2022 Kia Sportage vs 2021 Nissan Rogue

The 2021 Nissan Rogue underwent a complete redesign, presenting a 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 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 limited to a few options, with two-tone configurations 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.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia Sportage's design was a mix of successful and less appealing elements. While the tiger-nose grille styling was less effective on the Sportage, other design details were spot-on. The four-dot running light signature and the symmetry of the rear fascia added style, and the 19-inch alloy wheels gave it a planted stance. Inside, the Sportage featured a black dashboard with polished metallic accents, and the controls were user-friendly, with buttons and knobs for easy adjustments. The overall design exuded a sense of quality, with the transmission shifter's operation enhancing the upscale feel.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue was powered by a new 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, fully available at 3,600 rpm. This engine improved performance and fuel efficiency compared to its predecessor. The Rogue's curb weight ranged from 1,536 kg for the FWD S grade to 1,653 kg for the AWD Platinum model. Despite the CVT's presence, the Rogue's handling was significantly better than the previous generation, with improved torsional rigidity and a revamped suspension system. Fuel efficiency was respectable, with the FWD model achieving 8.9 L/100 km in the city and 7.0 on the highway.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered two engine options: a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine with 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, and a more robust 2.0-litre turbocharged engine in the SX trim, delivering 237 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Sportage SX's acceleration was quick, with maximum torque available from 1,450 to 3,500 rpm. The Sportage featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a smooth and compliant ride. The SX trim also had upgraded brakes and exclusive 19-inch wheels, enhancing its sporty character.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue offered functional updates across all trims, including a quieter cabin and a new shift-by-wire system. The second-row doors opened to 85 degrees, improving access, and headroom was increased. Standard features included heated front seats, a steering wheel, and exterior mirrors. The SV trim added a 360-degree Around View Monitor, remote start, and a panoramic sunroof. The Platinum grade included a redesigned Divide and Hide cargo system, offering 1,028 litres of cargo space with the seats upright and 2,064 litres with them folded.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, though smaller, provided a roomy passenger compartment. The SX trim featured perforated leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated front seats. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, air conditioning vents, and a USB charging port. The Sportage's cargo space was less than some competitors, with 1,703 litres available with the seats folded and 868 litres behind the back seat. The smart liftgate technology offered hands-free access, though it could be turned off if not needed.

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 due to low contrast.

The 2022 Kia Sportage included a standard 8-inch touchscreen display with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The SX trim added UVO Intelligence connected services, satellite radio, and a Harman Kardon audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with knobs for volume and tuning. However, the UVO Intelligence system lacked a WiFi hotspot, and the voice-recognition technology was inconsistent.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured the Safety Shield 360 suite, including forward emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane departure warning. The SV model introduced ProPILOT Assist, enhancing highway driving assistance. 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 Kia Sportage's EX and SX grades included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The SX trim also had adaptive cruise control. The Sportage received favourable crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, with the SX earning an Acceptable headlight rating.