2021 Nissan Rogue vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Nissan Rogue underwent a complete redesign, giving it a more muscular and imposing presence. Its squared-off nose featured a deeper interpretation of Nissan’s V-Motion grille design, 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 SUV's boxier proportions. The exterior colour palette was simplified to a few basic colours, with additional two-tone options available on the Platinum grade. Inside, seating surfaces varied from cloth to semi-aniline quilted Nappa leather, depending on the trim level, with the Platinum model offering the most luxurious interior.

The 2022 Volvo XC90, on the other hand, showcased a sleek and modern design, moving away from the boxy shapes of its predecessors. Its body appeared poised to launch forward, with a long, sleek roofline and pronounced wheel arches that emphasized athleticism. The XC90's superior fit and finish, along with the "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights, highlighted its Swedish heritage. Inside, the XC90 exuded "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," with natural wood and metal trim, a sliding wood tambour cover on the centre console, and a clear crystal gear selector handle. Volvo's commitment to going leather-free by 2030 was evident, though Nappa leather was still available for those who preferred it.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured a new 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, with improvements in both performance and fuel efficiency over the previous generation. The engine's power was well-matched to the Rogue's curb weight, ranging from 1,536 kilograms for the front-wheel-drive S grade to 1,653 kilograms for the all-wheel-drive Platinum model. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) was less droning than expected, though no alternate powertrain was offered. Fuel efficiency was respectable, with the front-wheel-drive configuration achieving 8.9 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 7.0 on the highway, while the all-wheel-drive version slightly increased these figures.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrain options. The T5 models featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre gasoline four-cylinder engine, producing 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The T6 models added a supercharger, increasing output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The Recharge models combined a supercharged/turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive was standard across the lineup, with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Fuel efficiency varied, with the T5 models achieving 11.5 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 8.4 on the highway, while the Recharge models offered an 8.8 L/100 km combined rating in hybrid mode and a 29-kilometre EV range.

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 second-row doors opened to 85 degrees, improving access, and headroom was increased. Standard features included heated front seats, a steering wheel, and exterior mirrors, with upgrades available in higher trims. The Platinum grade offered a redesigned Divide and Hide cargo system, providing 1,028 litres of cargo space with the second row upright and 2,064 litres with them folded.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was available in six- and seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row. Cargo capacity varied, with up to 357 litres behind the third row and 1,855 litres with the second and third rows folded. The XC90 could tow up to 2,250 kilograms, depending on the configuration. Interior space was maximized with ample storage options, and the cabin was comfortable and airy, enhanced by a standard panoramic moonroof. The climate control system performed well, even in extreme weather conditions, and the XC90 was equipped with features like heated seats and a heated steering wheel.

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 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster had readability issues due to low contrast.

The 2022 Volvo XC90's Sensus infotainment system offered tablet-like functionality with a 9-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen. While intuitive, the system was occasionally slow to respond. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel provided crisp graphics, and the Advanced package included a head-up display and a 360-degree camera system. The XC90 also featured a Harman-Kardon audio system and multiple USB ports for convenience.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue came standard with the Safety Shield 360 suite, including features like forward emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane departure warning. The SV model introduced ProPILOT Assist, enhancing highway driving assistance. The Rogue received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety with features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping aid, and adaptive cruise control. The Pilot Assist system provided semi-autonomous driving assistance on highways. The XC90 earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.