Hey car enthusiasts! Are you guys in the market for a compact SUV that balances practicality, comfort, and a touch of modern flair? Well, look no further because today, we're diving deep into the 2021 Nissan Rogue! I'm going to take you through an Edmunds review of this popular vehicle, breaking down everything from its performance and interior to its tech features and overall value proposition. We'll examine why the 2021 Nissan Rogue is a solid choice for families and daily commuters. So, buckle up, and let's get started!

The Nissan Rogue: A Compact SUV Redefined

Alright, let's kick things off with a little background. The Nissan Rogue has always been a key player in the compact SUV segment, and the 2021 model year marked a significant redesign. Nissan really went back to the drawing board, giving the Rogue a fresh look, a more refined interior, and a host of updated features. This generation of the Rogue boasts a more sculpted exterior design. The 2021 Rogue is generally considered a good option in its class because it has many positive attributes.

One of the main goals for Nissan in redesigning the Rogue was to make it feel more upscale and appealing to a broader range of buyers. This means the 2021 model offers a more premium driving experience. From a visual perspective, the 2021 Rogue showcases a more contemporary and stylish design. The front fascia features Nissan's signature V-motion grille, which is bolder and more prominent than before, instantly giving the SUV a more assertive appearance. The sleek LED headlights and taillights add a touch of sophistication, and the overall lines of the vehicle are smoother and more aerodynamic. These design choices contribute to a more modern and eye-catching aesthetic, helping the Rogue stand out in a crowded market. But the changes aren't just cosmetic; there were also improvements under the hood, with a focus on enhancing efficiency and the overall driving experience. Furthermore, the 2021 Nissan Rogue received a significant upgrade in its technology and safety features. The interior was also redesigned with high-quality materials and innovative features to improve both comfort and convenience. Now, is the 2021 Nissan Rogue the best choice for you? We'll dive into the details, so keep reading!

Performance and Driving Experience

Now, let's talk about what's under the hood and how the 2021 Nissan Rogue performs on the road. The 2021 Rogue is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers 181 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. This engine provides adequate power for everyday driving, including merging onto highways and navigating city streets. It's not a powerhouse, but it offers a smooth and responsive driving experience. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). CVT is known for its ability to optimize fuel efficiency. The CVT in the Rogue is designed to minimize the rubber-band feel that some people dislike. The 2021 Rogue is available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. AWD models are great if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions. Overall, the 2021 Nissan Rogue is known for its comfortable ride and easy handling. It's not the sportiest SUV in its class, but it prioritizes comfort and practicality. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a smooth and composed ride. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. For those of you who prioritize fuel efficiency, the Rogue excels. The FWD models achieve an EPA-estimated 30 mpg combined, while the AWD models get around 29 mpg combined. This makes it a great choice for those who want to save money on gas.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Alright, let's get inside and see what the 2021 Nissan Rogue has to offer in terms of comfort, technology, and convenience. The interior of the 2021 Rogue has been completely redesigned, with a focus on creating a more premium and inviting environment. The materials used throughout the cabin are of high quality, with soft-touch surfaces on the dashboard, doors, and armrests. The seats are supportive and comfortable, providing excellent comfort for both short commutes and long road trips. The Rogue offers ample space for passengers in both the front and rear seats, making it a great choice for families. The rear seats offer plenty of legroom, and the rear doors open wide, which makes it easy to install child car seats.

The 2021 Rogue also has a long list of technology features. The base model, the S trim, comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. As you move up the trim levels, you'll find even more advanced features, such as a 9-inch touchscreen, a digital instrument panel, a premium sound system, and a panoramic sunroof. The infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive. It offers crisp graphics and easy-to-use controls. The inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allows you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. This means you can access your favorite apps, make calls, and send texts hands-free. The Rogue also has several standard safety features. The 2021 Nissan Rogue is equipped with Nissan's Safety Shield 360 suite. This suite includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high beams. These features are designed to help you stay safe on the road by warning you of potential hazards and even intervening to prevent accidents. These safety features give you peace of mind, knowing that you and your passengers are protected. The Rogue's interior is a comfortable and well-equipped space. It's a great place to spend time. Nissan has done a great job of creating a modern and functional interior. The Rogue will certainly keep you and your passengers happy.

Trim Levels and Features

Now, let's explore the different trim levels offered for the 2021 Nissan Rogue to help you figure out which one is the perfect fit for you. The 2021 Rogue is available in four main trim levels: S, SV, SL, and Platinum. Each trim level builds upon the previous one, adding more features and premium touches. The S trim is the base model. It includes standard features like an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite. The SV trim adds additional features, such as a power-adjustable driver's seat, a remote start system, and a hands-free power liftgate. The SL trim adds leather upholstery, a 9-inch touchscreen, a surround-view monitor, and ProPilot Assist, Nissan's advanced driver-assistance system. Finally, the Platinum trim is the top-of-the-line model. It features quilted leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, a digital instrument panel, and more advanced technology. Each trim level has unique features to meet different needs and budgets. The base S trim is a great value, providing essential features and a comfortable driving experience. The SV trim offers a nice balance of features and value, making it a popular choice. The SL and Platinum trims provide a more luxurious experience. These trims come with more advanced technology and premium features. The key is to decide which features are most important to you and your budget. This way, you can choose the trim level that best suits your needs.

Pros and Cons of the 2021 Nissan Rogue

Like any car, the 2021 Nissan Rogue has its strengths and weaknesses. So, let's take a quick look at the pros and cons. Starting with the pros, the 2021 Rogue offers a comfortable ride. Its suspension is tuned to absorb bumps, providing a smooth and composed experience. The Rogue also gets great fuel efficiency. With an EPA-estimated 30 mpg combined for FWD models, it's a great choice for those who want to save money on gas. The Rogue's interior is another plus. It has a modern and spacious cabin, with high-quality materials and user-friendly technology. And, of course, the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite comes standard. This gives drivers a lot of peace of mind. Now, let's look at the cons. Some reviewers have noted that the engine's acceleration can feel a bit sluggish, especially when merging onto highways or passing other vehicles. The infotainment system can sometimes feel a bit slow to respond. The Rogue also has a somewhat limited cargo capacity compared to some of its competitors. Overall, the 2021 Nissan Rogue is a well-rounded SUV. It has many advantages that make it a great choice for families and daily commuters. Just keep the cons in mind to decide if the Rogue is right for you. Weighing the pros and cons will help you decide if the Rogue is the best fit for your needs.

Edmunds' Verdict: Is the 2021 Nissan Rogue a Good Buy?

So, what's the final verdict from Edmunds? Overall, the 2021 Nissan Rogue is a compelling choice in the compact SUV segment. It offers a comfortable ride, a well-designed interior, and a strong suite of standard safety features. The fuel efficiency is another significant advantage, making it a great option for those who prioritize fuel economy. While the engine's acceleration might not be the quickest in its class, the Rogue excels in other areas. It's a practical and versatile SUV that's well-suited for families and daily commuters. For those who prioritize comfort, safety, and fuel efficiency, the 2021 Nissan Rogue is definitely worth considering. It offers a great value proposition, especially when compared to some of its competitors. If you're looking for a compact SUV that delivers a comfortable and safe driving experience, the Rogue should be on your list. Make sure to take a test drive to see if it's the right fit for you. The 2021 Nissan Rogue is a solid contender in a competitive segment. You can't go wrong choosing the 2021 Nissan Rogue!