2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2023 Nissan Rogue

Examining the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, it was clear that the design remained true to its Jeep lineage, with signature features like the seven-slot grille and trapezoidal wheel arches. The shorter, sportier two-row, five-passenger Grand Cherokee evolved from the previous year's Grand Cherokee L, sharing much of its style and powertrain options. Available in trims such as Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve, the Grand Cherokee's prices ranged from $37,390 to $63,365, excluding the $1,795 destination charge.

Offering a range of exterior paint colors and a black roof option on certain models, the Grand Cherokee made a solid first impression. Inside, it promised varying degrees of comfort and luxury depending upon the trim. From the basic yet high-quality Laredo to the exceptionally opulent Summit Reserve, which included premium leather, heated and ventilated seats, and a high-end McIntosh audio system, it catered to diverse preferences. However, higher trims had some control reflections due to the gloss black finish, unlike the more pragmatic matte-black finishes in lower trims.

Conversely, the 2023 Nissan Rogue boasted well-proportioned and stylish chiseled design, capable of appealing to a broad audience. Available in S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims, it was priced between $27,360 to $37,140, plus a $1,295 destination charge. Upgrades and special packages like the Midnight Edition provided further customization options.

Our test model was the Platinum trim, packed with features including all-wheel drive, two-tone paint, and several convenience and aesthetic enhancements. Even with a price hitting $43,100, which delved into the territory of Nissan’s luxury brand, the Rogue Platinum did not leave buyers wanting in terms of its overall quality. Diamond-pattern leather seats and soft-touch materials complemented its upscale appearance, though the cargo cover added an inflated price.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered both RWD and 4WD configurations, with engine options including a 3.6-liter V6 generating 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and an optional 5.7-liter V8 producing 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. Three different 4WD systems were present: Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II, each offering escalating degrees of off-road prowess.

With a maximum towing capacity of 7,200 pounds (using the V8), the Grand Cherokee came fitted with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the fuel economy varied between 17 to 21 mpg in combined driving. While the V8 delivered a thrilling drive, the V6 was noted for being a more balanced option, offering good efficiency and adequate power.

The trail-focused Grand Cherokee Trailhawk featured standard Quadra-Drive II, an electronic locking rear differential, high ground clearance, and Selec-Terrain driving modes to tackle varied environments, making it a standout for off-road enthusiasts. Its performance was robust both on and off the road, although the V6’s soundtrack might not inspire the same passion as the V8’s.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue swapped its former 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine for a new 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder VC-Turbo engine that produced 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a CVT, the Rogue offered FWD or optional AWD with various driving modes tailored for different conditions.

Though the VC-Turbo engine provided responsive power for city driving, it wasn’t as commendable for highway passing. The Rogue's EPA rating suggested 31 mpg in combined driving, but our test achieved just 28.9 mpg. Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control enhanced its ride quality, though its handling fell short of exceptional due to its lifeless steering feel.

In the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, superior comfort was noted across the trim levels. While higher trims added luxurious touches like heated and ventilated seats and panoramic sunroofs, even the base Laredo model managed to impress with its quality finishes. Improved visibility and supportive front seats were highlights, though the rear seating was less comfortable for taller passengers due to limited legroom and unforgiving plastic trim.

Cargo space in the Grand Cherokee was substantial, offering 37.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and a maximum of 70.8 cubic feet with seats folded down. The Grand Cherokee L variant provided more cargo room for those needing additional space.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue catered to families with excellent visibility and easy entry and exit due to its higher ground clearance. The Platinum trim provided luxurious amenities including triple-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and Nissan’s signature Zero Gravity seats. However, the rear seats disappointed with lower mounting and uncomfortable cushioning, which contrasted with the front row’s superior comfort.

For cargo, the Rogue offered 36.5 cubic feet behind the second row and 74.1 cubic feet with seats folded down. The Divide-N-Hide cargo management system allowed various configurational possibilities, adding further functionality.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a technological powerhouse. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system promised enhanced responsiveness, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. Depending on the trim, the touchscreen ranged from 8.4 inches to a 10.1-inch display. Features extended to five interior screens, a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, and advanced driver-assistance systems like a head-up display, night vision, and a camera-based rearview mirror.

Meanwhile, the 2023 Nissan Rogue’s tech seemed a bit dated compared to the Grand Cherokee. With an 8-inch or 9-inch touchscreen, the Rogue’s infotainment included wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, and NissanConnect services. The 12.3-inch digital instrumentation and head-up display performed well, though the voice recognition system proved finicky. The need for a better widescreen infotainment setup was evident, as the system struggled with accurate voice commands.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee came equipped with robust safety features including a package of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). The vehicle’s structure used high-strength steel, and new features such as Intersection Collision Assist and Active Driving Assist showcased its technological advancements. Level 2 semi-autonomous driving with future hands-free updates indicated a strong safety potential for the Grand Cherokee.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue provided comprehensive safety equipment with Safety Shield 360, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and more. ProPilot Assist delivered effective adaptive cruise control with lane-centering, earning positive marks in real-world testing. Despite a few performance inconsistencies, it received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, although it fell short in specific impact tests.