2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Ford Expedition

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL trim levels, offered a straightforward choice with a single engine and transmission combination, and the option of front-wheel drive (FWD) or 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 remained attractive with its bold V-Motion grille and 19-inch aluminum wheels. However, the interior showed its age with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces, though the padded center console sides were a thoughtful touch.

In contrast, the 2021 Ford Expedition Platinum, the most luxurious version of the Expedition lineup, impressed with its plush and roomy interior. The test vehicle, priced at $80,510, included Magnetic gray paint, 4WD, a Heavy Duty Trailer Tow Package, and second-row captain’s chairs. Despite its inability to accommodate all the luggage for six passengers, the Expedition's big and bold presence, intricate chrome grille, and 22-inch machined-face aluminum wheels made it a good-looking vehicle. The extended-length MAX version would have solved the cargo issue, highlighting the importance of choosing the right configuration.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue featured 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 merely adequate, often responding with noise rather than action during acceleration or climbing grades. The CVT managed to make the most of the available power, but the Rogue's performance was underwhelming, especially in Sport mode. Fuel economy was also disappointing, with the Rogue achieving only 24.9 mpg in testing, compared to the EPA's 29 mpg estimate. The ride and handling were improved by brake-induced technologies like Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the Rogue SL's driving experience was not particularly enjoyable due to lifeless steering and occasional CVT drone.

The 2021 Ford Expedition, equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivered impressive performance. The engine produced 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, with the Platinum trim boosting these figures to 400 hp and 480 lb-ft. Towing capacity ranged from 9,000 to 9,300 pounds, and the Pro Trailer Backup Assist technology made maneuvering trailers easier. The Expedition's acceleration was strong, even with a full load, and the engine note was pleasant. The adaptive damping suspension on the Platinum trim provided a comfortable ride, though the 22-inch wheels transmitted road shock into the cabin. The Expedition averaged 17.1 mpg in testing, slightly below the EPA's 19 mpg estimate for 4WD models.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior space was a mixed bag. The front seats, though featuring Nissan's Zero Gravity design, were somewhat undersized and difficult to adjust for taller drivers. Rear passengers, however, enjoyed high seat cushions, excellent thigh support, and a great view, especially with the panoramic sunroof. In-cabin storage was limited, but cargo space was generous, with 39 cubic feet behind the back seat and additional underfloor storage compartments.

The 2021 Ford Expedition excelled in comfort and utility, with large, wide seats for all passengers, including adults in the third row. The independent rear suspension ensured comfort, and storage for odds and ends was plentiful. Cargo volume expanded from 19.3 cubic feet to 57.5 cubic feet with the third-row seat folded, and up to 104.6 cubic feet with all seats down. The Expedition MAX offered even more space, with 34.3 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 121.5 cubic feet. However, the high liftover height for loading heavy items was a consideration.

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, and remote access. However, the 7-inch touchscreen was outdated, and the system's slow response and subpar voice recognition were frustrating.

The 2021 Ford Expedition's Sync 3 infotainment system, though aging, remained user-friendly. It featured an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, FordPass Connect services, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, and navigation. The system also included Amazon Alexa compatibility and enhanced voice recognition. The test vehicle had a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system and wireless smartphone charging, but lacked the available dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with 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-beam headlights. Additional features included Rear Door Alert and Tire Fill Alert. 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 NHTSA and no Top Safety Pick designation from IIHS.

The 2021 Ford Expedition, with a curb weight of at least 5,368 pounds, had a safety advantage. NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall rating, though the RWD model had a three-star rollover-resistance rating. Standard safety features included Ford Co-Pilot360, with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high-beam headlights. Higher trims offered adaptive cruise control, semi-autonomous parking assistance, and a 360-degree camera system. The Expedition's lane-keeping technology was helpful, but it lacked more advanced driving systems like Ford's upcoming BlueCruise.