2021 Nissan Rogue vs 2022 Cadillac XT6

The 2021 Nissan Rogue presented a bold redesign that gave this compact SUV a robust and commanding appearance. Its squared-off nose featured a deeper interpretation of Nissan’s V-Motion grille, flanked by narrow, angled LED headlamps and separate LED daytime running lights. Functional forward air vents and active grille shutters contributed to a lower coefficient of drag, despite the Rogue's boxier proportions. The exterior colour options were streamlined, with a few two-tone configurations available on the Platinum grade, adding a touch of sophistication. Inside, the Rogue offered a range of seating materials, from cloth to semi-aniline quilted Nappa leather on the Platinum model, enhancing the interior's appeal.

In contrast, the 2022 Cadillac XT6 exuded a more conservative elegance, with polished 20-inch alloy wheels and a Jet Black semi-aniline leather interior. Its design was attractive yet understated, with towering front running lights and simple vertical taillights. The XT6's proportions conveyed a tailored image, aligning with Cadillac's lineup. The interior, while rich in materials, lacked the luxury feel expected at its price point. Despite its premium leather and sound-deadening features, the XT6's controls and displays were reminiscent of less expensive GM models, and its analog gauges seemed outdated compared to competitors.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue was powered by a new 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm. This engine improved performance and fuel efficiency over its predecessor, with a curb weight ranging from 1,536 kg to 1,653 kg depending on the model. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) was less droning than expected, and the Rogue's handling was enhanced by a 27% improvement in torsional rigidity and a revamped multi-link rear suspension. Fuel efficiency was respectable, with figures of 8.9 L/100 km in the city and 7.0 L/100 km on the highway for the front-wheel-drive model.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder with 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.6-litre V6 producing 310 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. The V6, available in Premium Luxury and Sport trims, provided sufficient power but lacked the turbocharged excitement of some competitors. The XT6 featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and offered both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive modes. Its adaptive-damping performance suspension and 20-inch wheels contributed to a smooth ride, though the driving experience leaned more towards serenity than excitement. Fuel economy for the V6 was rated at 11.5 L/100 km combined, with our test vehicle achieving 12.0 L/100 km.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue boasted several functional updates, including a quieter cabin and a new shift-by-wire system that added storage space under the centre stack. The rear doors opened to 85 degrees, improving access, and the second-row headroom was increased. Standard features included heated front seats, a steering wheel, and exterior mirrors. The SV trim added a 360-degree Around View Monitor and a panoramic sunroof, while the Platinum grade featured a redesigned Divide and Hide cargo system, offering up to 2,064 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6, while expected to be spacious, felt narrower inside. The front seats were comfortable and offered heating and ventilation, but lacked the range of adjustment and massage functions found in some rivals. The second-row captain’s chairs provided decent legroom, but the third-row seat was cramped for adults. Cargo space was limited to 357 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,200 litres with the seats folded. Storage compartments were small and difficult to access, and the overall interior space was less than that of a Buick Enclave.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The SV grade added an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot and additional USB ports, while the Platinum grade offered a 9-inch screen, wireless phone charging, and a Bose 10-speaker audio system. However, the digital instrument cluster's graphics were difficult to read due to low contrast.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 offered advanced features like a digital rearview mirror, Night Vision, and Super Cruise, but lacked digital gauges. Its 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with intuitive voice recognition technology. However, usability issues arose from touch-sensing buttons and poorly marked controls. The available Bose Performance Series audio system provided excellent sound quality, but the head-up display was less impressive than those in other GM vehicles.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue came standard with the Safety Shield 360 suite, including forward emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane departure warning. The SV model introduced ProPILOT Assist, a hands-on highway driving assist feature. The Rogue received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a four-star safety rating from the NHTSA, with improvements made to later models.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 was equipped with a comprehensive list of safety features, including forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The standout feature was Super Cruise, a hands-free highway driving-assist system. However, it had limitations in certain situations. The XT6 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, with a four-star rollover resistance rating.