2021 Nissan Rogue vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2021 Nissan Rogue underwent a complete redesign, presenting a more muscular and imposing presence for this compact SUV. Its squared-off nose featured a deeper interpretation of Nissan’s V-Motion grille, flanked by standard LED headlamps in a narrow, angled configuration, and separate LED daytime running lights. Functional forward air vents and active grille shutters contributed to a lower coefficient of drag, despite the vehicle's boxier proportions. The exterior colour palette was simplified to a few core colours, with additional two-tone options available on higher trims. Inside, seating surfaces varied from cloth to semi-aniline quilted Nappa leather, depending on the trim level, with the Platinum model offering a particularly upscale interior.

The 2022 Acura MDX, a pioneer in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, was built on a new dedicated platform, enhancing its proportions with a longer wheelbase, wider body, and increased dash-to-axle distance. The exterior design was sportier and more assertive, featuring standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels. Inside, the MDX boasted a modernized cabin with a layered dashboard, authentic materials like natural wood and genuine aluminum, and a unique gear selection system. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen was strategically placed for safety, and the interior offered a range of colour themes to suit different tastes.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured a new 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, with improvements in both performance and fuel efficiency over the previous generation. The engine was well-matched to the Rogue’s weight, ranging from 1,536 kg to 1,653 kg, depending on the model. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) was less droning than expected, though no alternate powertrain options were available. Fuel efficiency was respectable, with figures of 8.9 L/100 km in the city and 7.0 on the highway for the front-wheel-drive version. The Rogue’s handling was significantly improved, with better torsional rigidity and a revamped suspension system.

The 2022 Acura MDX came with a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. A new 10-speed automatic transmission and Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) enhanced performance, with torque vectoring improving cornering feel and control. The suspension was upgraded to a double-wishbone setup in the front and revised multi-link in the rear, improving ride quality. The MDX’s overall stiffness and rigidity were enhanced, contributing to a solid ride feel. The new transmission worked seamlessly with the engine, offering five drive modes to tailor performance to different driving conditions.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue offered functional updates across all price points, including a quieter cabin and a new shift-by-wire system that added storage space. The second-row doors opened to 85 degrees, improving access, and headroom was increased. Standard features included heated front seats and a steering wheel, with upgrades available in higher trims. The cargo space was generous, with a redesigned Divide and Hide system offering flexible storage options.

The 2022 Acura MDX excelled in versatility, with comfortable seating for the first two rows and a removable centre section in the second row. The third row was best suited for smaller passengers, but the sliding rows allowed for flexible cargo capacity. The power tailgate featured a “Walk Away Close” function, and interior lighting was customizable with 27 themes. The MDX offered between 461 and 512 litres of luggage space behind the third row, expanding significantly with the seats folded.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue was equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM. Higher trims added features like a Wi-Fi hotspot, additional USB ports, and a larger 9-inch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay. The Platinum grade introduced a head-up display and a Bose audio system, though the digital instrument cluster had readability issues.

The 2022 Acura MDX featured the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System in higher trims, with 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification. All models came with a 12.3-inch infotainment system and digital instrument panel, with built-in Amazon Alexa and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A head-up display was standard on the Platinum Elite grade, and a WiFi hotspot was included, with over-the-air updates available for software and firmware.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue came standard with the Safety Shield 360 suite, including features like forward emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane departure warning. The SV model introduced ProPILOT Assist for highway driving. The Rogue received a “Top Safety Pick+” rating from the IIHS and a four-star safety rating from the NHTSA, with improvements made to later models.

The 2022 Acura MDX was rated as a “Top Safety Pick+” by the IIHS, with a focus on collision protection and pedestrian safety. The AcuraWatch suite was standard, offering features like collision mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control, and traffic-jam assist. The MDX’s advanced safety structure and low-speed braking control system enhanced safety in various driving conditions.