2022 Subaru Ascent vs 2022 Nissan Rogue

The 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced a new Onyx Edition trim level, which featured a blacked-out exterior trim that gave the SUV a sporty appearance. This trim level sat in the middle of the Ascent lineup, offering a unique grille design, black 20-inch aluminum wheels, and special interior trim. The Onyx Edition's interior was wrapped in water-repellant StarTex synthetic leather, available only in a gray two-tone scheme with light gray stitching. While the blacked-out treatment added a sporty flair, the StarTex material had a tendency to trap sweat, making ventilated seats a desirable feature, though only available on the Premier trim.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue continued its evolution with a mature and sophisticated design, carrying over the styling changes from the previous year. It featured Nissan’s V-motion grille, multi-level LED headlights, and a floating roof design. The interior boasted a layered dash with contrasting colours and surfaces, creating a detailed and tasteful look. The centre console was a highlight, with an electronic gear selector lever that freed up space for storage. The Rogue's cabin was equipped with Nissan’s Zero Gravity bucket-style front seats, providing comfort and ample space for passengers, while the fit and finish were exemplary, especially in the top-of-the-line Platinum model.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It came standard with a CVT and all-wheel drive, offering a fuel consumption rate of 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres combined. The Ascent's engine, with its flat-four layout, provided a lower centre of gravity for improved handling. The CVT featured eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, allowing for brisk acceleration and commendable passing power. The Ascent also boasted a towing capacity of up to 2,270 kilograms. Its X-Mode off-road traction control system, hill descent control, and 22 centimetres of ground clearance enhanced its off-roading capabilities. However, the lane-keeping and lane-centring assistance technologies could feel unstable, affecting driving satisfaction.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue received a performance boost with its new 1.5-litre VC-Turbo engine, delivering 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. This engine offered an 11 percent increase in horsepower and 24 percent more torque compared to the previous model. The Rogue's fuel consumption was impressive, with estimates of 7.8 litres per 100 kilometres city and 6.5 highway. The new CVT provided a wider range of gear ratios, enhancing acceleration and responsiveness. The Rogue's chassis and suspension delivered a smooth and controlled ride, with minimal body roll and good steering feel. The 10.8-metre turning diameter added to its maneuverability.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent could accommodate up to eight passengers, though the third row was best suited for children. The Ascent offered a comfortable driving position and was equipped for winter weather with features like heated front seats and a wiper de-icer. The second-row seats were easy to access, and the available captain’s chairs added convenience. The Ascent provided 458 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,193 litres with the second row folded, and a maximum of 2,061 litres with both rows down.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue offered a well-thought-out interior with numerous storage options, including bottle holders, cupholders, and various cubbies. The second-row seat was a 60/40 split reclining bench, providing flexibility for passengers and cargo. The Rogue's cargo area could hold up to 1,033 litres of luggage, expanding to 2,098 litres with the second row folded flat. The Rogue's interior was designed with practicality and convenience in mind, making it a versatile choice for families and commuters.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent came with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, and satellite radio. The Touring trim added an 8-inch display with Starlink connected services. While the infotainment system was user-friendly, the voice recognition technology needed improvement. The Onyx Edition used standard stereo speakers, but a premium sound system was not available for this trim. Additional technology features, like a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera, were reserved for the Premier trim.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue featured a technology upgrade with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 9-inch centre 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, a hands-on driver-assist technology, was available, offering advanced features like adaptive cruise control and steering assist. The Rogue's Intelligent Key allowed for convenient keyless entry, enhancing its practicality for families.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rating in rollover resistance. It came standard with Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technology, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centring technology. However, the system's performance could be affected by direct sunlight, and its adaptive cruise control and lane-centring lacked refinement. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and reverse automatic braking.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue featured the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite, including automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. It also had ten supplemental airbags and extended crumple zones for passive safety. ProPilot Assist offered advanced driver-assist features, and the enhanced ProPilot Assist with Navi-Link added predictive speed control. The Rogue received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.