2022 Cadillac XT5 vs 2022 Nissan Rogue

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 presented a unique blend of styling, positioned between the angularity of the Lexus NX and the more traditional aesthetics of the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Mercedes-Benz GLC. It featured Cadillac’s signature design elements, such as a bold grille, distinctive daytime running lights, and vertical taillights reminiscent of classic Cadillacs. However, this combination resulted in an awkward mix with the XT5’s compact size and tall profile, making it unmistakably a Cadillac, albeit an ungainly one. The Premium Luxury and Sport models offered slightly different exterior styling cues, with the former showcasing bright chrome for a traditional look and the latter featuring darker trim and a mesh grille for a sportier appearance. The interior, while luxurious with the optional Platinum Package, lacked a strong design theme and brand-specific markers, leaving little to remind occupants they were in a Cadillac.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue, having undergone a significant redesign in 2021, continued to impress with its mature and sophisticated exterior styling. It shared several design features with other current-generation Nissan vehicles, including the V-motion grille and multi-level LED headlights. The SL and Platinum trims added LED fog lamps, while active grille shutters and underbody covers enhanced airflow. The floating roof illusion and slightly bulging liftgate contributed to its sleek appearance. Inside, the Rogue followed a layered dash design trend, offering a sophisticated and detailed look. The centre console, with its electronic gear selector lever, provided ample storage space, and the 9-inch infotainment display was conveniently positioned. The Rogue’s Zero Gravity front seats and roomy second row ensured comfort, while the fit and finish, especially on the Platinum model, were exemplary.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 offered two engine options: a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-litre V6 engine delivering 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The V6 engine, available on the Sport and optional on the Premium Luxury trims, provided a reasonably quick performance with smooth and quick shifts. The optional Platinum Package included a performance suspension with adaptive dampers, offering a comfortable ride with excellent body control. The steering was well-suited for a luxury vehicle, providing nimbleness without being overly sensitive. The quiet cabin further enhanced the luxury experience.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue introduced a new 1.5-litre VC-Turbo engine, producing 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque, a significant improvement over the previous model. The engine’s variable compression technology allowed for efficient power delivery, enhancing the Rogue’s performance in various driving situations. The new CVT transmission offered wider gear ratios, improving acceleration and responsiveness. The Rogue’s chassis and suspension handled the engine’s lively character well, delivering a smooth and controlled ride with minimal body roll. The electric power-assisted steering provided good feel, and the tight turning diameter added to its manoeuvrability.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 offered competitive interior space compared to German luxury crossovers, with more front headroom than the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC, though less than the BMW X3. It provided more legroom in both rows but trailed the Lincoln Corsair in front legroom. The seats were comfortable but could have used more padding, especially in the rear. The XT5 boasted 850 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,784 litres with them folded, surpassing the Q5, X3, and GLC. A hands-free power liftgate was available, and a small cubbyhole below the touchscreen offered additional storage.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue excelled in interior storage options, with numerous places to stash items, including bottle holders, cupholders, a glove compartment, and various cubbies. The rear seats offered additional storage and charging ports. The Rogue’s cargo area was impressive, accommodating up to 1,033 litres of luggage, expandable to 2,098 litres with the second row folded. This made it a practical choice for families and those needing ample cargo space.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. An optional Technology Package added an 8-inch digital instrument cluster and a head-up display. While usability was improved, the tech offerings were merely adequate compared to other luxury brands. The optional Bose Performance Series 14-speaker system provided excellent sound quality, enhanced by the XT5’s quiet interior.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue benefited from a technology upgrade, featuring 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 on higher trims. ProPilot Assist, integrated with the navigation system, offered advanced driver-assist capabilities, enhancing safety and convenience. Nissan’s Intelligent Key allowed for easy access to both front and rear doors, adding to the Rogue’s family-friendly features.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 came equipped with standard safety features such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The optional Driver Assist Package added adaptive cruise control and enhanced automatic emergency braking. The XT5 received top scores in IIHS crash tests and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, though it had a “Marginal” headlight rating and an “Acceptable” LATCH rating.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue featured the Safety Shield 360 suite, including automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning. ProPilot Assist offered advanced driver-assist capabilities, and the Rogue received a four-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS.