2021 Nissan Rogue vs 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

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

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, while not a visual standout, offered a unique proposition as a plug-in hybrid minivan. Despite its minivan image, it provided practical features like sliding side doors for easy access in tight spaces. The Pacifica Hybrid was not cheap, with the base model starting at $55,995, but it offered a federal EV rebate to offset costs. The interior featured quality black Nappa leather, though the styling appeared softer and more dated compared to newer, more angular designs. The Pacifica Hybrid did not attempt to disguise its minivan nature, focusing instead on its practicality and efficiency.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue was powered by a new 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm. This engine improved both performance and fuel efficiency compared to its predecessor. The Rogue's curb weight ranged from 1,536 kg for the front-wheel-drive S grade to 1,653 kg for the all-wheel-drive Platinum model. Despite the continuously variable transmission (CVT), the Rogue's handling was significantly improved, with better torsional rigidity and a revamped suspension system. Fuel efficiency was respectable, with the front-wheel-drive model achieving 8.9 L/100 km in the city and 7.0 on the highway.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a plug-in hybrid drivetrain based on a 3.6-litre V6 engine paired with a dual-motor electric drive system. The total system output was 260 horsepower, with immediate torque from the electric drive system. The Pacifica Hybrid could travel up to 51 km on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes. The regenerative braking system helped extend the electric range, and the transition between electric and gasoline power was nearly seamless. However, the driving experience was described as dull, with light steering and unremarkable regenerative brakes. The Pacifica Hybrid achieved an average fuel economy of 6.3 L/100 km.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue offered functional updates across all trims, 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, a heated steering wheel, and exterior mirrors. The Platinum grade added a redesigned cargo system with 1,028 litres of space with the second row upright and 2,064 litres with them folded. The cargo system allowed for a 5 cm floor height adjustment and included a panel for separating cargo.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, with three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. The interior featured triple-zone automatic climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage options were plentiful, with extra shelves, a large floor tray, and a long storage bin behind the centre console. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n’ Go seats, though they required removal to maximize cargo space. The Pacifica Hybrid offered 914 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,477 litres with the third row folded and 3,978 litres with the second row removed.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The SV grade added a Wi-Fi hotspot and additional USB ports, while the Platinum grade featured a 9-inch screen, wireless phone charging, and a Bose 10-speaker audio system. However, the digital instrument cluster's graphics were difficult to read due to low contrast.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was equipped with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system allowed for five user profiles and included the FamCam overhead camera system. The voice recognition technology was inconsistent, but the 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system provided quality audio. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered Amazon Fire TV for rear-seat entertainment, though it was not frequently used by passengers.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured the Safety Shield 360 suite, including forward emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane departure warning. The SV model added ProPILOT Assist for highway driving assistance. The Rogue received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with improvements made to later models.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive package of standard safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system. It offered adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist, though the adaptive cruise control required refinement. The Pacifica earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with a four-star rating for frontal-impact protection.