2022 Volkswagen Taos vs 2023 Nissan Rogue

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos was positioned as a compact SUV with a spacious interior, fitting comfortably within Volkswagen's lineup between the subcompact and compact segments. It competed with models like the Kia Seltos, Jeep Compass, and Subaru Crosstrek. The Taos was available in Trendline, Comfortline, and Highline trims, with a single engine option and a choice between front-wheel drive and 4Motion all-wheel drive on the base model. Its design was consistent with Volkswagen's aesthetic, featuring roof rails, dark grey plastic cladding, and skid plates. However, the interior was criticized for its hard plastic materials, though it offered soft surfaces where necessary and a stylish two-tone leather option in the Highline trim.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue maintained a conservative design approach, emphasizing proper proportions and rugged styling. It was available in S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims, with prices ranging from $30,898 to $43,748. The Platinum trim, which was tested, included features like all-wheel drive, two-tone paint, and a host of interior and exterior enhancements. The Rogue's interior was noted for its diamond-pattern leather seats and soft-touch materials, providing a comfortable and upscale feel. However, the engine's character and some interior design choices, like the key fob, were points of contention.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos was powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided adequate power, but the turbocharger's delayed response and the dual-clutch transmission's erratic shifting could be frustrating. The Taos offered a smooth ride with responsive steering and effective brakes, but its ground clearance was limited compared to competitors like the Jeep Compass and Subaru Crosstrek. Fuel efficiency was rated at 8.5 L/100 km, with real-world testing showing 8.7 L/100 km.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue featured a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine with 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. The engine's variable compression design aimed to balance performance and fuel economy, but it lacked passing power on the highway. The CVT was generally smooth, though its simulated gear changes could be dramatic. The Rogue's ride quality was enhanced by brake-induced cornering technology and a multi-link rear suspension. Fuel economy was expected to be 7.7 L/100 km, but testing showed 8.1 L/100 km. The Rogue's handling was secure, though the steering felt lifeless.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos boasted a spacious interior, with ample room for front and rear passengers. The Highline trim offered power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated front seats, along with a heated steering wheel. Cargo space varied depending on the drive system, with up to 1,866 litres available in the front-wheel-drive model. The Taos also featured a centre pass-through for skis or other long items.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue was designed as a family-friendly SUV, with room for five passengers and a focus on comfort. The Platinum trim included premium leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. However, the rear seat comfort was lacking, with low-mounted cushions and quilted pleats that were uncomfortable. Cargo space was generous, with up to 2,064 litres available with the rear seats folded. The Rogue also offered a hands-free power liftgate and Nissan's Divide-N-Hide cargo system.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos came with a Digital Cockpit instrument cluster and a 6.5-inch or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, depending on the trim. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a BeatsAudio premium sound system in the Highline trim. However, the infotainment system's user experience was criticized for its complexity and slow response.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue featured an older infotainment system with an 8-inch or 9-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim. The system included Bluetooth, satellite radio, wireless Apple CarPlay, and a Bose premium audio system. Voice recognition technology was limited, and the system struggled with basic navigation requests. The Rogue also offered a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a head-up display.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos offered a range of safety features, but many were only available on higher trims or as part of an extra-cost package. These included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The Taos also featured Travel Assist and Emergency Assist, which provided advanced driving assistance and safety features.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue came standard with Safety Shield 360, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims offered ProPilot Assist with Navi-link, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centring assistance. The Rogue earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received lower scores in some specific crash tests.