2022 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2022 Nissan Rogue

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT trim did not impress with its new treatment. The lack of a suspension lift and more aggressive tires made it less convincing for off-roading. The side steps, while useful for roof rack access, impeded entry and exit and reduced the breakover angle. The XRT trim, priced between the SE/SEL and the turbocharged Limited/Calligraphy trims, came with either FWD or AWD, starting at $34,095. The test vehicle, in Portofino Gray with a black cloth interior, lacked visual contrast, resembling an old black-and-white image. However, the interior's thoughtful design and high quality made it a pleasant space despite not being as upscale as higher trims.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue, redesigned in 2021, continued with its mature styling. It featured Nissan’s V-motion grille, multi-level LED headlights, and active grille shutters for improved airflow. The floating roof and bulging liftgate added to its sleek look. Inside, the Rogue had a layered dash with contrasting colors and surfaces, giving it a sophisticated appearance. The center console, with an electronic gear selector, provided ample storage space. The 9-inch infotainment display and Zero Gravity front seats enhanced the cabin's appeal. The second row offered good legroom and comfort for passengers.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT was equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. This engine, while adequate for freeway speeds and cruising, lacked the power for quick acceleration or climbing hills. The eight-speed automatic transmission performed well, with pushbutton controls for gear selection. The Santa Fe offered various driving modes, including Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow, with AWD lock and hill descent control. The test vehicle averaged 22.3 mpg, slightly below the EPA rating of 24 mpg. The ride quality was good, with excellent suspension isolation and a quiet cabin. However, the XRT’s cosmetic enhancements did not improve its off-road capabilities.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue featured a new 1.5-liter 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 and efficiency. The Rogue achieved impressive fuel economy, with EPA estimates of 30 mpg city/37 mpg highway/33 mpg combined. The new CVT transmission provided better acceleration and responsiveness. The Rogue’s chassis and suspension delivered a smooth ride with minimal body roll, and the electric power-assisted steering offered good feel. The Rogue’s performance was lively and efficient, making it a more engaging drive.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT included dual-zone automatic climate control and rear air conditioning vents. The eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, covered in stain-resistant fabric, provided good comfort, though the front passenger seat lacked height adjustment. The rear seats offered ample space and comfort, with rear side-window shades and USB charging ports. The Smart Tailgate feature allowed hands-free opening but could be overly sensitive. The Santa Fe had 36.4 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 72.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, though the process required manual effort.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue excelled in interior storage, with numerous compartments and charging ports for both front and rear passengers. The second-row seat was a 60/40 split reclining bench, providing flexibility. The Rogue offered 31.6-36.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 74.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat. The Rogue’s interior was designed for practicality and comfort, making it a versatile choice for families and commuters.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with large knobs and clean graphics. The XRT also included Bluelink connected services with remote engine start and a car finding feature. However, the XRT lacked the larger 10.25-inch touchscreen and Harman Kardon sound system available in higher trims. The digital key technology was limited to Android devices, and the Leading Vehicle Departure Alert was a useful feature for distracted drivers.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue’s technology upgrade included a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 9-inch center infotainment touchscreen, and a 10.8-inch head-up display on upper trims. The Rogue offered navigation with Google Maps and Waze, and wireless Apple CarPlay on higher trims. ProPilot Assist, available with Navi-Link, integrated navigation for predictive speed control. The Intelligent Key allowed for easy access to both front and rear doors. The Rogue’s technology suite was comprehensive and user-friendly, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT came with Hyundai SmartSense, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-centering assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Junction Turning Detection and Safe Exit Assist added extra layers of safety. The ultrasonic rear occupant alert system monitored the interior for movement, and Bluelink provided additional safety features. The Santa Fe earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance score.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue featured the Safety Shield 360 suite, including automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, high beam assist, and rear automatic braking. The Rogue had ten airbags and extended crumple zones for passive safety. ProPilot Assist offered advanced driver-assist features, with enhanced capabilities on models with Navi-Link. The Rogue received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for the 2021 model.