2022 Lexus NX vs 2023 Nissan Rogue

When the newly redesigned 2022 Lexus NX hit the market in December 2021, it immediately captivated with its elevated aesthetics. The NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+ models provided a plethora of options for consumers. Depending on the model, buyers could select from base, Premium, F Sport, and Luxury trims, with prices starting at $37,950 and reaching up to $49,000—excluding a $1,075 destination charge. While the NX 250 and NX 350 were not electrified, the NX 350h and NX 450h+ offered hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants, respectively. The NX 350 took the spotlight in F Sport and Luxury trims. Lexus’s commitment to design was palpable. The NX stood out, particularly thanks to its definitive spindle grille, though the improved styling bore similarities to the streamlined Lexus IS sports sedan. Physically, the 2022 NX surpassed its predecessor in length, width, and height, promising added passenger and cargo space. While most models featured NuLuxe simulated leather, the Luxury trims boasted real leather and open pore wood trim. This model introduced the NX’s first panoramic sunroof. The NX 350 F Sport distinguished itself with a bespoke mesh-pattern grille, body-color fender trim, gloss black 20-inch wheels, and black mirrors. Inside, sport-bolstered seats, a black headliner, and exclusive F Sport detailing underscored the sporty facade. Lexus took a minimalist approach to the interior, stripping away the clutter of the previous model’s dashboard. However, this redesign came with its own set of challenges, such as difficulty using the 14-inch touchscreen for controlling climate functions. Despite these initial usability issues, the NX retained physical controls for vital stereo and temperature adjustments. Its electronic shifter was another standout, simple to adapt to. High-quality materials were predominant, though the turn signal's inexpensive feel was a minor letdown. Nissan played it safe with the design of the 2023 Rogue, aligning with the adage that people gravitate towards attractive vehicles. The Rogue exuded robustness and sophistication, balancing chiseled styling and just the right SUV cues. The 2023 Rogue lineup included S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims, ranging from $27,360 to $37,140, before a $1,295 destination charge. Premium packages were available for the SV, SL, and Platinum trims, while the SV offered a unique Midnight Edition package. The Platinum trim, tested with AWD, two-tone paint, and additional luxury features, elevated the Rogue’s MSRP to $43,100, encroaching on luxury territory. Inside, the Platinum model impressed with luxurious features like diamond-pattern leather seats and a well-crafted control interface. Though the interior was plush, some design elements like the control location for ambient lighting lacked intuitive placement. Conversely, the expansive cargo area and nearly 90-degree rear door openings highlighted the Rogue's functional design. Practicality combined with luxury made the Rogue a compelling contender.

Electrification was a highlight for the 2022 Lexus NX, with two electrified models: the NX 350h hybrid and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid. The NX 350h delivered 239 horsepower and achieved an EPA-estimated 39 mpg in combined driving. The NX 450h+ offered a robust 302 horsepower with a 36-mile pure electric range before switching to hybrid mode. Lexus’s focus on driving performance also shone through the new NX, built on a platform with a lower center of gravity and reduced curb weight. The NX 350 F Sport, powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, generated 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. This was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission powering all four wheels. The F Sport featured additional driving modes and an adaptive variable sports suspension for enhanced performance. It handled winding roads with precision, though it fell short in sound refinement when compared to German competitors. Fuel efficiency varied between trims, with the F Sport averaging 22.2 mpg and the Luxury trim achieving 25.5 mpg. Lexus estimated a combined 25 mpg for the NX 350. However, the NX's minimal ground clearance and approach angles limited its off-road capabilities. For 2022, Nissan revamped the Rogue’s powertrain with a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine featuring variable compression technology. This new VC-Turbo engine produced 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). AWD was optional, adding Off-Road and Snow driving modes to the standard Eco, Auto, and Sport modes. The VC-Turbo engine improved urban and suburban driving responsiveness, though it lacked passing power on highways. The engine's unique character, paired with potential vibrations, might not appeal to everyone. Fuel economy expectations were set at 31 mpg in combined driving, but the test vehicle averaged 28.9 mpg. The Rogue featured Intelligent Trace Control for enhanced cornering and Active Ride Control for a smooth drive. Despite some lateral motion on undulating roads, the Rogue demonstrated balanced ride compliance and body control. However, the steering felt lifeless, reducing driver engagement.

The 2022 Lexus NX promised increased interior room, but the redesigned dashboard created a cozy atmosphere. The front seats were particularly comfortable, with available heating and ventilation options, especially in the F Sport with its extra bolstering. Rear-seat passengers benefited from ample space, rear air conditioning vents, and heated seats. The panoramic sunroof extended over the back seat, enhancing the feeling of space. In terms of cargo, Lexus stated a 14% increase in cargo space, equating to 22.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 46.9 cubic feet with seats folded down. The 2023 Nissan Rogue embraced its role as a family-friendly SUV, offering excellent accessibility and visibility from the driver's seat. The Platinum trim's luxurious interior featured a triple-zone climate control system and premium leather seats. Although the front seats were exceedingly comfortable, the rear seats fell short, lacking leg support and comfort. The Rogue excelled in cargo capacity, providing 36.5 cubic feet behind the back seats, expandable to 74.1 cubic feet with seats folded. The Divide-N-Hide feature added flexibility, and ample storage throughout the cabin ensured practicality.

Technology was a cornerstone of the 2022 Lexus NX. The Lexus Interface infotainment system represented a significant leap forward, with options for a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen display. Standard equipment included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Voice Assistant technology. The Mark Levinson premium sound system enhanced the audio experience, though the dependency on cloud services posed limitations in remote areas. Additionally, the NX featured an array of connected services, including Intelligent Assistant and Drive Connect. The latter offered cloud-based navigation and music streaming capabilities. Digital key functionality and a comprehensive head-up display augmented the tech suite. Meanwhile, the 2023 Nissan Rogue incorporated Nissan’s older infotainment system with an 8-inch or 9-inch touchscreen, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, and NissanConnect services. A new addition was Alexa Built-in, though it struggled with accurate voice recognition during testing. The Rogue included a 12.3-inch digital instrument display and a head-up display, both of which functioned well. However, the outdated infotainment system marred the otherwise impressive tech offerings.

The 2022 Lexus NX came loaded with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite, offering advanced driver assistance features such as Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle and Pedestrian Detection, and Curve Speed Management. The Emergency Driving Stop System highlighted the SUV’s commitment to safety. High trims added rear pedestrian detection, adaptive lighting, and a Vision Package with panoramic view monitoring. The 2023 Nissan Rogue’s Safety Shield 360 suite included collision avoidance systems, automatic emergency braking, rear automatic braking, and lane-departure warning. Higher trims featured ProPilot Assist with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering. The Rogue earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA, reflecting its strong safety performance.