- the 2021 nissan rogue gets a comprehensive redesign with more attractive exterior styling and a nicer interior.
- it is powered by a 181-hp 2.5-liter inline-four engine paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission and either front- or all-wheel drive.
- the 2021 rogue will arrive at nissan dealerships this fall.
the nissan rogue is entering the 2021 model year with a carefully considered redesign that aims to put it back in the compact-crossover hunt. while the outgoing model had become uncompetitive over the years against the newer honda cr-v and toyota rav4, this new rogue looks more attractive on the outside, features a more upscale cabin, and promises improved driving dynamics.
nissan says the 2021 rogue rides on a new platform, but it doesn't change much in size compared with its predecessor. the wheelbase is the same, but overall length shrinks by 1.5 inches, and it continues to offer two rows of seats (the previous rogue offered a third row earlier in its run but dropped that option in recent years). there's less cargo space behind the second row of seats, with the new model offering 37 cubic feet to the old model's 39. the new design is said to be taken from nissan's 2018 xmotion concept car, and we like the chunkier look, especially at the rear where the squared-off greenhouse gives the new rogue nice proportions.
an updated version of the rogue's 2.5-liter inline-four is found under the hood of all 2021 models, as there's no hybrid version or more powerful engine option. this engine makes 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, improvements of 11 hp and 6 lb-ft. a continuously variable automatic transmission is standard across the board, and front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive optional. nissan claims fuel economy goes up by 1 to 2 mpg depending on model, with the 2021 rogue achieving between 28 mpg and 30 mpg combined.
s, sv, and sl trim levels carry over, and there's a new loaded platinum model that has extras including a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, quilted leather upholstery, and wireless apple carplay. two-tone exterior color options with a black roof will also be offered for more visual variety. most driver-assistance features are standard equipment even on the base model, and nissan's propilot assist semi-autonomous system is available on the sl and platinum.
the rogue's upgraded interior looks good, with a fresh dashboard design and an apparent uptick in material quality. nissan says the rear seat offers more kneeroom and headroom, and there are additional niceties for passengers, including optional rear-window sunshades and tri-zone climate control on higher trims. the center console area offers more storage than before thanks to a space-saving electronic shifter setup. an 8.0-inch infotainment screen with smartphone mirroring is standard, and a larger 9.0-inch screen is available on sl and platinum models. a head-up display is offered on the rogue platinum.
the 2021 rogue will go on sale this fall. its starting price should remain in the $26,000 range, while the loaded platinum model with all-wheel drive may approach $40,000.