2023 Lexus RX vs 2022 Nissan Rogue

The 2022 model continued this new mature aesthetic. It shared several design elements with other current-generation Nissan vehicles, particularly the recently redesigned Pathfinder. Up front, the Rogue boasted a version of Nissan’s V-motion grille accented by multi-level LED headlights, topped with daytime running lights. Higher trims, like the SL and Platinum, included LED fog lamps as well. Although subtle, active grille shutters and underbody covers to enhance airflow were present, alongside an “air curtain” to channel air flow. The floating roof illusion, aided by dark supporting pillars, gave the Rogue a sleek finish, complemented by a slightly bulging liftgate.

Inside, the Rogue adopted a layered dash design with distinct horizontal layers, offering a sophisticated and detailed look, especially in contrasting colors in some trims. A notable addition was the electronic gear selector lever, which, due to its lack of mechanical linkage, freed up space in the center console. This newly available space beneath the console could hold items like a purse or even a bucket of fried chicken. The center console also featured large cupholder slots and a wireless charging pad, while a significant storage cubby resided below the center armrest. The 9-inch infotainment display floated prominently above the dash, positioned near the driver’s eye line, and the instrument panel housed either a 7-inch center display or a full 12.3-inch digital screen, depending on the trim level.

Nissan’s Zero Gravity bucket-style front seats guaranteed comfort, with a spacious second row suitable for two adults, or three in a pinch. The fit and finish were top-notch, with high-quality materials, particularly in the top-line Platinum model.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX was redesigned to be shorter in height, broader in width, and longer in wheelbase compared to its predecessor but maintained the same overall length. The reduction in rear overhang, softer design lines, and down-sloping black trim on the rear pillar contributed to a smaller appearance, accentuated by a floating roof effect that also imparted a stubby look.

The front featured the signature spindle-style grille integrated seamlessly into the design, adding a modern mesh texture that flowed into an elevated hood sweeping back into the windshield pillars. Upswept body sides mimicked the Lexus IS sedan, defining flared rear fenders, while the rear flaunted a light-blade taillight design, block lettering for the Lexus name, and a sporty-looking bumper with simulated air vents.

The familiarity of the RX styling ensured it remained recognizably a Lexus RX, but the redesign retained a fresh (and comparatively conservative) appeal. While sharing an aesthetic with the smaller Lexus NX, the RX ensured differentiation, providing a distinct reason for buyers to opt for the larger model.

Stepping inside revealed a thoroughly modern interior with minimal buttons and knobs. Central to the cabin were digital instrumentation and either a 9.8-inch or a 14-inch touchscreen display, complemented by natural voice-recognition technology and a head-up display option. While high-quality levels were maintained, NuLuxe artificial leather came standard, with options for genuine leather and simulated suede in some versions. Black plastic, real wood, and aluminum trims accentuated the luxurious feel.

Performance-wise, the 2022 Nissan Rogue included a new engine—the 1.5-liter VC-Turbo inline-three-cylinder, producing 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. This represented an 11 percent increase in horsepower and 24 percent more torque compared to the 2021 model’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This new engine incorporated a variable compression ratio, adjusting the size of the combustion chamber for optimal power or efficiency depending on driving conditions. The significant power boost brought the Rogue to life in various driving situations.

Fuel economy saw impressive improvements, with EPA estimates at 30 mpg city, 37 mpg highway, and 33 mpg combined using regular unleaded fuel. The Rogue’s CVT automatic transmission, although still prevalent, boasted substantially wider gear ratios, enhancing performance during take-offs and passing maneuvers. Combined with the tuned chassis and suspension, the Rogue delivered a smooth and controlled ride, showing minimal body roll and tight turning with its 35.4-foot diameter.

Conversely, the 2023 Lexus RX, tested during a ride-and-drive event, showcased two versions of the RX 350: one in Luxury trim with AWD and 21-inch wheels, and an F Sport Handling trim with AWD and an adaptive damping suspension. Both versions sported a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The turbo-four offered better performance at higher altitudes and slightly improved fuel economy compared to the outgoing 3.5-liter V6, though it lacked the same smoothness and refinement in sound. During the drive loop, the RX 350 Luxury exhibited occasional hints of torque steer under hard acceleration and excessive body motion over uneven pavement, albeit maintaining a generally smooth and comfortable ride. The RX 350 F Sport Handling, however, felt more secure and sure-footed, particularly in Sport driving mode. Its adaptive suspension minimized unwanted bouncing and body roll, providing a more dynamic driving experience.

Fuel economy estimates by Lexus suggested the RX 350 FWD should average 25 mpg combined, and the RX 350 AWD around 24 mpg. However, real-world testing returned figures of 22.5 mpg and 21.8 mpg, respectively.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue’s interior was a treasure trove of storage options, designed to accommodate both families and commuters. The front cabin offered multiple stashing spots, including bottle holders in the doors, console cupholders, a glove compartment, a center console bin, a tray beneath the console, and additional cubbies on the dash. The center stack featured USB-A, USB-C, and 12-volt outlets, located above the wireless charging pad.

Rear-seat passengers had access to door storage, seatback pockets, a center armrest with storage, and USB-A and USB-C charge-only ports. The second-row seat was a versatile 60/40 split reclining bench. Cargo space was another strong point for the Rogue, offering between 31.6 and 36.5 cubic feet with the second row up, and expanding to a generous 74.1 cubic feet with the second row folded flat.

The 2023 Lexus RX, on the other hand, provided a comfortably luxurious experience, though with some specifics to note. The RX 350 Luxury featured semi-aniline premium leather upholstery, ten-way power-adjustable seats, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated wood-and-leather steering wheel. The interior finishing, with Peppercorn color, suede door panel accents, and black open-pore wood trim, radiated modern sophistication.

The RX 350 F Sport Handling leaned towards a sporty cabin design with Black NuLuxe simulated leather seats and Dark Graphite trim. This version offered eight-way power-adjustable front seats, a thick-rimmed heated steering wheel, and heated and ventilated front seats. Despite the sport seat bolsters, comfort remained high.

Rear passengers enjoyed a supportive and high-mounted back seat, although taller individuals might find headroom slightly tight. Lexus increased the cargo space compared to previous versions but did not match the Rogue’s capacity. The RX offered a 29.6 cubic feet cargo space with the second row up and 46.2 cubic feet when folded down—not as generous for the segment.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue carried forward the technological advances from its 2021 makeover. High trim levels featured significant screen upgrades—a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, 9-inch center infotainment touchscreen, and 10.8-inch head-up display. Navigation-equipped models utilized Google Maps and Waze with voice commands. Standard features included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless Apple CarPlay on higher trims.

ProPilot Assist remained a standout, available in integration with the navigation system as ProPilot Assist with Navi-Link. This allowed the Rogue to anticipate and adjust to road conditions, such as reducing speed when approaching curves or exits. Nissan’s Intelligent Key continued to evolve, simplifying second-row passenger access with a rear door handle tap.

In comparison, the 2023 Lexus RX featured the new Lexus Interface infotainment system, with the choice of a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen display. This system incorporated wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, satellite radio, and various connected services with differing trial periods.

Drive Connect, complimentary for three years, included Destination Assist and Intelligent Assistant with natural voice recognition. While usually accurate, occasional directional errors were noted. This infotainment system allowed the setup of user profiles and the integration of streaming services like Apple Music and Amazon Music.

Although Lexus Interface replaced the previous infotainment technology effectively, its inability to display multiple data panels simultaneously was perceived as a step back. The premium 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system delivered excellent audio, though it required manual tone adjustment for optimal sound quality. Additional technological features included a color head-up display, digital rearview mirror, and digital key smartphone technology.

Safety was a foremost consideration in the 2022 Nissan Rogue, equipped with the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite across all trims. Standard features encompassed automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, high beam assist, and rear automated braking. Passive safety was ensured with ten supplemental airbags and extended crumple zones. Intelligent Driver Alertness technology and rear door alert were standard, while blind spot intervention and traffic sign recognition were available options.

ProPilot Assist enhanced the Safety Shield 360 to a Level 2 advanced driver-assist system, combining steering-assist and adaptive cruise control to manage acceleration, braking, and steering in heavy traffic and on open roads. It had capabilities such as complete stops and resumptions within a 30-second hold, particularly useful in traffic jams. The advanced ProPilot Assist with Navi-Link further integrated with navigation for predictive speed control.

The 2022 Rogue received a four-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) and was a Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for the 2021 model.

The 2023 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 (LSS+ 3.0), including advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) such as motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, intersection turn assistance with front cross-traffic alert, and a curve speed-reduction function with adaptive cruise control.

Three semi-autonomous driving technologies were introduced: Proactive Driving Assist, maintaining safe following distances and achieving nearly complete stops; Traffic Jam Assist, offering hands-free low-speed driving in traffic with driver monitoring; and Advanced Park Assist, handling parallel and perpendicular parking.

LSS+ 3.0 performed impressively but had its flaws. The HUD controls for adaptive cruise weren’t visible to drivers wearing polarized sunglasses, and its curve-speed reduction technology was criticized for delaying braking after entering curves. Additionally, driver distraction could anger the monitoring system.