Overview
Compact crossovers are a particularly important model for any full-line automaker, and Nissan’s Rogue SUV is an especially popular choice among consumers, and the 2021 model receives a much-needed redesign. The all-new 2021 Rogue will offer more attractive styling, modernized interior tech, and—hopefully—improved acceleration performance and driving dynamics. Nissan says the latest-generation Rogue will go into production later this year, and we expect it to roll onto dealer lots sometime in the fall. When it does, it will go toe-to-toe against segment leaders, such as the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, and Volkswagen Tiguan.
What’s New for 2021?
The 2021 model year will mark the start of a new generation for the Nissan Rogue. The compact SUV will receive a ground-up redesign and if spy photos and leaked images are accurate, its boxier styling will give it a more handsome and truck-like appearance.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
- S: $ 26,000 (est.)
- SV: $ 28,000 (est.)
- SL: $ 31,000 (est.)
- Platinum: $ 33,000 (est.)
We aren’t exactly sure how much Nissan will charge for the 2021 Rogue or which trim levels will be offered when it reaches dealerships this fall, but if it follows the current model’s structure, we’ll see three or four trim levels, with the base model starting at around $ 26,000. The mid-level SV or SL models likely will offer the best mix of features for the money. However, those seeking all the luxuries will be wooed by a presumptive Platinum model. Once we know more about the 2021 Rogue’s various models and features, we’ll update this story with details.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
We expect the 2021 Rogue to share mechanicals with the Nissan Altima sedan, which would mean a 188-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) could be the SUV’s standard powertrain. We’re particularly interested in seeing the company drop the Altima’s 248-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter under the Rogue’s hood, but so far the company is keeping those details a secret. Front-wheel drive will likely be standard, but all-wheel drive will be an optional feature.
cars_secrets via Instagram
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Fuel economy estimates from the EPA haven’t been released, and obviously we haven’t had the chance to test the 2021 Rogue on our 200-mile highway fuel-economy route. When we get the opportunity to do so, we’ll update this story with results.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
According to photos that were leaked on Instagram of what we believe to be the 2021 Rogue’s most expensive trim level, the SUV’s new interior borrows styling cues from both the Altima and the recently redesigned Sentra compact car. Quilted leather seats, a two-tone dashboard, and a squared-off shift knob are rich-looking design elements. We can also see from these photos that dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel will all be available features. Based on the shape of the new Rogue, we expect passenger space inside to be about the same as the current model, and cargo capacity should be similar as well.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Standing proud and tall on the dashboard is a touchscreen infotainment system. While a 7.0-inch unit likely will be standard on the 2021 Rogue, we expect a larger 8.0-inch screen to be available on upper trims or via an optional package. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto should be standard, and high-end features, such as in-dash navigation or a Bose stereo system, are likely to be optional. We can also see from the leaked photos that the Rogue will be offered with a reconfigurable digital gauge cluster, but it’s unclear whether or not that will be a standard or optional feature. We’ll know more about the new Rogue’s available infotainment features closer to its on-sale date.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Neither the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) nor the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) have performed crash tests on the 2021 Rogue. However, we expect both agencies to weigh in on the SUV’s safety soon. We expect Nissan to equip the Rogue with a host of standard driver-assistance features to help it compete with well-equipped rivals, such as the Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Forester, but the company hasn’t released those details yet. Key safety features are likely include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
- Available adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Nissan’s standard warranty coverage offers no frills, and rivals, such as the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson, provide longer periods of protection and, in the case of the Hyundai, three years of complimentary scheduled maintenance.
- Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
