2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Toyota Sequoia

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL trims, offered a straightforward design with a single engine and transmission combination, and a choice between front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). The test model featured the SL trim with front-drive, the SL Premium Package, and additional accessories, totaling $34,870. Despite its age, the Rogue maintained an attractive appearance, though the V-Motion grille and fender swells were somewhat exaggerated. The 19-inch aluminum wheels on the SL trim added to its appeal. Inside, the Rogue's age was more evident with its waterfall control panel and rounded interior forms, which contrasted with the modern trend of wide, angular designs. The plastic surfaces were unimpressive, but the padded center console sides were a thoughtful touch for driver comfort.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia, despite being long in the tooth since its 2007 introduction, received a facelift in 2018 and a new Nightshade Special Edition for 2021. The subtle updates, like the lines connecting the grille to the headlights, were overshadowed by the vehicle's imposing silhouette. Inside, the Sequoia's massive, multi-tiered center dash design felt dated, and the standard 7-inch touchscreen appeared small against the expansive dash. The front seats were bulky, limiting headroom for tall drivers, especially with the optional sunroof. However, the second-row seats offered ample headroom and legroom, and all seats were comfortable and supportive. The Sequoia's trims ranged from the entry-level SR5 to the range-topping Platinum, each offering various features and packages to enhance the vehicle's appeal.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue was equipped with 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 adequate but not sporty, even with a Sport driving mode. 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 a combined fuel economy of 29 mpg for FWD models, but testing revealed a disappointing 24.9 mpg. The Rogue's ride and handling benefited from Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the vehicle was not particularly fun to drive, with lifeless steering and occasional CVT drone.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia came standard with a robust 5.7-liter V8 engine producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This setup provided strong acceleration, even for an SUV weighing up to 6,000 pounds. The Sequoia's driving dynamics resembled those of a truck, with a lurching V8, soft suspension, and powerful brakes. While body-roll was present in cornering, the wide stance helped the Sequoia settle into turns. The brakes, though strong, could be touchy. The Sequoia's towing capacity reached 7,400 pounds, falling short of class leaders like the Ford Expedition but still more capable than many other SUVs.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior posed challenges for those with larger frames or longer legs. The seats, though fine, were somewhat undersized compared to Nissan's usual Zero Gravity designs. The driver's seat height adjustment was limited, forcing some to sit lower than preferred. The back seat, however, offered excellent comfort with high seat cushions, good thigh support, and a proper backrest angle. The panoramic glass sunroof enhanced the view, and rear passengers enjoyed air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. In-cabin storage was limited, but the cargo area provided 39 cubic feet of space, with underfloor storage and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia boasted a spacious cabin with nearly 19 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to over 66 cubic feet with the third row folded, and an impressive 120 cubic feet with all rear seats down. The power-retractable rear window was a convenient feature for accessing items without fully opening the hatch. While the front-row space could have been better utilized, the Sequoia offered deep in-door pockets, a massive center console, and multiple cupholders. Despite newer SUVs maximizing space more effectively, the Sequoia provided ample storage options.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a hands-free text messaging assistant. Upgrades offered SiriusXM satellite radio, navigation, a Bose premium sound system, and NissanConnect Services with features like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and remote access. However, the 7-inch touchscreen interface was dated, with slow response times and subpar voice recognition, detracting from the overall tech experience.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia featured a standard 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and a WiFi hotspot. The test model's 9-inch screen, though larger, still felt small on the expansive dash. The older infotainment system was user-friendly, with simple menu navigation and large hard buttons. The digital trip computer was small but easy to use, offering a straightforward tech experience despite the Sequoia's dated design.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with the standard Safety Shield 360 suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and more. Additional features included a Rear Door Alert and Tire Fill Alert system. Optional safety features were a surround-view camera and ProPilot Assist adaptive cruise control. 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 Toyota Sequoia was equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense-P suite, offering features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. It also included blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors. While lacking advanced tech like lane-keeping assist, the Sequoia provided a comprehensive list of safety features. However, it scored only four stars in the NHTSA's rollover test and lacked further crash-test ratings.