2021 Acura RDX vs 2022 Nissan Rogue

In 2021, the Acura RDX A-Spec captivated automotive enthusiasts with its sleek design and sporty appeal. Despite its performance-oriented cues, Acura smartly avoided over-the-top aesthetics, managing an understated elegance. The RDX’s design refrained from mimicking off-road SUVs, completely forgoing oversized skid plates or exaggerated fender flares—a testament to its on-road intentions rather than rugged off-road capability. The visual intrigue extended into the A-Spec’s pricing stratification. Base RDX models started at $38,200, while the Technology Package nudged the cost to $41,100. The A-Spec, known for its signature sporty elements, brought the sticker price to $44,100, with the fully loaded Advance Package flattening wallets at $46,000. Adding Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system came at an additional $2,000. For those insisting on the exacting “Platinum White” exterior paint, a Platinum paint-equipped RDX A-Spec SH-AWD reached $47,625—destination fee included. The A-Spec interior showcased design excellence, integrating upmarket touches like front sport seats with faux suede inserts, a contoured sport steering wheel, and ambient red cabin lighting. The sporty feel extended to brushed aluminum trim and unique instrumentation, although the gauge cluster with red-on-silver markings proved challenging to read during daylight hours. Despite occasional criticisms, such as the divisive True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system and somewhat illegible gauge cluster, the Acura RDX distinguished itself with an upscale yet dynamic cabin environment crafted with carefully considered materials and design cues. Conversely, the 2022 Nissan Rogue had gained maturity without losing its charm. The redesign of prior years endowed it with a sophisticated demeanor devoid of excessive ornamentation. Resembling its Pathfinder sibling, the Rogue featured a pronounced V-motion grille, multi-level LED headlights and, in higher trims, LED fog lamps. Subtleties like active grille shutters and underbody covers enhanced aerodynamics, while the “floating roof” illusion lent an air of sophistication, completed with a slightly pronounced liftgate. Inside, the Rogue’s layered dash adhered to contemporary design trends, meticulously curated to evoke a sense of elegance. The center console, innovatively designed with an electronic gear selector, boasted expansive under-console storage—ideal for everyday essentials. Wireless charging pads, intuitively placed cupholder slots, and accessible storage cubbies enhanced utility and convenience. Upper trims offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 9-inch infotainment screen, and Nissan’s renowned Zero Gravity seats, complementing the already roomy second-row that promised comfort for two adult passengers or a trio in a pinch. From the finesse in its build quality to the thoughtful material selection in top-tier trims, the 2022 Rogue delivered a refined and comfortable driving environment that rivaled more luxurious SUVs, without losing sight of practicality and user-friendly design.

In the performance domain, the 2021 Acura RDX wielded a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, dispensing 272 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 280 lb-ft of torque from 1,600 to 4,500 rpm. All RDX models, regardless of trim, shared this spirited powerplant, paired with a sophisticated 10-speed automatic transmission. Optional SH-AWD augmented handling, particularly in inclement conditions, shifting up to 70% of engine power to the rear wheels and further to individual wheels as necessary. The Integrated Dynamics System, accessible via a prominent silver knob, enabled drivers to toggle between Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ modes, tailoring powertrain and chassis responses to varying driving conditions. The A-Spec variant’s exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels with performance all-season tires enhanced grip and sportiness, although the lack of adaptive dampers slightly marred overall comfort on imperfect roads. The RDX A-Spec proved rewarding to drive, boasting robust torque curves, precise steering, and dependable brakes, even if some desired adaptations found in the Advance Package were absent. Its turbo engine, paired with engaging driving modes, provided an exhilarating yet manageable driving experience. The 2022 Nissan Rogue, meanwhile, saw substantive performance updates with a new 1.5-liter VC-Turbo three-cylinder engine, generating 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque—a noteworthy 11% power boost from previous models. The VC-Turbo technology dynamically adjusted compression ratios, optimizing power output and efficiency based on driving demands. This engine, paired with a refined CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), ensured strong initial acceleration and responsive passing capabilities. The Rogue’s improved chassis and suspension skillfully managed the increased power, delivering a composed ride with minimal body roll. Its electric power-assisted steering provided good feedback, and the tight turning diameter facilitated urban maneuverability. The upgraded fuel economy, rated at 30 mpg city/37 mpg highway/33 mpg combined, made the Rogue an economically astute choice, particularly for long-distance commuters.

Cycling into a pivotal segment of utility, the 2021 Acura RDX slightly faltered. Though positioned as a compact SUV, it managed commendable passenger and cargo volumes, enhancing its overall value proposition. The front seats, ever comfortable and supportive, offered extensive adjustments including heating and ventilation—hallmarks of Acura’s plush features. However, rear seat comfort was a mixed bag. Necessary compromises for cargo versatility meant rear passengers had lower leg support due to the seat's design, leading to less than ideal comfort during extended journeys. Likewise, the rear seatback's excessive recline could encourage an awkward seating position. The RDX’s storage solutions were pragmatic if not exceptional. With the rear seats up, the cargo space measured 29.5 cubic feet, expanding to 58.9 cubic feet with the seats folded—adequate but not class-topping. Nonetheless, small enhancements like the helpful side storage well in the cargo area, organized underfloor compartments, and a disputedly expansive 79.8 cubic feet with the front seats forward echoed versatility. The 2022 Nissan Rogue excelled in practical utility with thoughtful storage solutions throughout the cabin. Enhanced storage options placed practically everywhere—a reflection of Nissan’s family-oriented design ethos. The ample cargo space, ranging from 31.6 to 36.5 cubic feet behind the second row and expanding to 74.1 cubic feet with seats folded, promised flexibility for various lifestyles. Interior design catered to passenger comfort with USB ports, climate controls, and ample storage for rear occupants. Foldable and reclining second-row seats further enhanced the user-friendly design. The Rogue’s interior seamlessly blended comfort, storage compliance, and new-age convenience.

The Acura RDX’s True Touchpad Interface (TTI) represented an ambitious divergence from traditional touchscreens, aiming to mitigate distraction by mirroring the touchpad area to screen zones directly. However, despite offering a novel user experience, the interface carried a learning curve, proving cumbersome compared to more intuitive touch-based controls. While TTI represented a step forward, it wasn’t completely free of criticisms due to inadvertent inputs and a somewhat demanding acclimatization phase. Nonetheless, Acura integrated key technologies well, with separate physical controls for stereo and climate functions, and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The A-Spec’s indulgent audio setup with a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D premium system added a high-fidelity soundtrack to the driving experience. In contrast, the 2022 Nissan Rogue leveraged recent technological advances smartly, incorporating sizable and ergonomic displays. Its 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 9-inch touchscreen, and augmented 10.8-inch head-up display logically unified information and accessibility without overwhelming the driver. Nissan’s ProPilot Assist showcased a step toward semi-autonomous driving, effectively integrating navigation for proactive adjustments based on real-time conditions. Coupled with Google Maps, Waze integration, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, the Rogue’s technology suite was comprehensive and future-forward, appealing to tech-savvy drivers.

Safety features in the 2021 Acura RDX were robust, bundled under the AcuraWatch suite. Features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Nevertheless, the omission of blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert from the base model, requiring an upgrade to the Technology Package, was notable. The RDX earned top marks from the IIHS with a Top Safety Pick+ rating and solid yet slightly compromised scores from the NHTSA. Conversely, the 2022 Nissan Rogue epitomized proactive safety with the Safety Shield 360 suite standard across trims. Features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert provided comprehensive coverage. The Rogue’s ProPilot Assist elevated safety further, combining adaptive cruise with lane-keeping for an assured driving experience. Despite lacking broader crash-test data for 2022, the 2021 model's Top Safety Pick+ rating suggested a continued emphasis on occupant protection.