2022 GMC Yukon vs 2023 Nissan Rogue

The 2022 GMC Yukon was a striking presence on the road, especially for those with a penchant for chrome. Even the base SLE model exuded a premium aura with its shiny accents, but it was the Denali trim that truly embraced the chrome aesthetic. The front of the Denali was dominated by a vast, multi-dimensional grille, reminiscent of an industrial-sized cheese grater, flanked by GMC's signature C-shaped headlights. The 22-inch bright machined aluminum wheels, part of the optional Ultimate package, stood out against the dark Redwood Metallic paint, adding to the vehicle's commanding presence. Inside, the Yukon offered a spacious and tastefully crafted cabin with standard seating for eight, or seven with the available second-row captain's chairs. The Denali trim boasted four exclusive interior designs, with our test vehicle featuring the elegant Teak/Light Shale colour combo, enhancing the premium feel with contrasting colours, unique stitching, and natural wood details.

In contrast, the 2023 Nissan Rogue presented a more understated yet appealing design, with proper proportions and chiseled styling that conveyed a rugged sense of purpose. The Rogue lineup included S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims, with prices ranging from $30,898 to $43,748. Our test vehicle, a US-specification Platinum trim, featured all-wheel drive, two-tone paint, and a host of upscale upgrades, including soft, diamond-pattern leather seats. The Rogue's interior was designed for comfort and practicality, with a triple-zone automatic climate control system, a dual-panel panoramic sunroof, and Nissan's Zero Gravity seat designs. However, the rear seat comfort was less impressive, with a low-mounted cushion and diamond-shaped quilted pleats that felt like sitting on bubble wrap. Despite this, the Rogue offered a good balance of ride compliance and body control, making it a reliable choice for families.

The 2022 GMC Yukon offered a choice of three engines, including a 5.3-litre V8 engine with 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, standard on all trims except the Denali. The Denali and AT4 trims featured a 6.2-litre V8 engine producing 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, a 3.0-litre turbodiesel four-cylinder engine, known as the "Baby Duramax," was available on all trims except the AT4, delivering 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Yukon boasted a maximum towing capacity of 3,810 kilograms with the 5.3-litre engine and the Max Trailering Package. The independent rear suspension provided better handling and a smoother ride, although some bouncing was noted over rutted pavement. The optional air ride adaptive suspension enhanced ride quality and off-road capability.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue, on the other hand, featured a new turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine with a variable compression design, producing 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), the Rogue offered Eco, Auto, and Sport driving modes, with additional Off-Road and Snow modes for AWD versions. The VC-Turbo powertrain provided responsive performance in urban settings, though it lacked passing power on the highway. The Rogue's fuel economy was slightly below expectations, averaging 8.1 L/100 km. The SUV employed a strut-type front and multi-link rear suspension, with Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control enhancing ride quality and cornering. Despite some lateral and vertical body motion on undulating roads, the Rogue maintained a secure handling character.

The 2022 GMC Yukon excelled in interior space, offering ample room for passengers and cargo. The redesign increased third-row legroom by over 25 centimetres to 886 mm, while cargo space behind the third row expanded to 722 litres. The second-row seats folded flat, and power fold-and-tumble bucket seats were available for easy access to the third row. The power-sliding centre console revealed additional storage space, and power-retractable, illuminated assist steps facilitated entry and exit. The pushbutton transmission controls, located to the left of the infotainment touchscreen, required some acclimation but became intuitive with use.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue, as a compact SUV, served as a practical family vehicle with a roomy interior for four adults and the option to carry a fifth passenger. The Platinum trim featured premium semi-aniline leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. However, the rear seat comfort was lacking, with a low-mounted cushion and diamond-shaped quilted pleats. The Rogue offered a hands-free power liftgate, providing up to 1,028 litres of cargo space behind the back seat. The Divide-N-Hide feature allowed for versatile cargo configurations, expanding the space to 2,064 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 GMC Yukon came equipped with a 12-inch reconfigurable driver information centre, a 15-inch multi-colour head-up display, and a 10.2-inch touchscreen with Google Built-In. The infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Denali trim featured a Bose 14-speaker audio system and a rear-seat media system with dual 12.6-inch LCD HD touchscreens. However, the sound quality of the Bose system was not as impressive as expected.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue featured an older version of Nissan's infotainment system, with an 8-inch or 9-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, satellite radio, wireless Apple CarPlay, and wired Android Auto. The test vehicle included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a head-up display. The voice recognition technology was limited, struggling with specific requests. The Rogue's infotainment system offered a wireless smartphone charging pad and a Bose premium audio system, though the voice recognition left room for improvement.

The 2022 GMC Yukon was equipped with GMC's Pro Safety suite, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The Pro Safety Plus package added blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear park assist. The Safety Alert Seat and rear camera mirror enhanced safety further. The Yukon received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with five stars for side crash protection.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue boasted a comprehensive suite of safety features, including 10 airbags, Safety Shield 360, and ProPilot Assist with Navi-link. The Rogue earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. ProPilot Assist provided adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance, with clear digital instrumentation and effective lane-departure warning.