2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2023 Nissan Rogue

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling elements from the Tacoma pickup, featuring a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia that gave it a rugged look. However, the side profile introduced a swooping character line that added unnecessary visual weight, making it appear somewhat bloated. The rear design echoed the front grille, but the overall aesthetic felt disjointed compared to more cohesive competitors like the Kia Telluride. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid's asymmetrical dash and metallic styling element added interest, while the high-mounted infotainment screen reduced driver distraction. The Bronze Edition's light grey fabric seats, however, were prone to dirt and felt less durable, with Softex synthetic leather that lacked the quality of genuine leather found in higher trims.

In contrast, the 2023 Nissan Rogue presented a more cohesive design with chiseled styling and SUV detailing that conveyed a rugged purpose. Available in S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims, the Rogue offered a range of features, including a Midnight Edition package for the SV trim. The Platinum trim, tested with AWD and a Premium package, reached a price point comparable to entry-level luxury vehicles. It featured diamond-pattern leather seats and soft-touch materials, providing a sense of luxury. Despite its high price, the Rogue's design and materials met the quality standards expected in the compact SUV segment.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 horsepower, paired with a CVT and standard FWD. AWD was available via an electric motor for the rear axle. It reached 60 mph in just over 8 seconds, slightly slower than gasoline-only rivals. The hybrid powertrain offered a quick initial response, but the engine's hum became a drone under heavy acceleration. The ride was soft yet confident, with minimal wind and road noise, making it one of the quieter midsize SUVs.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue featured a new 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder VC-Turbo engine, delivering 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. The CVT included paddle shifters, and the Rogue offered multiple driving modes. While responsive in urban settings, the engine lacked highway passing power and had an unusual note and vibration. The Rogue averaged 28.9 mpg, slightly below EPA expectations. It employed Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control for enhanced handling, though the steering felt lifeless. Overall, the Rogue balanced ride compliance and body control well.

The 2022 Highlander Hybrid offered well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments, though the driver's armrest was awkwardly positioned. Storage was plentiful, with various trays and bins. The second row was spacious, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs or an optional bench. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue served as a family car replacement, comfortably seating four adults with room for a fifth. The Platinum trim featured premium leather seats, though rear seat comfort was lacking. Storage was abundant but unlined, causing potential noise. The Rogue offered 36.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 74.1 cubic feet with the Divide-N-Hide feature.

The 2022 Highlander Hybrid included an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for higher trims. The system was responsive, with physical shortcut buttons and climate controls. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, with navigation and a JBL audio system available on higher trims.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue used an older infotainment system with an 8-inch or optional 9-inch touchscreen. The test vehicle had the larger screen, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and wireless Apple CarPlay. Alexa Built-in was new for 2023, though voice recognition struggled with accuracy. The Rogue also featured a 12.3-inch digital display and a head-up display, both performing well.

The 2022 Highlander Hybrid earned a five-star NHTSA rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. However, some systems required fine-tuning, such as abrupt adaptive cruise control stops.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue boasted Safety Shield 360, with features like forward-collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims offered ProPilot Assist with Navi-link, combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centering. The Rogue earned a five-star NHTSA rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+, though it scored lower in updated crash tests.