2022 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 GMC Yukon

The 2021 GMC Yukon was a testament to GMC's commitment to offering a premium-grade vehicle that balanced ruggedness with refinement. Positioned between Chevrolet and Cadillac, the Yukon provided a truck-based full-size SUV experience with a touch of luxury. The redesigned model came in various trims, including the SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali, with the latter being the most upscale. The Denali trim, in particular, stood out with its exclusive dashboard design, real wood trim, leather-wrapped panels, and unique interior stitching. The Yukon Denali Ultimate, with its Midnight Blue paint and 22-inch wheels, exuded a sense of grandeur, making it more appealing than its Chevrolet Tahoe counterpart. Despite its high price, the Yukon Denali offered a substantial and sophisticated cabin that appealed to buyers seeking substance over mere image.

In contrast, the 2022 Nissan Rogue continued to build on its reputation as a top-selling compact crossover. The Rogue's design, which had matured over the years, featured a more grown-up look with elements like the V-motion grille and multi-level LED headlights. The interior boasted a layered dash design with contrasting colours and surfaces, creating a sophisticated and detailed appearance. The centre console was a highlight, featuring an electronic gear selector lever and ample storage space. The Rogue's cabin was designed with practicality in mind, offering comfortable Zero Gravity front seats and a spacious second row. The fit and finish were exemplary, especially in the top-of-the-line Platinum model, making the Rogue a well-rounded choice for those seeking a stylish and comfortable ride.

The 2021 GMC Yukon offered a range of engine options, with the Denali trim featuring a powerful 420-horsepower 6.2-litre V8 engine. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivered robust acceleration and a distinctive V8 burble at idle. However, fuel efficiency was not its strong suit, with consumption averaging 16.3 litres per 100 kilometres on a testing loop. The Yukon boasted an independent rear suspension and an available Four-Corner Air Ride suspension, enhancing ride quality and handling. The Active Response 4WD system, with its Autotrac two-speed transfer case and electronic limited-slip differential, improved cornering performance and traction. Despite its size, the Yukon was capable of hustling when needed, though it was not particularly fun to drive. The Yukon Denali could tow up to 3,629 kilograms, though this was less than some competitors.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue, on the other hand, benefited from a new 1.5-litre VC-Turbo engine, producing 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. This engine, with its variable compression technology, offered improved performance and fuel efficiency, achieving an estimated 7.8 litres per 100 kilometres in the city. The Rogue's CVT transmission had wider gear ratios, enhancing acceleration and responsiveness. The chassis and suspension provided a smooth and controlled ride, with minimal body roll. The electric power-assisted steering offered good feel, and the Rogue's tight turning diameter made it manoeuvrable in urban settings. Overall, the Rogue's performance was lively and efficient, making it a practical choice for everyday driving.

The 2021 GMC Yukon benefited from an independent rear suspension, resulting in significant gains in passenger and cargo space. The front seats, while leather-upholstered and power-adjustable, lacked a massage function and could feel hard over long drives. The second-row seats were heated and could slide and collapse for improved comfort and cargo room. The third-row seat offered actual thigh support, accommodating adults comfortably. Cargo volume was impressive, with up to 3,480 litres of space available with the seats folded. The Yukon Denali's interior was designed for convenience, with features like a power sliding console and ample storage solutions.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue excelled in interior practicality, offering numerous storage options throughout the cabin. The front cabin featured bottle holders, cupholders, a glove compartment, and various cubbies, along with USB-A, USB-C, and 12-volt outlets. Rear-seat passengers had access to storage in the doors and seatbacks, as well as USB ports for charging devices. The Rogue's cargo area was generous, with up to 1,033 litres of space available, expanding to 2,098 litres with the second row folded. The Rogue's interior was designed with families and commuters in mind, providing ample space and convenience for everyday needs.

The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali offered a comprehensive infotainment system with a 10.2-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Ultimate Package added features like wireless device charging, a navigation system, and a 14-speaker Bose audio system. The Rear Seat Media system, with dual 12.6-inch displays, provided entertainment for passengers, though it required some setup for streaming content. The Yukon also featured a 15-inch head-up display, a rear camera mirror, and multiple surround-view camera angles, enhancing manoeuvrability and safety.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue continued its technology upgrade with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a 10.8-inch head-up display. Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto were standard, with wireless Apple CarPlay available on upper trims. ProPilot Assist, integrated with the navigation system, offered advanced driver-assist features, adjusting speed based on road conditions. Nissan's Intelligent Key allowed for convenient keyless entry, enhancing the Rogue's practicality for families.

The 2021 GMC Yukon came equipped with a range of advanced driving assistance systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The Denali trim offered additional features like adaptive cruise control and enhanced automatic emergency braking. The Yukon's ADAS operated smoothly, providing a safe and comfortable driving experience. Crash-test ratings were unavailable, but the Yukon's substantial curb weight offered a sense of security.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue featured the Safety Shield 360 suite, including automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning. The Rogue also offered ProPilot Assist, a Level 2 advanced driver-assist system, enhancing safety and convenience. The Rogue received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, highlighting its strong safety credentials.