2022 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 presented a rugged exterior reminiscent of a traditional SUV, with boxy fender flares, chiseled taillights, and a scowling front end that set it apart from previous generations and most compact crossovers. Despite its aggressive styling, the RAV4 was built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, shared with other Toyota models, which provided a solid foundation but did not elevate the vehicle beyond its ordinary mechanical roots. The RAV4 Trail model offered a retro look with an Ice Edge roof and orange interior accents, while the TRD Off-Road package added features like matte black alloy wheels and a TRD front skid plate. Inside, the RAV4 featured rugged styling touches such as large rubberized knobs and door handles, with material quality that was decent on lower trims but did not improve significantly on higher trims.

In contrast, the 2022 Nissan Rogue continued its evolution with a mature exterior design, sharing features with other Nissan models like the V-motion grille and multi-level LED headlights. The Rogue's floating roof and bulging liftgate added to its sleek appearance. Inside, the Rogue boasted a sophisticated layered dash design with contrasting colours and surfaces, complemented by an electronic gear selector lever that freed up space in the centre console. The 9-inch infotainment display was positioned for easy viewing, and the Rogue's Zero Gravity front seats provided comfort, while the second row offered ample legroom. The Rogue's fit and finish were exemplary, with high-quality materials, especially in the top Platinum model.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While the engine achieved impressive thermal efficiency and revved like a racing engine, the transmission struggled to keep up, resulting in a less dynamic driving experience. The RAV4's steering was responsive but lacked feel, and the "Sport" mode only added weight to the steering. Off-road, the RAV4 Trail and TRD Off-Road models offered torque-vectoring all-wheel drive and 21.7 cm of ground clearance, but their off-road capabilities were limited by suspension articulation and approach angles.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue, on the other hand, benefited from a new 1.5-litre VC-Turbo engine with 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, offering a significant improvement over the previous model. The engine's variable compression technology allowed for efficient power delivery, and the new CVT transmission provided a wider range of gear ratios for better acceleration and responsiveness. The Rogue's chassis and suspension handled the engine's power well, delivering a smooth ride with minimal body roll. The electric power-assisted steering offered good feel, and the Rogue's turning diameter was tight at 10.8 metres.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 offered a tall, upright roof providing good headroom and visibility, but legroom was slightly behind competitors. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats had hard cushions, making long trips less appealing. Cargo space was above average at 1,059 litres with seats up and 1,977 litres with seats folded, but still behind the Honda CR-V. The RAV4's controls were user-friendly, but storage space was limited.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue excelled in interior storage, with numerous compartments for passengers' needs, including bottle holders, cupholders, and various cubbies. The second-row seat was a 60/40 split reclining bench, and the Rogue offered up to 1,033 litres of cargo space, expanding to 2,098 litres with the rear seats folded. The Rogue's interior was well-equipped with USB ports and a wireless charging pad, catering to modern connectivity needs.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 featured standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with most trims getting a 7-inch touchscreen, while higher trims offered an 8-inch screen. The infotainment system was user-friendly but lacked excitement, and the gasoline RAV4 did not include a head-up display. The RAV4 offered up to five USB ports and an optional JBL premium audio system.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue's technology was more advanced, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a 10.8-inch head-up display on upper trims. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with wireless Apple CarPlay available. ProPilot Assist with Navi-Link provided advanced driver-assist capabilities, integrating navigation for predictive speed control. The Rogue's Intelligent Key allowed for convenient keyless entry.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention, but mixed headlight ratings. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall rating. Standard safety features included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and more.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue featured the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite, with standard automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and more. ProPilot Assist offered Level 2 driver-assist capabilities, enhancing safety features. The Rogue received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.