2021 Nissan Rogue vs 2022 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2021 Nissan Rogue was completely redesigned, 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 vehicle'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 level, with the Platinum model offering the most luxurious interior.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder took styling cues from Nissan’s new era of SUV design, featuring a new take on the V-motion grille and a nod to the original Pathfinder with its three-slot grille. The SUV's side panels and hood gave it a beefier look, aligning more with the design of the Kia Telluride than the Toyota Highlander. The Pathfinder was made wider and slightly taller, offering more legroom than its predecessor. It came in four trim levels, each with body-colour door handles and chrome accents. The interior was designed with flexibility in mind, offering standard eight-passenger seating, with the Platinum trim featuring second-row captain’s chairs. The Pathfinder's interior was considered upscale, especially in higher trims, competing well with other midsize SUVs.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured a new 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which, despite its reputation, was not unpleasantly droning. 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. Fuel efficiency was respectable, with the front-wheel-drive configuration achieving 8.9 L/100 km in the city and 7.0 on the highway. The Rogue's handling was improved with a 27% increase in torsional rigidity and a revamped multi-link rear suspension, providing a stable and planted road feel.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder retained its 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a new 9-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth gear transitions. The Pathfinder came standard with all-wheel drive in Canada, featuring hill descent control and seven drive and terrain modes. While fuel consumption estimates were not available, the Pathfinder boasted a 6,000-pound towing capacity. The suspension setup provided a stable ride, and the steering was reasonably connected, making it easy to maneuver. The Pathfinder's towing capabilities were enhanced with stabilizing trailer sway control technology.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue offered a quieter cabin and a new shift-by-wire system, creating additional storage space under the centre stack. The second-row doors opened to 85 degrees, improving access, and the updated design increased headroom. Standard features included heated front seats and a steering wheel, with upgrades available in higher trims. The cargo space was generous, with 1,028 litres available with the second-row seats upright and 2,064 litres with them folded. The redesigned Divide and Hide cargo system allowed for a 5 cm cargo floor height adjustment and a panel to separate cargo.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder focused on interior comfort and flexibility, with improved insulation and acoustic laminated glass reducing road noise. The design allowed for easy loading and unloading, with wide-opening doors and the ability to install up to five car seats. The EZ Flex Latch and Glide second-row seat technology provided easy third-row access. The Pathfinder offered 470 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,421 litres with the second and third rows folded. The interior featured abundant space, with heated front seats standard and ventilated seats available in the Platinum trim. Tri-zone automatic climate control and up to 16 cup and bottle holders added to the vehicle's practicality.

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. The Platinum grade featured a 9-inch screen, wireless phone charging, and a Bose 10-speaker audio system. However, the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster had readability issues due to low contrast.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder was loaded with technology, including a standard 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a 7-inch digital driver-information display. The Platinum trim offered a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument panel and a head-up display. A 13-speaker Bose Premium Audio system was available on higher trims, along with a 9-inch infotainment screen, wireless charging, and additional USB ports.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured Nissan’s 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.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder also included the Safety Shield 360 suite, with additional features like a driver alertness monitor and rear door alert. A rearview camera was standard, with a surround-view monitor available on upper trims. The Pathfinder had ten airbags, with the Platinum trim offering eleven. Crash test ratings were not available at the time.