2021 Honda Odyssey vs 2022 Nissan Rogue

The 2021 Honda Odyssey presented a familiar yet refreshed appearance, with subtle updates to modernize its decade-old styling theme. The new model year introduced a redesigned grille and front bumper, standard LED headlights with automatic high-beam operation across all trims, and a gloss black spear with a chrome insert stretching across the taillights. The Touring trim debuted a new 19-inch wheel design, enhancing the minivan's aesthetic appeal. The interior received upgrades such as perforated leather upholstery with contrast stitching and piping, new dashboard ambient lighting, and tri-colour floor mats, contributing to a more luxurious feel. The Odyssey's exterior updates, combined with its refined interior, brought it closer to being considered the Acura of minivans.

In contrast, the 2022 Nissan Rogue continued its evolution with a mature and sophisticated design, carrying over the significant redesign from the previous year. The Rogue shared several exterior design elements with other Nissan models, such as the V-motion grille and multi-level LED headlights. The floating roof illusion and slightly bulging liftgate added to its sleek appearance. Inside, the Rogue featured a layered dash design with contrasting colours and surfaces, creating a sophisticated and detailed look. The centre console, with its electronic gear selector lever, offered ample storage space, while the 9-inch infotainment display and digital instrument panel provided a modern touch. The Rogue's interior was both attractive and functional, with comfortable Zero Gravity front seats and a spacious second row.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering 280 horsepower to the front wheels. This combination provided smooth and effortless power, with driving modes such as Normal, Sport, Eco, and Snow, and paddle shifters for manual control. The Odyssey's fuel efficiency was rated at 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with a tested average of 10.8 L/100 km. However, the lack of all-wheel drive put the Odyssey at a disadvantage in snowy conditions. The new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response, while the adaptive cruise control offered stop-and-go capability. Despite its enjoyable driving experience, the Odyssey's brakes struggled under heavy use, particularly during a heatwave.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue received a performance boost with its new 1.5-litre VC-Turbo engine, producing 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. This represented an 11% increase in horsepower and a 24% increase in torque compared to the previous model. The engine's variable compression technology allowed for improved fuel efficiency, with ratings of 7.8 L/100 km city, 6.5 highway, and 7.2 combined. The Rogue's CVT transmission featured wider gear ratios, enhancing acceleration and responsiveness. The chassis and suspension provided a smooth and controlled ride, with minimal body roll and good steering feel. The Rogue's performance was lively and engaging, making it a more exciting option in its segment.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey offered a spacious and versatile interior, with logical controls and ample storage. The 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat was comfortable, with heated front seats and outboard mirrors standard in Canada. The EX-L Navi trim added a heated steering wheel, while the Touring grade included ventilated front seats. The Magic Slide second-row seat layout allowed for various seating configurations, enhancing flexibility. Cargo space was generous, with 929 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,452 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 3,984 litres with the second-row seats removed. However, removing the second-row seats was cumbersome, detracting from the Odyssey's overall convenience.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue excelled in interior storage and functionality, with numerous compartments for stashing items. The front cabin featured bottle holders, cupholders, a glove compartment, and a centre console bin, while rear-seat passengers had storage options in the doors and seatbacks. The Rogue's cargo area offered 1,033 litres of space, expanding to 2,098 litres with the second row folded flat. The Rogue's interior was thoughtfully designed, providing ample space for passengers and cargo, making it a practical choice for families and commuters alike.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and more. The EX-L Navi and Touring trims added navigation, while the Touring grade included a CabinWatch interior camera and CabinTalk PA system. The rear-seat entertainment system featured a 10.2-inch screen, Blu-Ray player, and wireless headphones. However, the lack of a tuning knob and subpar voice-recognition technology were notable drawbacks.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue's technology suite included 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, enhancing safety and convenience. The Rogue's technology was modern and user-friendly, providing a seamless driving experience.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey featured the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driving assistance systems, now standard across all trims. The system included adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with the exception of a four-star rollover resistance rating. However, the adaptive cruise control's braking could be uneven, and the lane-departure warning system's steering wheel wobble was less effective than a vibration.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue came with the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite, offering automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and more. ProPilot Assist provided Level 2 advanced driver-assist features, 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, making it a safe and reliable choice for families.