2022 Subaru Ascent vs 2022 Nissan Rogue

The 2022 Subaru Ascent underwent a significant stylistic shift with the introduction of the Onyx Edition. This new trim level introduced blacked-out exterior trim and badges, black 20-inch aluminum wheels, a unique grille design, and special interior touches. Priced at $37,995 with an additional $1,125 destination charge, the Ascent Onyx Edition aimed to offer a sporty yet rugged appearance in Subaru's traditional lineup. The Onyx Edition's interior featured water-repellant StarTex synthetic leather seats available exclusively in a gray two-tone scheme with light gray stitching, a departure from the usual black interior often paired with blacked-out exteriors from other automakers.

Buyers could opt for the Base, Premium, Onyx Edition, Limited, or Touring trim levels, with pricing ranging from $32,295 to $45,445 at the start of the model year. Subaru positioned the Ascent as a versatile and adventurous family vehicle.

In contrast, the 2022 Nissan Rogue continued its 2021 redesign's momentum by offering a mature, sophisticated exterior. Sharing design cues with the reworked Pathfinder, the Rogue featured Nissan’s V-motion grille, multi-level LED headlights, daytime running lights, and, on higher trims, LED fog lamps. The floating roof illusion, bolstered by dark supporting pillars, added a sleek touch, while underbody covers and active grille shutters contributed to better aerodynamics.

Inside, the Rogue incorporated a modern layered dashboard design with contrasting colors and surfaces on different trims. The electronic gear selector lever was a notable highlight, freeing up considerable space in the center console. The storage-friendly design included a large storage cubby, a wireless charging pad, and ample cupholders. Consumers also appreciated the Nissan’s Zero Gravity bucket-style front seats, recognized for their comfort, and a roomy second row suitable for two adults, or three in a pinch.

Subaru equipped the 2022 Ascent with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder boxer engine, delivering 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine was mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and came standard with all-wheel drive (AWD). The CVT featured eight programmed ratios and manual shift controls using steering wheel paddles, making it versatile for various driving conditions. Subaru's renowned X-Mode off-road traction control system was standard, offering enhanced traction and control on varying terrains. With a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, the Ascent offered solid performance. However, during testing, it averaged 20.5 mpg, below the EPA-estimated 22 mpg for models with 20-inch wheels.

Nissan's 2022 Rogue introduced a new 1.5-liter VC-Turbo engine producing 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. This marked an improvement of 11 percent in horsepower and 24 percent in torque over the previous year's model. The VC-Turbo, short for Variable Compression, adjusted the compression ratio mechanically for better performance and fuel efficiency, contributing to an EPA-estimated 30 mpg city, 37 mpg highway, and 33 mpg combined. The Rogue’s CVT also underwent refinements for smoother and more responsive driving. The Rogue’s chassis and suspension provided a controlled ride with minimal body roll, while the electric power-assisted steering offered good feedback and a tight turning diameter.

The Subaru Ascent could accommodate up to eight passengers with its second-row bench seat configuration. While the third-row seats were best suited for children, adults found comfort in the first two rows thanks to the water-resistant StarTex upholstery. The Ascent offered ample storage, including a dashboard-spanning shelf and large door panel cupholders. Cargo capacity varied, with 17.8 cubic feet behind the third row, 47.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 86.5 cubic feet with both rows down. Models with the panoramic sunroof trimmed a bit of this capacity.

The Nissan Rogue offered versatile storage solutions in both the front and rear cabins. The front cabin featured numerous storage compartments, including bottle holders, cupholders, a glove compartment, center console bin, and a tray beneath the center console. Rear passengers benefited from seatback and door storage, along with USB ports for device charging. The cargo area impressively offered 31.6 to 36.5 cubic feet, expanding to 74.1 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded flat, making it highly practical for everyday use or spontaneous shopping sprees.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent came with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system in base trim, featuring Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, satellite radio, and even a CD player. The Premium and higher trims added an 8-inch display with Starlink connected services, including a WiFi hotspot and remote engine start. While the system was user-friendly, its voice recognition technology lagged behind competitors and required specific commands. The Onyx Edition used standard stereo speakers that lacked premium sound quality compared to the optional Harman Kardon system available on other trims.

Nissan's 2022 Rogue carried forward the technology updates from its 2021 redesign with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, 9-inch center infotainment touchscreen, and a 10.8-inch head-up display on upper trims. Integrated navigation used Google Maps and Waze through voice commands, and higher trims offered wireless Apple CarPlay alongside standard Android Auto. ProPilot Assist with Navi-Link integrated navigation knowledge for a more intuitive driving experience, adjusting speed proactively based on upcoming road conditions.

The Subaru Ascent excelled in safety, earning a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star NHTSA rating in all but the rollover resistance evaluation, where it received four stars. Standard EyeSight driver-assistance technologies included advanced adaptive cruise control with lane-centering technology, though direct sunlight occasionally impaired camera performance. Other standard features included steering-responsive LED headlights, automatic high-beam assist, and, on Premium trims and above, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

Nissan's 2022 Rogue came with the Safety Shield 360 suite standard across all trims, comprising automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, high beam assist, and rear automatic braking. ProPilot Assist, available optionally, combined adaptive cruise control with steering assist for smoother driving assistance. The 2022 Rogue earned a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. The 2021 model, which the 2022 follows closely, received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.