2021 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Ford Escape

2021 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Ford Escape

Posted on July 26, 2021

The compact crossover market is one of the most competitive auto sectors in Canada, with almost every major manufacturer jostling for position in a crowded field. One model which has consistently stood out from the crowd is the Nissan Rogue, enjoying healthy sales thanks to its affordable combination of features and comfort. The new Nissan Rogue is now available at the premier Nissan dealer in Calgary, and here's how it compares to one of its closest rivals, the 2021 Ford Escape.

First Impressions

The 2021 Nissan Rogue benefits from a sharp makeover to the exterior, delivering an attractively confident outline that stands out among the generic compact crossover crowd. The Ford Escape is more traditional looking, with a curvier profile that doesn't stand as tall. Exterior design is a personal preference, but there's no doubt that the Rogue has more character.

Powertrain and Performance

Both cars are fitted with a similar-powered engine at the base level. The Nissan's 2.5L I-4 makes 181 horsepower, a figure matched by the Escape's 1.5L turbo mill. However, while the outputs are closely matched, the Nissan Rogue has a more refined feel to the drive, thanks largely to the smoother continuously variable transmission (CVT) compared to the Ford's regular eight-speed automatic.

Both cars are available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive, and both have a combined fuel economy rating of 8.4L / 100km. However, the Nissan has a slightly better highway rating at 7.3L / 100km compared to the Ford's figure of 7.6L / 100km, a small difference that could quickly add up if you make a lot of longer journeys.

Cargo Volume

With all seats folded, the 2021 Nissan Rogue offers a generous cargo capacity of up to 2,063L, plenty enough for most daily haulage tasks. And while the Escape is by no means cramped, it's maximum capacity of up to 1,852L is substantially lower.

Infotainment

Both cars are equipped with an 8" infotainment touchscreen as standard, but the Rogue also offers the option of a more generous 9" for those with more demanding needs. Unusually for a modern SUV, the base-level Escape isn't equipped with smartphone integration systems, which are only available as upgrades or higher trim options. At the top end of the range, the Rogue is also available with both a head-up display and a 12" digital instrument cluster, options not available on any of the Escape trims.

Active Safety Systems

Both cars are equipped with a good set of active safety systems as standard, with lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, and automatic emergency braking. However, the forward collision warning system on the Rogue is more advanced, including pedestrian detection to take the safety level up a notch.

Test Drive the 2021 Nissan Rogue in Calgary

Experience the 2021 Nissan Rogue for yourself by booking a test drive from our Calgary dealer location. The compact segment may be one of the busiest around, but you'll soon see why the 2021 Rogue fully deserves its place at the head of the pack.