2022 Nissan Rogue vs 2023 Subaru Forester

The 2022 Nissan Rogue continued the mature and sophisticated design introduced in the previous year. It featured a V-motion grille, multi-level LED headlights, and a sleek floating roof. The interior boasted a layered dash with contrasting colors and surfaces, an electronic gear selector lever, and a spacious center console. The Zero Gravity bucket-style front seats and roomy second row provided comfort and ample space for passengers. Fit and finish were exemplary, especially in the top-of-the-line Platinum model.

In contrast, the 2023 Subaru Forester maintained its functional and utilitarian design, prioritizing substance over style. The Touring trim featured 18-inch alloy wheels, satin chrome exterior trim, and robust roof rails. Inside, the Forester offered Saddle Brown leather, exposed stitching, and metallic accents. The interior was busy with traditional buttons and knobs, making it easy to use. However, the back seats were less comfortable, and the panoramic sunroof caused solar heating issues. Despite these drawbacks, the Forester's excellent outward visibility and well-sealed doors were notable features.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue received a significant performance boost with its new 1.5-liter VC-Turbo engine, producing 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. This engine offered improved fuel economy, with EPA estimates of 30 mpg city/37 mpg highway/33 mpg combined. The new CVT provided better acceleration and responsiveness, while the chassis and suspension delivered a smooth and controlled ride. The electric power-assisted steering and tight turning diameter further enhanced the driving experience.

The 2023 Subaru Forester, powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, offered adequate performance. The CVT with eight programmed ratios and SI-Drive system provided a Sport driving mode. The Forester's X-Mode off-road traction management system and hill descent control added to its capability. Despite the engine's loudness and merely adequate power, the Forester's excellent driving dynamics, light and accurate steering, and responsive brakes made it enjoyable to drive. However, it fell short of its EPA fuel economy rating, returning 25.9 mpg on the testing route.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue excelled in interior storage, offering numerous places to stash items, including bottle holders, cupholders, a glove compartment, and more. Rear-seat passengers had storage options and USB ports. The cargo area provided 31.6-36.5 cubic feet of space, expanding to 74.1 cubic feet with the second row folded flat.

The 2023 Subaru Forester prioritized function over form, with features like a panoramic glass sunroof, power-adjustable driver’s seat, and heated front seats available from the Premium trim. Higher trims offered StarTex artificial leather or genuine leather, dual-zone climate control, and heated rear seats. The Forester's excellent outward visibility and easy entry and exit were highlights. However, the back seats were less comfortable, and the panoramic sunroof caused solar heating issues. The cargo area offered 26.9-28.9 cubic feet of space, expanding to 69.1-74.2 cubic feet with the back seat folded down.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 9-inch center infotainment touchscreen, and a 10.8-inch head-up display on upper trims. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless Apple CarPlay available on higher trims. ProPilot Assist, integrated with the navigation system, provided advanced driver-assist features, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2023 Subaru Forester's technology included a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offered an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a Harman Kardon premium audio system. The user interface was simple and appealing, with separate climate controls and easy-to-use volume and tuning knobs. However, the voice-recognition system was nearly useless, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto essential for navigation.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue came with the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite, including automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and more. ProPilot Assist provided advanced driver-assist features, and the Rogue received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. The IIHS had not yet released crash test ratings for the 2022 model.

The 2023 Subaru Forester featured the next-generation EyeSight collection of driving assistance and collision avoidance technologies. It included Automatic Emergency Steering, Rear Automatic Braking, and DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System on higher trims. The Forester received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and five-star crash-test ratings from the NHTSA.