2020 INFINITI QX80 vs 2020 Nissan Rogue

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL trims, 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 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. 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 older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces. However, the padded center console sides were a thoughtful touch for driver comfort.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80, as Infiniti's flagship SUV, was significantly larger than its siblings, the QX50 and QX60. Available in Luxe and Limited trims, the QX80's exterior had been refreshed in 2018, boasting a commanding presence with modern features like LED lighting, adaptive front lighting, and power-folding mirrors. The SUV offered nine paint options and three interior color schemes, with the Limited model featuring premium materials. While the cabin's materials had improved, some trim pieces lagged behind competitors. The infotainment system had been updated for a sleeker look, though the center stack's piano-black plastic was prone to fingerprints. The test model was the 2020 Infiniti QX80 Edition 30.

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 the power well, but the Rogue struggled with acceleration, especially on freeways or steep grades, often responding with noise rather than action. The EPA estimated 29 mpg 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 2020 INFINITI QX80 featured a robust 5.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. Despite its heft, the QX80's powertrain handled the load well, though downshifting was clunky compared to competitors. Fuel efficiency was a downside, with the RWD model achieving 14 mpg city and 20 mpg highway, and the 4WD model slightly lower. The QX80 offered RWD or 4WD, with the Limited trim standardizing 4WD. It excelled off-road with Normal, Snow, and Mud drive modes. Steering systems varied by trim, with the QX80 Limited offering vehicle-speed-sensitive power-assist steering. The Hydraulic Body Motion Control system and rear auto-leveling suspension enhanced ride quality and towing capacity, rated at 8,500 pounds.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior posed challenges for taller drivers, with seats that were undersized compared to Nissan's usual Zero Gravity designs. Adjusting the driver's seat for optimal comfort was difficult, leading to a less enjoyable experience. Rear passengers fared better, with high seat cushions, excellent thigh support, and a panoramic sunroof enhancing the view. In-cabin storage was limited, but cargo space was generous, offering 39 cubic feet behind the rear seats, along with underfloor storage and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 provided plush seating in the first two rows, though the third row was cramped, best suited for children. Standard seating for seven included captain's chairs, with an optional bench seat. The leather-appointed seats offered various upholstery options, with power-adjustable and climate-controlled front seats. A heated steering wheel and memory system for the driver's seat were standard. The third row was accessible via easy-entry second-row chairs. The QX80's cargo space was impressive, with 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 95.1 cubic feet with seats folded. A power liftgate was 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 calling. However, the 7-inch touchscreen interface was outdated, with slow response times and subpar voice recognition, detracting from the overall tech experience.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 featured an 8-inch upper and 7-inch lower touchscreen, allowing navigation and audio system information to be displayed simultaneously. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, satellite radio, and a 13-speaker Bose stereo, with upgrades available for rear-seat entertainment and a WiFi hotspot. SiriusXM services offered real-time traffic and weather information. The infotainment system was functional but lacked modern design elements.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with standard Safety Shield 360, 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 tech included a surround-view camera and ProPilot Assist. However, the Rogue's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA and issues noted by IIHS.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 offered standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. The QX80 received "good" scores in some IIHS tests, while NHTSA rated it better for side impacts than frontal crashes, with a moderate rollover risk.