2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2023 Nissan Rogue

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a choice between the classic two-door and the more practical four-door model, catering to different preferences. Buyers could select from a variety of powertrains, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, or a plug-in hybrid. The standard six-speed manual transmission could be upgraded to an eight-speed automatic, and four-wheel drive was standard across all trims. The Wrangler came in four core trims: Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon, with numerous special editions available. The High Tide special edition, based on the four-door Sport S trim, featured unique elements like LED exterior lighting, a body-color hardtop, and the Xtreme Recon package, which included a 1.5-inch suspension lift and 35-inch tires. Despite its rugged appeal, the Wrangler's interior remained basic, with a focus on durability rather than luxury.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue, on the other hand, presented a more refined and modern design with its chiseled styling and SUV detailing. Available in S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims, the Rogue's price range was competitive, with the Platinum trim offering a host of upscale features. Our test vehicle, equipped with the Premium package, AWD, and various enhancements, reached a price point that overlapped with entry-level luxury vehicles. The Platinum trim boasted diamond-pattern leather seats and soft-touch materials, providing a comfortable and upscale interior experience. The Rogue's design and features made it an appealing choice for those seeking a stylish and practical compact SUV.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine with eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, producing 285 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 260 pound-feet of torque at 4,800 rpm. The eight-speed automatic transmission was a mandatory upgrade, and the Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system was optional. Despite an EPA rating of 21 mpg in combined driving, the Wrangler averaged 16.8 mpg over a week of testing. Known for its unique driving experience, the Wrangler offered an immersive and rugged ride, with traits like loud cabin noise, vague steering, and a bumpy ride. These characteristics, while not for everyone, were part of the Wrangler's charm and appeal to off-road enthusiasts.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue featured a new turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with a variable compression design, delivering 201 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 225 pound-feet of torque from 2,800 to 4,000 rpm. Paired with a CVT, the Rogue offered Eco, Auto, and Sport driving modes, with additional Off-Road and Snow modes for AWD versions. The VC-Turbo powertrain provided responsive performance in urban settings, though it lacked highway passing power. The Rogue's EPA rating was 31 mpg in combined driving, but it averaged 28.9 mpg during testing. The Rogue's ride quality was enhanced by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, though it exhibited some body motion on uneven roads. Overall, the Rogue offered a balanced and composed driving experience.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's raised suspension made entry and exit challenging, especially for shorter individuals. The interior featured durable cloth upholstery and a mix of plastic and rubber materials, with some padded areas for comfort. Visibility varied, with some obstructions from the spare tire and roof design. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry challenges but enjoyed decent accommodations once inside. Cargo space was accessible via a swing-out tailgate, offering 31.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 72.4 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue provided a more user-friendly experience with its higher ground clearance and spacious interior. The Platinum trim included premium features like a dual-panel sunroof, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Rogue's Zero Gravity seats offered comfort, though rear-seat comfort was less impressive. Storage was ample, with a hands-free power liftgate revealing up to 36.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 74.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The Rogue's interior design and features made it a practical choice for families.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide, based on the Sport S trim, featured a basic infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the larger Uconnect 8.4 system offered additional features, the standard setup met basic needs. The Wrangler included options like remote engine starting, satellite radio, and heated seats, enhancing its tech offerings.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue, while using an older infotainment system, offered a 9-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, satellite radio, wireless Apple CarPlay, and wired Android Auto. The test vehicle included a Bose premium audio system, a wireless charging pad, and a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display. However, the Alexa Built-in system struggled with voice recognition, limiting its usefulness. Despite this, the Rogue's infotainment system provided a comprehensive suite of features.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, offering features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Wrangler's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS. Safety features were optional, and the Wrangler required careful driving.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue came equipped with Safety Shield 360, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added ProPilot Assist with Navi-link, enhancing highway driving with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. The Rogue earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, making it a safer choice.