Review by Veeno Dewan
The 2021 Nissan Rogue, is the third-generation of the compact SUV and is one of the company’s best-selling vehicles. It is hitting the market with a new design, new engine, new platform, new chassis, and new feature packaging. The more squared-off and upright cabin layout gives the new Rogue a purposeful, contemporary look, Additions like active grille shutters and forward air vents are functional not for show and the Rogue has a lower co-efficient of drag figure of 0.331. Engineering upgrades include, a 27 per cent improvement in torsional rigidity and a 40-kilogram weight savings thanks to an updated platform and chassis. There is a redesigned multi-link rear suspension, and an updated set of stability control systems for better handling. The cabin that’s three decibels quieter and the rear doors open to 85 degrees, improving access to the second row.
The latest 2.5-litre four-cylinder unit is one of Nissan’s newer direct-injected engines, aimed at improving performance and fuel efficiency. There is 181 hp, an increase of 11 hp from the previous engine, along with an increase in torque by 6 lb-ft to 181 lb-ft. The motor is paired to a continuously variable transmission (CVT)
Standard on every Rogue is Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 suite that includes forward emergency braking with pedestrian detection, rear emergency braking, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and high beam assist. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity Heated front seats, steering wheel, and exterior mirrors are also part of the mix. The Rogue has a base starting price of $28,498 —all-wheel drive is $2,300 more on the S and SV grades. The SV trim, starts at an MSRP of $31,998 for the front-wheel-drive version and includes Nissan’s 360-degree Around View Monitor, a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and 18-inch wheels. All versions get a seven-inch driver information screen and an eight-inch infotainment system. The premium package ($2,200) adds leatherette upholstery, rear window sunshades, and a power liftgate.
We tested the top Platinum grade at $39,998 (available only with AWD), which adds: Heated outboard rear seats and a wireless phone charging pad. 19-inch wheels and 10.8-inch display, and the head up display. There is also available rear sunshades, and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. There is also a redesigned Divide and Hide cargo system is standard on the Premium. One of the highlights of the Nissan portfolio is the ProPILOT Assist system, the semi- autonomous driving and cruise control system.
The interior of the 2021 Rogue comes with some nice touches, Nissan. Platinum models offer awesome quilted leather upholstery, a stitched dashboard, and other luxury touches. Tech is high with multiple gadgets and digital screens; with a nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a cool 12.3-inch digital dashboard,; and a 10-inch head-up display (HUD) There are also a heated front seats and steering wheel, and Wireless smart phone charging is available along with USB Type-C and Type-A charging ports. The roomy cabin has decent enough storage space beneath the floating centre console while a central arm-rest storage provides even more room for hidden items. The rear is d spacious enough with adequate legroom. Cargo volume is 1,113 L behind the rear seats – and total space with the rear seats folded is 2,098 L.
On the road, the increase in power was noticeable when taken on the highway. Acceleration was smooth and the engine provided the needed power when having to pass. Highway handling is also noticeably improved with a new Electric Power Steering system. It responded well to quick lane changes and the updated suspension design kept the Rogue firmly planted to the road. Nissan’s Vehicle Motion Control System predicts what the driver is trying to do and provide greater control in taking corners and lane changes… A central control wheel allows one to easily change between five driving modes: off-road, snow, standard, eco and sport.
There are no real issues with Rogue, pricing is little higher than the competition, but the standard equipment levels more than make up for the still fairly reasonable base price. In summing up, the 2021 Nissan Rogue continues on IST mission to provide one of the best compact SUVs in it class. The improved interior cabin, abundance of technology, safety. And great road manners make the Nissan standout. Highly recommended
2021 Nissan Rogue: Priced from $28,498. Platinum AWD Model as tested: $41,963 including freight and PDE.
More info at www.nisssn.ca
