2022 GMC Terrain vs 2022 Nissan Rogue

For the 2022 GMC Terrain, the vehicle underwent several significant updates, including front styling, wheel designs, taillights, and interior trim enhancement. The introduction of the AT4 trim took things a notch higher with its bolder grille design, black 17-inch alloy wheels clad in sport-terrain tires, and AT4 badges. Recognizing its claim as a "small off-road SUV," GMC equipped the AT4 trim with a steel skid plate under the front end to protect critical mechanical components. The test model, boasting extra-cost Ebony Twilight metallic paint and a black leather interior, looked sleek but proved impractical for staying clean.

Equipped with the Tech Package, Infotainment Package II, GMC Pro Safety Plus Package, a panoramic sunroof, and a three-year OnStar subscription, the MSRP came up to $41,810. However, more affordable trim levels like the SLE and SLT were available, with the option of front-wheel drive to save costs. The Denali trim added a luxury element to the model range.

The Terrain clearly positioned itself as an entry-level model within GMC's lineup, especially seen in the quality of materials and detail execution. The head-up display, rather than projecting data onto the windshield, displayed information on a clear plastic panel that popped up from the dashboard, indicating its less-premium leanings. Inventory controls, too, were a concern; the push-button transmission system was not particularly intuitive and space allocated was too limited to fit a smartphone—a notable oversight.

When the price exceeded $40,000, expectations for the interior rose. Although the caramel-colored contrast stitching in the AT4 was appealing, the cabin fell short of delivering the "craftsmanship at its finest" that GMC proclaimed.

On the flip side, the 2022 Nissan Rogue boasted maturity in design, maintaining the adult persona it adopted in 2021. Sharing common design elements with the newer Pathfinder, it featured Nissan’s V-motion grille, multi-level LED headlights, daylight running lights, and, in the SL and Platinum trims, LED fog lamps. The active grille shutters and underbody covers, combined with an “air curtain” feature, worked towards better airflow, giving the Rogue a streamlined appearance. Its floating roof illusion and subtly bulging liftgate polished off its exterior charm.

Inside, the Rogue’s layered dashboard was both sophisticated and practical. Different surfaces and contrasting colors in select trims added to its detailing. The center console, adopting an electronic gear lever, maximized space, allowing for practical use such as storing a purse or other items beneath it. Complemented by large cupholders, a wireless charging pad, and a storage bin below the center armrest, the Rogue’s infotainment setup—a 9-inch center display and either a 7-inch or 12.3-inch digital instrument panel in different trims—promoted a driver-centric design.

The Rogue’s Zero Gravity bucket-style front seats and spacious second row offered comfort and utility. Fit and finish were top-notch, especially in the Platinum model.

The 2022 GMC Terrain was equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. Its former turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, which offered better acceleration and a 3,500-pound towing capacity, didn’t return for 2022. The new engine managed a more modest 1,500-pound towing capacity.

The 1.5-liter engine’s 170 ponies kicked in at 5,600 rpm, and a substantial torque range between 2,000 and 4,000 rpm required drivers to adapt for optimal performance. Although there was a noticeable delay off the line, the nine-speed automatic transmission helped keep the Terrain within its torque band. Compared to competitors, the GMC’s turbocharging aided its performance, especially at higher altitudes. Yet, the 2.0-liter turbo was sorely missed for its swift acceleration.

Terrain AT4’s handling capabilities included modes like FWD for fuel efficiency, AWD when needed, and Off-Road mode coupled with Hill Descent Control. In FWD, torque steer was notable, pushing the vehicle sideways during acceleration. AWD mode resolved that smoothly.

The AT4’s four-wheel independent suspension, 17-inch wheels, and a ground clearance of 7.9 inches delivered a balanced ride across various terrains, though some competitors bettered this figure. While the sport-terrain tires and suspension absorbed road imperfections admirably, the vehicle wasn’t as inspiring on challenging off-road paths, with occasional scraping even in minor obstacles. Highway and city drives remained generally quiet and smooth except for occasional tire noise. Fuel economy was commendable, matching its EPA rating of 26 mpg, backed by mixed driving experiences.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue’s performance was significantly uplifted by its new engine— a 1.5-liter VC-Turbo with a three-cylinder inline configuration, pushing 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. This engine was 11% more powerful and showed a 24% torque improvement over the 2021’s 2.5-liter version, rejuvenating the Rogue’s driving character across different conditions.

Fuel efficiency saw an improvement, achieving 30 mpg city/37 mpg highway/33 mpg combined, aligning well with current economic expectations. Though retaining a CVT, the newly calibrated gear ratios ensured better response and acceleration, reducing the unappealing CVT drone frequently discussed by critics. Manual transmission lovers were not catered for, but automatic transmission smoothness was notable.

The Rogue’s enhanced chassis and suspension managed the engine’s vigor, ensuring a comfortable, controlled ride with minimal body roll. Its electric power-assisted steering and small turning circle were perfect for maneuverability in tight spaces.

The 2022 GMC Terrain interior, while not thrilling to drive, focused on convenience. The AT4 trim with power-adjustable and heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone automatic climate control, ensured a comfortable environment with effective climate adjustments. Its leather upholstery, accentuated with sophisticated stitching, provided an upscale feel, and the back seat offered plenty of space and comfort, including rear USB ports for device charging.

Storage solutions were aplenty, although some spaces, like the narrow storage tray, fell short of practicality. Cargo space measured at 29.6 cubic feet behind the seats, expanding to 63.3 cubic feet with seats folded down, along with an extended space accessible by folding the front passenger seat flat.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue stood out with its thoughtful interior design and numerous storage options for modern needs. Areas such as bottle holders, the center console, a glove box, and various cubbies aimed to cater to different storage needs, complemented by multiple USB ports and outlets, including a wireless charging pad.

The rear seat passengers benefitted from additional storage and charging options, facilitating convenience. The second-row split reclining bench was adaptable for different Transport Needs. Cargo space was generous, offering between 31.6 and 36.5 cubic feet behind the second row and a spacious 74.1 cubic feet when folded flat.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered varying infotainment systems across its trim levels. The high-definition 8-inch touchscreen built into the AT4 and Denali trims featured wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, SiriusXM, and OnStar services. The connected navigation system, paired with natural voice recognition and a Bose premium audio system, facilitated an intuitive user experience.

Most notable was the voice recognition system, which responded accurately and promptly to various commands. The head-up display, though not premium, included vital driving information, supported by additional features like front and rear park assist sensors and a surround-view camera.

Key technology features included a remote engine start system and a Tire Fill Alert—a practical guide to tire pressure adjustments.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue’s technology was exceedingly modern, supporting effortless connectivity and driver-assist features. Key highlights were the 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, 9-inch center infotainment touchscreen, and a 10.8-inch head-up display. Integration with Google Maps and Waze alongside wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto enhanced navigational ease.

ProPilot Assist led its driver-assist capabilities, utilizing navigation data for proactive control adjustments on the road— a stride towards semi-autonomous driving. The Intelligent Key also saw enhancements, allowing convenient access to all doors with a rear door tap.

The 2022 GMC Terrain ensured a safe journey with its GMC Pro Safety Package. Standard features included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, automatic high-beam headlights, and a following distance indicator. Upgraded options through the Safety Plus Package added adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a Safety Alert Seat.

The Terrain received mostly “Good” crash-test scores from the IIHS and had not been rated by the NHTSA during the review period.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue featured the comprehensive Nissan Safety Shield 360 across all trims, which included automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, high beam assist, and rear automatic braking. It also had additional airbags and crumple zones for passive safety.

The advanced ProPilot Assist with Navi-Link used navigational cues for smarter safety assistance. The Rogue received a four-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS for its 2021 version, with 2022 evaluations pending.