2022 Nissan Rogue vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered Canadians a range of six models, with prices starting from $47,799 to $66,759, excluding a $2,095 destination charge. The lineup expanded with the rugged Timberline trim in the previous year, and for 2022, the Explorer ST-Line was introduced, adding a sporty flair to the XLT version. The U.S.-spec Explorer King Ranch, which was not available in Canada, served as the test vehicle, with the closest Canadian equivalent being the Explorer Platinum. The Explorer's design, based on a rear-drive platform, featured a long and tall hood, short front overhang, rakish roofline, and tapering greenhouse, creating a taut, athletic appearance. Blacked-out roof pillars contributed to the "floating roof" effect, a popular design element from the previous generation. Inside, higher-trim Explorers displayed a mix of quality and questionable materials, mostly justifying their price but occasionally revealing hints of the base trim.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue, a staple in Nissan's lineup since 2007, continued its evolution with a mature design carried over from the previous year's transformation. The Rogue shared several exterior design elements with other current-generation Nissan vehicles, such as the V-motion grille and multi-level LED headlights. The SL and Platinum trims featured LED fog lamps, while active grille shutters and underbody covers improved airflow. The floating roof illusion, aided by dark supporting pillars, and a slightly bulging liftgate added to the sleek look. Inside, the Rogue's cabin followed a layered dash design trend, with contrasting colours and surfaces in some trims. The centre console, featuring an electronic gear selector, offered ample storage space, including a wireless charging pad and a 9-inch infotainment display. The Rogue's Zero Gravity front seats and roomy second row provided comfort, while fit and finish, especially in the Platinum model, were exemplary.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The XLT, ST-Line, and Timberline trims came with a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD in Canada. This engine allowed for a maximum towing capacity of 2,400 kg and consumed between 10.3 and 11.8 L/100 km in combined driving. The Explorer Limited offered a hybrid drivetrain based on a 3.3-litre V6 engine, generating a combined 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kg and fuel consumption as low as 9.6 L/100 km. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, standard in the ST and Platinum trims, produced 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,540 kg and fuel consumption of 11.8 L/100 km. The Explorer's ride felt robust, handling off-road terrain with ease, and offered an engaging driving experience, especially in the sport-tuned ST version.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue's performance was enhanced by a new 1.5-litre VC-Turbo engine, producing 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, a significant improvement over the previous model. The engine's variable compression technology allowed for efficient power delivery, with fuel consumption estimates of 7.8 L/100 km city, 6.5 highway, and 7.2 combined. The Rogue's new CVT transmission offered wider gear ratios, improving acceleration and responsiveness. The chassis and suspension provided a smooth, controlled ride with minimal body roll, and the electric power-assisted steering offered good feel and a tight turning diameter.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided ample comfort for families of four, with the option to carry five with a second-row bench seat. However, the third-row seat was best suited for children due to limited space. Fully equipped models featured amenities like triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain’s chairs. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with available massaging, while the second-row seats were nearly as accommodating. Storage space was limited, with missed opportunities for additional compartments. The Explorer offered 528 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,264 litres with the third row folded and 2,132 litres with both rear rows down.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue excelled in interior storage, with numerous compartments for stashing items. The front cabin featured bottle holders, cupholders, a glove compartment, a centre console bin, and more. Rear-seat passengers had storage options in the doors and seatbacks, along with USB ports for device charging. The Rogue's cargo area offered 1,033 litres of space, expanding to 2,098 litres with the second row folded.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The smaller screen was well integrated, while the larger screen appeared as an afterthought. The system included FordPass Connect, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. Higher trims offered wireless charging, a surround-view camera, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. However, the Sync 3 system's voice recognition was less advanced than the newer Sync 4 technology, requiring manual input for some functions. Additional tech included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and Active Park Assist 2.0.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue's technology upgrade included a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a 10.8-inch head-up display. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with wireless Apple CarPlay on upper trims. ProPilot Assist, available with Navi-Link, integrated navigation for predictive speed control. Nissan’s Intelligent Key allowed for convenient keyless entry, enhancing family usability.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with standard Ford Co-Pilot360 features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer also featured post-collision braking and MyKey programmable functions, though the steering wheel sensitivity could be improved.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue included the Safety Shield 360 suite, with features like automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning. ProPilot Assist offered Level 2 driver-assist capabilities, with enhanced features available with Navi-Link. The Rogue received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.