2021 Nissan Rogue vs 2022 Ford Explorer

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 design, flanked by standard 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, with options like black, white, grey, red, and blue, and a pearl grey option available on the SV with all-wheel drive. The Platinum grade offered four two-tone colour configurations, adding a touch of exclusivity.

Inside, the Rogue offered cloth seating surfaces in most grades, with leatherette upholstery available in the SV AWD model through a Premium Package. This package also included heated rear seats, manual rear sunshades, and a power liftgate. The Platinum model elevated the interior with semi-aniline quilted Nappa leather, aiming to win over skeptics with its luxurious feel. The Rogue's interior updates were designed to enhance comfort and appeal across its lineup.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered a range of models, including the rugged Timberline and sporty ST-Line trims. Its design was based on a rear-drive platform, allowing for a long and tall hood, short front overhang, and a rakish roofline, giving it a taut, athletic appearance. Blacked-out roof pillars created a "floating roof" effect, adding to its visual appeal. The Explorer's cabin, especially in higher trims, showcased a mix of quality materials, though some elements hinted at its base trim origins.

The Explorer's interior was designed for comfort, with features like triple-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable heated steering wheel, and heated and ventilated front seats. The second-row seats were nearly as accommodating, but the third-row seat was best suited for children due to limited legroom. Practical storage space was somewhat lacking, with missed opportunities for additional storage solutions. The Explorer's cargo space was generous, with 528 litres behind the third row and up to 2,132 litres with all rear seats folded.

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 performance and fuel efficiency over the previous generation. The engine was well-matched to the Rogue's weight, ranging from 1,536 kg for the front-wheel-drive S grade to 1,653 kg for the all-wheel-drive Platinum 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 front-wheel drive, and slightly higher for all-wheel drive. The Rogue's handling was significantly improved, with better torsional rigidity, reduced weight, and updated suspension systems.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The XLT, ST-Line, and Timberline trims featured a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The Explorer Limited offered a hybrid drivetrain with a 3.3-litre V6 engine, producing 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kg. The ST and Platinum trims boasted a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, generating 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,540 kg. The Explorer's ride was robust, with a traditional SUV feel and capable off-road performance, especially in the Timberline model. The Explorer's handling was engaging, with the sport-tuned ST offering additional performance features.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured functional updates across its lineup, including a quieter cabin and a new shift-by-wire system, creating additional storage space. The second-row doors opened to 85 degrees, improving access, and headroom was increased. Standard features included heated front seats, steering wheel, and exterior mirrors, with upgrades available in higher trims. The Platinum grade offered a redesigned Divide and Hide cargo system, with 1,028 litres of cargo space with the second row upright and 2,064 litres with them folded.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided comfort for families, with the option of a second-row bench seat for occasional five-passenger capacity. The third-row seat was best for children due to limited space. Higher trims offered features like massaging front seats and manual second-row sunshades. Practical storage was limited, with missed opportunities for additional storage solutions. The Explorer's cargo space was generous, with 528 litres behind the third row and up to 2,132 litres with all rear seats folded.

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 an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot and additional USB ports. 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 hard to read.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered two versions of its Sync 3 infotainment system, with an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The system included FordPass Connect services, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. Higher trims featured wireless smartphone charging and a Bang and Olufsen sound system. The Explorer's voice recognition system was less effective, and the Sync 3 system was due for an upgrade to Sync 4.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue included the Safety Shield 360 suite, with features like forward emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane departure warning. The SV model added 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.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. It featured Ford Co-Pilot360, with forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety features operated smoothly, though steering wheel sensitivity could be improved.