2023 Nissan Rogue vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition was a striking vehicle, especially in its Black Onyx color. This model eradicated almost all chrome from the exterior, transforming the SUV into a sleek, dark presence on the road. However, it quickly accumulated dust, making it look old and shabby. Despite its modern touches like the signature Lexus spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights, the GX's design felt dated, reminiscent of its first-generation model from 2002. Inside, the cabin quality was impeccable, with smooth, refined materials and a quiet atmosphere, save for the faint roar of the V8 engine.

In contrast, the 2023 Nissan Rogue featured a more contemporary design with proper proportions and chiseled styling. The Platinum trim test vehicle came loaded with upscale features, including diamond-pattern leather seats and a host of modern conveniences. Despite its high price, the Rogue's interior offered a blend of comfort and practicality, making it a strong contender in the compact SUV segment. However, some design choices, like the low-contrast key fob, were less user-friendly.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460, with its 4.6-liter V8 engine, produced 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm. This powertrain, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system, allowed the GX to tow up to 6,500 pounds. Despite its hefty curb weight of 5,126 pounds, the GX managed a 0-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds. However, its fuel economy was a mere 16 mpg in combined driving, which was expected given its V8 engine and always-on 4WD system. The GX's Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS) improved ride quality and off-road capability, but the slow, heavy steering and touchy brake pedal detracted from the overall driving experience.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue, on the other hand, featured a new turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with variable compression technology. 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), the Rogue offered a responsive driving experience in urban settings, though it lacked passing power on the highway. The EPA estimated its fuel economy at 31 mpg in combined driving, but our test vehicle averaged 28.9 mpg. The Rogue's ride quality was generally good, with Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control enhancing cornering and comfort, though the steering felt lifeless.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat and clear outward visibility. Its tall, narrow, and short design made it maneuverable in various settings, though the slow steering required extra effort. The interior featured comfortable seats and well-placed padding, but some switchgear was outdated. The Black Line Special Edition included NuLuxe upholstery, black ash wood trim, and triple-zone automatic climate control. However, the rear seat access was tricky, and the third-row seat was cramped and eliminated cargo space. The side-swinging tailgate further complicated loading, and the cargo capacity was limited to 64.7 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue excelled as a family vehicle, offering ample space for four adults and the ability to carry a fifth person when needed. The Platinum trim included premium features like a dual-panel panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Zero Gravity seats provided comfort, though the rear seat was less supportive. The Rogue's rear doors opened to a nearly 90-degree angle, facilitating easy access. The cargo area offered up to 36.5 cubic feet of space, expandable to 74.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The Divide-N-Hide feature allowed for versatile cargo configurations.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 featured a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a significant improvement over the previous model. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation. However, the stereo controls were awkwardly placed below the off-roading controls, making them harder to use. The system offered a dual-screen view and excellent voice recognition technology. Additional tech features included Intuitive Parking Assist, surround-view cameras, and terrain-view cameras.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included an 8-inch or available 9-inch touchscreen display with Bluetooth, satellite radio, wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, and NissanConnect services. The test vehicle had a 9-inch screen, a wireless charging pad, and a Bose premium audio system. However, the voice recognition technology struggled with accuracy. The Rogue also featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a head-up display, both of which worked well.

The 2022 Lexus GX lacked modern crash-test ratings but included Lexus Safety System+ with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services. However, it lacked more advanced safety technologies found in competitors.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including 10 airbags, Safety Shield 360, and NissanConnect services with automatic collision notification and emergency assistance. Higher trims offered ProPilot Assist with Navi-link, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance. The Rogue earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received lower scores in updated crash tests.