2021 Toyota 4Runner vs 2022 Nissan Rogue

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner, despite its age, retained a rugged charm that appealed to those seeking a durable and utilitarian vehicle. Its design, largely unchanged over the years, featured a two-box body with flared fenders and trapezoidal wheel arches, offering balanced proportions and timeless styling. While not conventionally attractive, the 4Runner's appearance was functional, akin to a reliable tool that didn't require frequent updates. The interior, though dominated by hard plastics, was easy to clean and in line with the SUV's mission. The dashboard was old-school, with large knobs and buttons, emphasizing simplicity and durability.

In contrast, the 2022 Nissan Rogue presented a more modern and sophisticated look, following its recent redesign. The exterior featured Nissan's V-motion grille, multi-level LED headlights, and a sleek floating roof design. Inside, the Rogue boasted a layered dash with contrasting colours and surfaces, creating a refined and detailed appearance. The centre console was a highlight, with an electronic gear selector lever and ample storage space. The Rogue's interior was both attractive and comfortable, with Nissan's Zero Gravity bucket-style front seats and a roomy second row, offering good legroom and space for passengers.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with a 4.0-litre V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. It excelled off-road, thanks to features like A-Trac, a locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select, and Crawl Control. However, on paved roads, the 4Runner felt slow and clunky, with heavy steering and brakes. Its body-on-frame construction contributed to its truck-like driving characteristics, which some found charming but others might find cumbersome for daily use. Fuel consumption was high, averaging 14.0 L/100 km, with a range of about 620 kilometres on a full tank.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue, on the other hand, benefited from a new 1.5-litre VC-Turbo engine, delivering 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. This engine offered improved performance and fuel efficiency, with estimates of 7.8 L/100 km city and 6.5 highway. The Rogue's CVT transmission provided smooth acceleration and responsive passing power. The chassis and suspension delivered a controlled ride with minimal body roll, and the electric power-assisted steering offered good feel and a tight turning diameter.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner offered a spacious interior with comfortable seating and ample legroom. The rear seats provided good visibility and included air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. Cargo space was generous, with up to 1,337 litres behind the back seat and 2,540 litres with the rear seat folded down. The 4Runner's high ground clearance could pose a challenge for shorter passengers, but it contributed to its off-road capability.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue excelled in interior storage and practicality, with numerous storage options throughout the cabin. The second-row seat was a 60/40 split reclining bench, providing flexibility for passengers and cargo. The Rogue offered up to 1,033 litres of cargo space, expanding to 2,098 litres with the second row folded flat. The interior was well-designed, with thoughtful details and ample charging options for devices.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner's technology was basic, with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system was user-friendly, with physical buttons and knobs for easy operation. However, the entry-level Trail grade lacked advanced features, focusing on simplicity and functionality.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue, following its 2021 makeover, featured advanced technology, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 9-inch centre infotainment touchscreen, and a 10.8-inch head-up display. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with wireless Apple CarPlay available on upper trims. ProPilot Assist, a hands-on driver-assist technology, was available, offering advanced navigation integration and speed control.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner came with Toyota Safety Sense P, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. However, it lacked blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic warning. The 4Runner received mixed safety ratings, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and a "Marginal" rating for driver protection in a small overlap frontal-impact collision from the IIHS.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue featured the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite, including automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, high beam assist, and rear automatic braking. ProPilot Assist enhanced these features, offering Level 2 advanced driver-assist capabilities. The Rogue received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.