2021 Honda HR-V vs 2022 Nissan Rogue

The 2021 Honda HR-V presented a softer, friendlier appearance compared to Honda's larger SUVs, which typically featured more traditional and intimidating designs. Its distinctive styling included unique window lines converging near the taillights, housing the rear door handles. Most trims came with 17-inch alloy wheels, while the Sport model boasted matte-black 18-inch wheels and blacked-out trim. The interior, though plain, was functional with good material quality and fit. Higher trims offered features like push-button start, automatic climate control, and leather upholstery, enhancing the overall solid feel of the vehicle.

In contrast, the 2022 Nissan Rogue carried forward its mature styling from the previous year's redesign, aligning with Nissan's current design language. It featured a V-motion grille, multi-level LED headlights, and a floating roof illusion. The interior showcased a sophisticated layered dash design, with an electronic gear selector freeing up space in the center console. The Rogue's cabin was noted for its comfort, with Zero Gravity front seats and a spacious second row. The fit and finish were exemplary, particularly in the top-tier Platinum model, offering a refined and detailed look.

The 2021 Honda HR-V was powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine producing 141 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT. While AWD was available, FWD was standard. The HR-V was considered underpowered for highway driving, with the CVT compounding this issue. However, its chassis provided a rewarding driving experience on twisty roads, living up to Honda's reputation for fun cars. Despite its limitations in rough terrain and towing, the HR-V offered decent ride quality.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue, on the other hand, benefited from a new 1.5-liter VC-Turbo engine producing 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, significantly improving its performance. The engine's variable compression technology allowed for better power delivery and fuel efficiency, achieving 30 mpg city/37 mpg highway/33 mpg combined. The new CVT offered wider gear ratios, enhancing acceleration and responsiveness. The Rogue's chassis and suspension provided a smooth ride with minimal body roll, and its steering offered good feel and a tight turning diameter.

The 2021 Honda HR-V excelled in cargo space, offering 58.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded (57.6 for AWD models) and 24.3 cubic feet with them up (23.2 for AWD). It surpassed many competitors in cargo capacity and rear-seat legroom, though front-seat legroom and headroom were average. The interior featured sensibly-designed controls, including large climate control knobs and a standard tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue provided ample storage options throughout the cabin, with bottle holders, cupholders, and various cubbies. The second-row seat was a 60/40 split reclining bench, and the cargo area offered 31.6-36.5 cubic feet of space, expanding to 74.1 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Rogue's interior was designed with practicality in mind, catering to the needs of families and commuters alike.

The 2021 Honda HR-V's base LX trim included a 5-inch display and a four-speaker audio system, with a 7-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto available on higher trims. The infotainment system was functional but lacked the standard connectivity features offered by competitors, requiring an upgrade from the base trim for more advanced tech.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue featured a significant technology upgrade, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a 10.8-inch head-up display on upper trims. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless CarPlay available on higher trims. ProPilot Assist, a hands-on driver-assist system, was available, integrating with the navigation system for proactive speed adjustments.

The 2021 Honda HR-V received top "Good" scores in IIHS crash tests and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. However, its headlight ratings were "Marginal" and "Poor," and LATCH ease of use was rated "Acceptable." Honda Sensing safety features were available only on higher trims, including forward-collision warning and lane-keep assist.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue came standard with the Safety Shield 360 suite, including automatic emergency braking and blind spot monitoring. ProPilot Assist offered advanced driver-assist capabilities, and the Rogue received a four-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. The 2021 model was an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, though 2022 ratings were not yet available.