2023 Honda CR-V vs 2023 Nissan Rogue

The 2023 Honda CR-V adopted a more refined and slightly aggressive appearance with its blunt nose, grille, long hood, and extended wheelbase. While it lacked the distinct personality of its predecessor, the conservative styling was expected to age gracefully. The CR-V EX-L featured 18-inch alloy wheels and dark-tinted rear privacy glass, enhancing its sophisticated look. Inside, the leather-wrapped seats, steering wheel, and shift knob elevated the interior's quality, complemented by a dashboard design inspired by the latest Civic. The CR-V EX-L boasted a larger touchscreen infotainment system, power-adjustable front passenger seat, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and power rear liftgate, adding to its appeal. Pricing in Canada started at $34,240 for the CR-V LX-B with FWD, with the EX-L AWD priced at $43,390 before fees.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue maintained a balanced design with proper proportions and rugged SUV detailing, appealing to those seeking a handsome vehicle. The lineup included S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims, with prices ranging from $30,898 for the base S FWD to $43,748 for the Platinum, excluding a $1,920 destination charge. The Platinum trim, tested in a US-specification vehicle, featured AWD, two-tone paint, and a host of upscale upgrades, including diamond-pattern leather seats. While the Rogue's Platinum trim approached the price of the Infiniti QX50, it offered a comprehensive list of features, ensuring a comfortable and stylish ride.

The 2023 Honda CR-V retained its turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 190 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 179 lb-ft of torque between 1,700 rpm and 5,000 rpm. Despite the engine's robust performance, the CVT transmission detracted from the driving experience with its droning noise during acceleration. However, the CR-V excelled in ride and handling, with a well-tuned suspension, steering, and brakes. It managed speed bumps and uneven pavement with ease, providing a refined driving experience. The CR-V achieved impressive fuel economy, averaging 8.1 L/100 km on a mountainous route, slightly better than the expected 8.4 L/100 km.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue featured a new turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine with variable compression design, delivering 201 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 225 lb-ft of torque from 2,800 rpm to 4,000 rpm. The CVT, equipped with paddle shifters, powered the front wheels, with AWD available on higher trims. The Rogue offered multiple driving modes, including Eco, Auto, and Sport, with additional Off-Road and Snow modes for AWD versions. While the VC-Turbo powertrain improved responsiveness, it lacked highway passing power and emitted an unusual engine note. The Rogue averaged 8.1 L/100 km, slightly below the expected 7.7 L/100 km. The SUV's ride quality and cornering were enhanced by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, though the steering felt lifeless.

The 2023 Honda CR-V claimed to be the roomiest yet, though the driver's seat felt more car-like than SUV-like. The second row offered more space, resembling a midsize model, with ample thigh support and rear legroom. Storage options were plentiful, with a large centre armrest bin and various trays and bins throughout the cabin. The CR-V's cargo area provided 1,113 litres of space, expandable to 2,166 litres with the rear seats folded. The Hybrid model offered slightly less cargo space.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue served as a practical family car replacement, accommodating four people comfortably and a fifth in a pinch. The Platinum trim featured premium leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Rogue's Zero Gravity seat designs provided comfort, though the rear seat lacked leg support. Storage was abundant, but unlined compartments could cause noise. The Rogue's cargo area offered up to 1,028 litres of space, expandable to 2,064 litres with the back seats folded. The Divide-N-Hide feature allowed for versatile cargo configurations.

The 2023 Honda CR-V featured a 7-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The EX-L trim added a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless connectivity, SiriusXM, and an upgraded sound system. While the technology was improved, it lacked innovation compared to competitors. The CR-V's safety features were comprehensive but not groundbreaking.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue used an older infotainment system with an 8-inch or 9-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and smartphone integration. The test vehicle included a Bose audio system, navigation, and a wireless charging pad. Voice recognition was limited, and the system struggled with certain requests. The Rogue also featured a 12.3-inch digital display and a head-up display, though the latter was not tested with polarized sunglasses.

The 2023 Honda CR-V improved its driver assist systems under the Honda Sensing umbrella, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. New features included a seatbelt reminder, rear-seat reminder, and traffic sign recognition. The CR-V's Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure and new airbag designs enhanced safety. The IIHS rated it as a Top Safety Pick+, though the NHTSA had not yet tested it.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue offered extensive safety features, including 10 airbags, Safety Shield 360, and ProPilot Assist with Navi-link. The latter combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centring assistance, working well on highways. The Rogue earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, though it received lower scores in updated crash tests. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall rating, with four stars for frontal-impact collisions.