2021 INFINITI QX80 vs 2022 Nissan Rogue

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 showcased a blend of Nissan Armada and Infiniti design elements, with its body-on-frame construction reminiscent of traditional SUVs. Its profile, marked by a distinctive roofline and rear window curve, was shared with the Armada, while the front-end styling was distinctly Infiniti, featuring a bold grille and headlight design. The QX80's exterior was equipped with standard LED lighting and large alloy wheels, contributing to its assertive yet refined appearance. Inside, the QX80's interior echoed the Armada's design, enhanced with luxurious touches like wood trim and leather upholstery, though it retained some Nissan elements, such as the dashboard layout and switchgear.

In contrast, the 2022 Nissan Rogue continued its evolution with a mature design, sharing features with other Nissan models like the Pathfinder. Its exterior boasted a V-motion grille, multi-level LED headlights, and a sleek floating roof design. The Rogue's interior followed a layered dash design trend, offering a sophisticated look with contrasting colours and surfaces. The centre console was notable for its electronic gear selector, providing additional storage space. The Rogue's cabin was equipped with Nissan's Zero Gravity seats, offering comfort and ample space for passengers, while the fit and finish were exemplary, especially in the top-tier Platinum model.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a robust 5.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. Its body-on-frame construction provided a truck-like ride, but the independent suspension and Hydraulic Body Motion Control in the ProACTIVE model ensured a comfortable experience. Despite its size, the QX80 offered a smooth highway ride, though it was less composed in corners. Its 4WD system, with a low range and skid plate, enhanced its off-road capabilities, and it boasted a towing capacity of 3,855 kilograms.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue featured a new 1.5-litre VC-Turbo engine, producing 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, a significant improvement over the previous model. This engine, combined with a new CVT, offered lively performance and impressive fuel efficiency, with estimates of 7.8 litres per 100 kilometres in the city. The Rogue's chassis and suspension provided a smooth ride with minimal body roll, and its electric power-assisted steering offered good feel and a tight turning diameter.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 offered a spacious three-row configuration, with standard seven-seat and optional eight-seat layouts. The front seats were power-adjustable, though they lacked thigh support. Passenger space was competitive, with ample room in the third row, but cargo space was limited compared to rivals like the Cadillac Escalade. The QX80 featured a power liftgate and a power-folding third row, but storage space in the centre console was limited.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue excelled in interior storage, with numerous compartments for passengers' belongings. The rear seat offered a 60/40 split, and the cargo area provided up to 1,033 litres of space, expanding to 2,098 litres with the second row folded. The Rogue's interior was designed for practicality, with multiple charging ports and a wireless charging pad.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 came with the Infiniti InTouch dual-screen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 17-speaker Bose audio system. However, the user interface was not intuitive, with small screens and complex controls. The QX80 included helpful tech like a Smart Rearview Mirror and an Around View Monitor for easier driving.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue benefited from a technology upgrade, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a 10.8-inch head-up display. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with wireless CarPlay on upper trims. ProPilot Assist, available on higher trims, offered advanced driver-assist features, integrating with the navigation system for predictive speed control.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with standard safety features like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The ProACTIVE grade added advanced features like Backup Collision Intervention.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue featured the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite, with standard safety technologies such as automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning. ProPilot Assist enhanced these features, offering Level 2 driver assistance. The Rogue received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.