2021 Nissan Rogue vs 2020 Nissan Rogue

The 2020 Nissan Rogue was available in S, SV, and SL Platinum trim levels, offering a straightforward choice between front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). Our test vehicle, the SL Platinum, was priced at an estimated $37,998 CAD, excluding a $1,930 destination charge. Despite its age, the Rogue maintained an attractive appearance, with a bold V-Motion grille and exaggerated fender swells. The 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels on the SL Platinum added to its appeal. However, the interior design showed its age, with a waterfall control panel and rounded surfaces that contrasted with the modern trend of wide, angular motifs. The plastic surfaces were unimpressive, but the padded centre console sides were a thoughtful touch for driver comfort.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Rogue underwent a complete redesign, giving it a muscular and imposing presence. The updated nose featured a squared-off design with a deeper V-Motion grille, flanked by standard LED headlamps and functional air vents. These elements contributed to a lower coefficient of drag, despite the boxier proportions. The exterior colour palette was simplified, with two-tone options available on the Platinum grade. Inside, the Rogue offered cloth seating surfaces in most grades, with leatherette upholstery available in the SV AWD model. The Platinum model featured semi-aniline quilted Nappa leather, elevating the interior to a more luxurious level.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue was equipped with a single 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 170 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), the powertrain was adequate for the vehicle's weight of 1,664 kilograms. While the CVT made the most of the available power, the Rogue struggled during highway acceleration, passing, and climbing. Fuel efficiency was also a concern, with the FWD version achieving no better than 9.4 L/100 km during testing, despite official ratings suggesting 8.2 L/100 km. The ride and handling were improved by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the Rogue's heavy steering and lack of suspension isolation made it less enjoyable to drive.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured a new direct-injected 2.5-litre engine, delivering 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. This represented a modest improvement over the previous generation. The engine was well-matched to the Rogue's weight, ranging from 1,536 kilograms for the FWD S grade to 1,653 kilograms for the AWD Platinum model. The CVT was less droning than before, and while no alternate powertrain was offered, the standard performance was satisfactory. Fuel efficiency was reasonable, with the FWD version rated at 8.1 L/100 km combined and the AWD version at 8.3 L/100 km. The new design improved handling, with a 27% increase in torsional rigidity, a lower weight, and updated suspension and stability control systems, resulting in a stable and planted road feel.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior comfort was a mixed bag. The seats, though undersized, featured Nissan's Zero Gravity design and Quick Comfort heating. However, taller drivers struggled to find a comfortable seating position due to limited seat height adjustment. The rear seats offered excellent thigh support, legroom, and a good backrest angle, with a panoramic glass moonroof enhancing the view. In-cabin storage was limited, but the cargo area was generous, with 1,112 litres of space and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue introduced several functional updates across all trims. The cabin was quieter, and a new shift-by-wire system added storage space under the centre stack. Rear doors opened to 85 degrees, improving access, and second-row headroom was increased. Standard features included heated front seats, steering wheel, and mirrors, with upgrades available in higher trims. The Platinum grade featured a redesigned Divide and Hide cargo system, offering 1,028 litres of space with the seats upright and 2,064 litres with them folded. The system's topmost shelf setting was removed, but a rail system allowed for cargo separation.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and a hands-free text messaging assistant. Upgrades included navigation, a Bose audio system, and NissanConnect Services, offering remote access and safety features. However, the 7-inch touchscreen interface was outdated, with slow response times and subpar voice recognition.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM. The SV grade added a Wi-Fi hotspot, additional USB ports, and NissanConnect services. The Platinum grade offered a 9-inch screen, wireless phone charging, and wireless Apple CarPlay. A 10.8-inch head-up display and a Bose audio system were also included, though the digital instrument cluster's graphics were hard to read.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with Nissan's Safety Shield 360, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional options included ProPilot Assist and a surround-view camera. However, the Rogue's safety ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA and no Top Safety Pick designation from IIHS.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue also featured Safety Shield 360 as standard, with ProPILOT Assist available on the SV model. The Platinum grade added Navi-link for enhanced highway driving assistance. The 2021 Rogue received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS and a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA, with improvements in frontal crash testing for later models.