2021 Nissan Rogue vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

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 in a narrow and angled configuration. The inclusion of 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, the Rogue offered cloth seating surfaces in most grades, with leatherette and semi-aniline quilted Nappa leather available on higher trims, enhancing the interior's appeal.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, with its extended body to accommodate third-row seating, maintained an elegant and recognizable Jeep aesthetic. The seven-slot rectangular grille, U-shaped wheel arches, and modernized lighting contributed to its impressive appearance across all trim levels. The interior was luxurious, featuring dual high-resolution screens, real wood, aluminum, and Palermo leather seating. The Grand Cherokee L's design and tactile quality were reminiscent of a Mercedes, offering a premium feel without sharing parts. The spacious interior, even in the third row, and the attention to detail in materials and finishes, made it a standout in its class.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue was powered by a new 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, which improved performance and fuel efficiency over the previous generation. The engine's power was well-matched to the Rogue's weight, ranging from 1,536 kg for the FWD S grade to 1,653 kg for the AWD Platinum model. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) was less droning than expected, though no alternate powertrains were offered. Fuel efficiency was respectable, with the FWD model rated at 8.9 L/100 km city, 7.0 highway, and 8.1 combined, while the AWD version increased slightly to 9.2 city, 7.2 highway, and 8.3 combined. The Rogue's handling was significantly improved, with better torsional rigidity, reduced weight, and updated suspension systems, providing a stable and planted road feel.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered two engine options: a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 and a 5.7-litre V8, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6, producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, was found lacking for the vehicle's weight, especially when fully loaded. The V8, available on higher trims, delivered 357 hp and 390 lb-ft, providing a more satisfying performance. Fuel efficiency for the V6 was rated at 13.0 L/100 km city, 9.4 highway, and 11.3 combined, while the V8 was less efficient at 16.7 city, 10.9 highway, and 14.1 combined. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis was praised for its ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension offering adjustable ride heights and driving modes for various terrains.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured functional updates across all price points, including a quieter cabin and a new shift-by-wire system that added storage space. The rear doors opened to 85 degrees, improving access, and second-row headroom was increased. Standard features included heated front seats, steering wheel, and exterior mirrors, with upgrades available on higher trims. The cargo space was generous, with 1,028 litres available with the second row upright and 2,064 litres with them folded. The redesigned Divide and Hide cargo system offered a 5 cm cargo floor height adjustment and a rail system for separating cargo.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's Uconnect 5 infotainment system was sleek and user-friendly, with physical switches for climate and stereo controls. The interior offered ample space in all rows, with captain's chairs standard in the second row and a 60/40 split bench available. A panoramic roof and multiple USB ports enhanced comfort on long journeys, though the air vents were criticized for insufficient airflow. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was spacious and well-appointed, with thoughtful design elements and premium materials.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue came equipped 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, while the Platinum grade featured a larger 9-inch screen, wireless phone charging, and a Bose 10-speaker audio system. The 10.8-inch head-up display was a highlight, though the digital instrument cluster's graphics were difficult to read.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered premium technology features on upper trims, including massage modes for front seats, a head-up display, night vision, and an Active Driving Assist system. The navigation system integrated with the instrument panel, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and blind spot monitoring. The Summit trims added advanced features like automatic parking and traffic sign recognition, with a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system available on the Summit Reserve.

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

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time of writing. Standard safety features included driver and passenger knee airbags, trailer sway control, and various driver aids.