2022 Toyota Highlander vs 2022 Nissan Rogue

The 2022 Toyota Highlander boasted a modern and somewhat aggressive front-end design, with flared fender arches and a distinctive third-row window that gave it a compact appearance despite its spacious interior. Inside, the Highlander offered ample cabin space and clever storage solutions, making it ideal for families. The XSE trim, in particular, stood out with its bold red leather interior, unique exterior styling, ambient lighting, and sport-tuned suspension. The Highlander was available in several trims, including LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum, each offering a range of features from standard all-wheel drive and an 8-inch touchscreen to premium audio systems and panoramic moonroofs.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue, on the other hand, continued its evolution with a mature and sophisticated design. It featured Nissan's V-motion grille, multi-level LED headlights, and a sleek floating roof design. The interior showcased a layered dash with contrasting colours and a centre console with an electronic gear selector, providing ample storage space. The Rogue's Zero Gravity front seats and roomy second row offered comfort for passengers, while the fit and finish were exemplary, especially in the top-of-the-line Platinum model. The Rogue's design was both practical and stylish, appealing to families and commuters alike.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. This power was channelled through an eight-speed automatic transmission to standard all-wheel drive, with no front-wheel drive option in Canada. The Highlander offered a drive-mode button with Sport, Normal, and Eco modes, as well as an AWD system with Mud/Sand, Rock, and Normal modes. The V6 engine provided good pickup, especially at highway speeds, and the sport-tuned suspension in the XSE trim reduced body roll while maintaining a comfortable ride. The Highlander could tow up to 2,268 kilograms and had a max payload of 775 kilograms.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue featured a new 1.5-litre VC-Turbo engine with 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, a significant improvement over the previous model. The engine's variable compression technology allowed for better power delivery and fuel efficiency, with estimates of 7.8 litres per 100 kilometres city and 6.5 highway. The Rogue's CVT transmission offered wider gear ratios, enhancing acceleration and responsiveness. The chassis and suspension provided a smooth ride with minimal body roll, and the electric power-assisted steering offered good feel and a tight turning diameter.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander offered up to 2,387 litres of cargo space with the second- and third-row seats folded. With the second-row seats in use, there was 1,370 litres of cargo space, and 453 litres with all seats deployed. The Highlander's interior was designed for practicality, with deep cargo pockets, multiple storage compartments, and cupholders throughout. The XSE trim featured second-row captain’s chairs, providing a centre aisle to the rear seats, which was beneficial for families.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue provided 1,033 litres of cargo space, expandable to 2,098 litres with the second row folded flat. The Rogue's interior was equipped with numerous storage options, including bottle holders, cupholders, and various cubbies. The second-row seat was a 60/40 split reclining bench, offering flexibility for passengers and cargo. The Rogue's design catered to the needs of families and commuters, with ample space and convenience features.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Bluetooth connectivity and five USB ports. The XSE trim included a wireless charging pad and additional USB ports. A larger 12.3-inch touchscreen and an 11-speaker JBL premium stereo system were available on higher trims, offering enhanced audio and infotainment experiences.

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 with Navi-Link offered advanced driver-assist capabilities, integrating navigation for predictive speed control.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander was equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense suite, including forward collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and more. It also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and eight airbags. The Highlander received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.

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