2022 Ford Expedition vs 2023 Nissan Rogue

The 2022 Ford Expedition showcased a host of exterior updates that significantly enhanced its visual appeal. The changes included a new grille, headlights, and a refreshed bumper at the front, giving it a modern and robust look. At the rear, the Expedition flaunted updated taillights, tailgate trim, and a new bumper. New wheel designs appeared across the various trim levels, aligning the SUV’s stance with its adventurous character.

The Expedition offered multiple trims: XL STX, XLT, Limited, King Ranch, and Platinum, in both standard-length and extended-length (Expedition Max) body styles. Prices ranged from just over $55,000 to nearly $84,000, inclusive of the destination charge. The new Timberline trim catered to off-road enthusiasts, providing standard four-wheel drive (4WD), all-terrain tires, suspension modifications, extra ground clearance, and advanced off-roading tech such as Trail Turn Assist, priced at approximately $72,500.

The interior saw a redesigned dashboard housing the new Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems. The latter boasted a substantial 15.5-inch touchscreen in portrait orientation. Leather-lined seating, a wide array of tech features, and new digital instrumentation added to the luxurious feel. While the test model’s price tag of $80,155 was steep, the investment was reflected in the high-quality materials and advanced technology.

In contrast, the 2023 Nissan Rogue maintained a safe and appealing design in line with consumer preferences. Offering proper proportions and rugged SUV detailing, the Rogue aimed to attract buyers with its handsomely chiseled styling.

The Rogue lineup included S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims, with prices from $27,360 to $37,140, plus a $1,295 destination charge. Optional Premium packages were available for SV, SL, and Platinum trims, while the new Midnight Edition package was exclusive to the SV trim.

Our test vehicle, a Platinum trim with the Premium option package and additional upgrades like AWD and two-tone paint, cost $43,100. Although this set it in entry-luxury territory, overlapping with the Infiniti QX50, it delivered high-quality upgrades. The diamond-pattern leather seats, ambient lighting, and advanced controls brought a touch of luxury to the compact SUV segment.

The V6 engine powered the rear wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission, with optional 4WD. Fuel economy in combined driving ranged from 17 to 19 mpg, though our test vehicle averaged 16.2 mpg. The Expedition boasted towing capabilities between 9,000 and 9,300 pounds, depending on the model and equipment.

Driving dynamics were robust, although the sport-tuned suspension of the Stealth Edition occasionally resulted in a bumpy ride on uneven surfaces. The 22-inch wheels and 285/45 tires, while improving handling and grip, contributed to ride harshness. However, parking was remarkably easy thanks to excellent visibility, parking sensors, and a 360-degree camera system. The Expedition excelled on highways, offering a comfortable and quiet ride.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue was powered by a new turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with variable compression design, known as the VC-Turbo. This engine produced 201 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 225 pound-feet of torque from 2,800 to 4,000 rpm. Paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and available AWD, the Rogue offered Eco, Auto, and Sport driving modes, with Off-Road and Snow modes for AWD versions.

Although the new powertrain felt responsive in urban settings, it lacked passing power on highways. The engine's sound and vibration were noticeable, potentially unsettling for some drivers. Fuel economy was rated at 31 mpg in combined driving, but our test vehicle fell short at 28.9 mpg.

The Rogue's driving aids included Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, contributing to a smooth ride. It handled speed bumps well but showed more body motion on undulating pavement. Tires provided modest grip, and steering feedback was minimal. Nonetheless, the Rogue maintained a secure handling character.

The full-size 2022 Ford Expedition provided exceptional comfort with its spacious cabin and easy ingress, thanks to available power running boards. Front passengers enjoyed power-adjustable, leather-wrapped, heated, and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. A wide center console offered ample storage, cupholders, and a wireless charging pad. Massaging seats were available on higher trims.

Second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom and personalized climate controls, though toe room was slightly tight. Third-row access was effortless, with ample leg support and storage trays. Cargo space behind the third row was 19.3 cubic feet, expandable to 57.5 cubic feet with the third row folded. The Expedition Max offered even more space, with capacities of 34.3 cubic feet behind the third row and 121.5 cubic feet with all rear seats folded.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue presented a practical alternative to traditional family cars. It comfortably accommodated four adults, with the option to fit a fifth person. Our Platinum trim test vehicle featured a triple-zone automatic climate control system and a dual-panel panoramic sunroof. Front seats were power-adjustable and heated, but ventilation was not available.

Nissan's Zero Gravity front seats were designed for comfort, though the passenger seat lacked height adjustment. Visibility was good, but the key fob’s design was impractical, requiring a flashlight to identify buttons in low light. The rear seat offered ample space and features like rear climate controls, USB ports, and heated outboard seats. However, the rear seat's comfort was lacking, with a low cushion and uncomfortable pleats.

Cargo capacity was 36.5 cubic feet behind the back seat, expandable to 74.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Nissan’s Divide-N-Hide feature allowed for configurable storage solutions, enhancing practicality.

The 2022 Ford Expedition featured the next-generation Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems. The standard Sync 4 system included a 12-inch touchscreen, while Sync 4A offered a 15.5-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and advanced voice recognition. Available Bang & Olufsen sound systems provided excellent audio quality, although some quirks were noted in the voice recognition and user interface.

Ford’s Pro Trailer Backup Assist 2.0 and Trailer Reverse Guidance simplified trailer maneuvering. The upgraded rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV allowed streaming and content downloads.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue used an older infotainment system with an 8-inch or optional 9-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and wireless Apple CarPlay. The test vehicle included a 9-inch touchscreen, Bose premium audio, and a head-up display. Alexa Built-in struggled with voice commands, making it less reliable. The 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and HUD worked well, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Ford Expedition offered three Ford Co-Pilot360 safety packages. The standard package included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Starting with Limited trim, Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, speed-limit recognition, intersection assist, and evasive steering assist. Higher trims included Co-Pilot Assist 2.0, with a surround-view camera, rear automatic braking, and Active Park Assist 2.0. BlueCruise hands-free driving technology was available, offering semi-autonomous driving on approved highways.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue came with Safety Shield 360, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, rear automatic braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-departure warning. Higher trims offered ProPilot Assist with Navi-link, combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. The Rogue earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, though it scored lower in some updated crash tests.