 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds and a top speed of 112 mph. The drivetrain struggled with transitions between electric and gasoline power, affecting acceleration. The Black Line package's sport-tuned suspension improved handling without sacrificing comfort. However, the steering was numb, and the NX felt less refined than newer models on the TNGA platform. Drive modes offered minimal impact on performance.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior posed challenges for taller drivers, with seats that were undersized compared to Nissan's usual Zero Gravity designs. The rear seats, however, offered excellent comfort and visibility, enhanced by a panoramic sunroof. In-cabin storage was limited, but cargo space was generous, with 39 cubic feet behind the rear seats and additional underfloor storage. The Divide-n-Hide cargo management system added utility.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid had limited front and rear headroom, with rear legroom being the worst in its class. The front seats provided good support, especially with Black Line-specific bolstering, and offered 10-way power adjustment. The sloping roofline and thick pillars hindered rear visibility, though large mirrors helped. The dashboard's sporty design made controls accessible but might not appeal to traditional SUV buyers. Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded. Power-folding seats and a power liftgate were available but not standard.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a hands-free text messaging assistant. Upgrades offered SiriusXM, navigation, a Bose sound system, and NissanConnect Services with features like remote access and emergency SOS. However, the 7-inch touchscreen felt outdated, with slow response times and subpar voice recognition.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, featuring an 8-inch display (optional 10.3-inch) with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The Remote Touch Interface touchpad was difficult to use while driving. Analog controls were available for climate and audio, and the graphics felt dated. The base eight-speaker audio system lacked quality, making the Mark Levinson upgrade appealing.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue included standard Safety Shield 360 with features like forward-collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. Options included a surround-view camera and ProPilot Assist. However, the Rogue's safety ratings were mixed, with a 4-star NHTSA rating and issues in IIHS testing preventing a Top Safety Pick designation.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a "Top Safety Pick+" from IIHS and a five-star NHTSA rating. Standard safety features included Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 with adaptive cruise control and lane-tracing assist. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were newly standard. The NX lacked a 360-degree camera, but its safety features were impressive for a luxury crossover.