When Nissan began designing the next Rogue, its flagship model in the industry’s largest segment, the watchwords were adventure and style.

It also focused on functionality, flexibility, technology and safety with the simple goal of making life easier and more beautiful for its occupants.

Completely redesigned, the Rogue 2021 offers a new platform, powertrain, safety technologies, connectivity and convenience features that place it at the top of its class.

The all-new Rogue crossover is the first of five new or redesigned Nissan models to be produced in the coming year.

The Altima, Versa, Sentra and TITAN have also recently been redesigned.

High-end driving dynamics

All Rogue 2021 models come standard with a 2.5-litre, DOHC, I4 engine with Nissan’s Direct Injection Gasoline (DIGTM) system.

This engine produces 181 horsepower, 11 more than the previous model, and 181 lb. ft. of torque, a 6 lb. ft. increase.

The new engine features a reflective spray paint finish, a variable flow oil pump, an integrated exhaust manifold and a continuously variable electronic valve timing control system, among other features.

The Rogue 2021 also incorporates a new electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system with a faster gear ratio, helping to limit course corrections.

Other new features include rigid-mounted struts (six-point) and, in the rear, a multi-link suspension.

Braking is provided by standard four-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

The Rogue’s driving experience is enhanced by the all-new Vehicle Motion Control System.

“This technology does what humans can’t,” said Chris Reed, Senior Vice President, Research and Development, Nissan North American Engineering Research Centre. “ It anticipates the driver’s intentions by analyzing acceleration, braking and steering wheel movement. If necessary, it intervenes to make sure everything goes smoothly. ”

Vehicle Motion Control works in combination with the intelligent all-wheel-drive system and the driving mode selector to allow individual control of all four wheels.

This results in particular in improved trajectory in curves, even when using only one brake.

The chassis control module analyzes and adjusts the steering and settings of the engine, transmission, vehicle dynamics control system and all-wheel-drive system.

On front-wheel-drive versions, you can push a button to toggle between three driving modes: Sport, Normal and Eco.

All-wheel-drive versions offer five driving modes – Offroad, Snow, Normal, Eco and Sport – which are activated by a selector switch integrated into the centre console.

When activated at all times, Vehicle Motion Control is particularly useful when tackling a snow-covered slope or curve, driving through deep snow or off-roading (on a beach or dirt road, for example).

The available enhanced Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system includes a new electro-hydraulic clutch mechanism that precisely and quickly controls torque by anticipating front-wheel slippage to better distribute torque to the rear.

A Style that makes a statement

Inside and out, the style reflects the spirit of Rogue. It exudes versatility, fun, daring and adventure.

This adventurous exterior style combines athletic strength with a luxurious appearance.

The Rogue 2021 retains Nissan’s signature design elements, such as the floating roof and redesigned V-shaped grille, and adds several new features such as uniquely shaped headlights and U-shaped side bolsters.

These new multi-level LED headlights with extended illumination zone, standard on all trim levels, highlight the strong grille. The Platinum version is also equipped with LED fog lights.

The chassis has been shortened by 3.8 cm (1.5 in) and lowered by 0.5 cm (0.2 in) from the previous generation, contributing to the athletic look and improving handling.

Key aerodynamic features include “three-dimensional” spoilers integrated into the lower front fascia, an automatic flap system that controls airflow to the engine compartment, unusually shaped front pillars, plates that control airflow under the vehicle, and “air curtains” that precisely redirect air from the centre of the vehicle to the sides.

The Rogue 2021 will be available in multiple colours, including four two-tone combinations – a first.

A modern and luxurious interior

While the Rogue 2021 stands out for its functionality and luxury, it’s also generous with amenities and equipment for weekday trips and weekend getaways.

Equipped for Canadian winters, the new Rogue comes standard with heated front seats, a heated steering wheel and heated outside mirrors.

Heated rear seats are optional on the SV model, while a two-position memory seat is available on the Platinum model.

The optional Intelligent Perimeter Display, combined with the standard Cross Traffic Alert System (standard) and Intelligent Emergency Braking in Reverse (standard), helps the driver start his or her day in the right direction.

Front and rear Zero Gravity Seats provide the best comfort for short or long journeys.

Prima-Tex leatherette seats are available as an option on the SV Premium model, and semi-aniline stitched leather seats are standard on the Platinum model.

Three interior colours are available: graphite, grey and brown.

In the rear part of the cabin, ideal for weekend getaways, the seats fold individually with a one-button (or optional remote) system to create a versatile cargo area.

Combined with a reconfigured trunk, luggage compartment liners, easy-to-wash floor mats, a redesigned Divide-N-Hide system (optional) and an available motion-activated liftgate, the Rogue is built for family adventures.

The new electronic shifter eliminates mechanical parts found under a conventional shift lever, allowing for additional storage space under the new “floating” centre console.

Among the many additional technologies are standard push-button start, rear door warning and proper tire pressure warning.

NissanConnect Technology with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is also standard and includes a Bluetooth Hands-Free Phone System, Hands-Free Text Messaging Wizard, Bluetooth Audio Streaming, Siri Eyes Free, Google Assistant and SiriusXM radio (subscription required, sold separately).

Nissan’s Door-to-Door Navigation System is standard on Platinum, while NissanConnect services provided by SiriusXM are standard on SV (subscription required, sold separately).

A wide range of safety technologies

The all-new Rogue is the newest vehicle in Nissan’s lineup to feature the standard 360-degree safety shield in all versions.

This technology includes an Intelligent Emergency Braking System with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, High Beam Assist and Intelligent Emergency Braking in Reverse.

The Rogue 2021 also offers 10 standard airbags and larger deformation zones for improved occupant protection.

In addition to the 360-degree safety shield, the new Rogue offers Intelligent Driver Alert and Rear Door Alert, standard on all trim levels.

Optional features include Blind Spot Intervention, Traffic Sign Recognition and ProPILOT, an assistance system that incorporates intelligent cruise control.

A family-oriented Rogue

The interior of the Rogue 2021 is a true “family cocoon” that offers comfort and functionality to all its occupants, front and rear.

For example, Nissan’s Intelligent Key is now linked to the rear doors as well.

Driver and passengers can unlock a rear door by pressing the button on the rear door handle once (or all doors by pressing twice), instead of having to press the button on the front door.

The doors are larger and open 85 degrees, allowing easy access to a child seat and easier entry and exit.

The rear seat can accommodate one child seat in all three seating positions in a variety of ways, so adults or large children can sit on either side of a centre-mounted child seat.

In addition, the front centre console with “butterfly” opening is easily accessible from both front and rear.

And thanks to the available Remote Start System1 with Intelligent Climate Control, parents can warm or cool the cabin before their children get in.

For rear-seat passenger comfort, there are Zero-Gravity folding seats with anti-fatigue lumbar support inspired by NASA technologies (standard) and heated seats (optional).

And for the first time ever, the Rogue is equipped with optional Tri-Zone Climate Control, which allows rear-seat occupants to set the temperature in their own part of the cabin.

Also available are optional upward-folding sunshades for both rear doors.

In the rear cargo area, accessible through an optional motion-activated tailgate, there’s a redesigned Divide-N-Hide storage system that keeps your belongings safe and out of sight.

The space to the right, behind the wheel well, is designed to hold larger items such as a bottle of windshield washer fluid.

Optional: state-of-the-art connected technologies

Nissan believes that technology should make our lives easier and more beautiful.

Drivers can enjoy the wonders of wireless connectivity.

With optional wireless Apple CarPlay, drivers and passengers can stream music through Rogue’s speakers from their iPhone while leaving it in their pocket, purse or backpack.

In addition, a new optional wireless smartphone charger allows you to charge devices with different power modes (up to 15W) while the vehicle is in motion.

The charging platform is located on the centre console in front of the electronic gearshift and the two cup holders. The console also includes USB C and A ports.

The integration of three digital displays makes it easy to access vehicle information.

The combination of the 10.8-inch full-colour head-up display, 12.3-inch meter display and the large 9.0-inch floating touch screen (optional on all three) allows the driver to customize and enhance the driving experience.

The available Head-Up Display (optional), another first for Rogue, is designed to make life easier and less stressful for the driver, allowing him or her to keep an eye on the surroundings and the road while accessing a wealth of vehicle information.

At 10.8″ (274 mm) in size, the display is one of the largest in its class.

Below it, integrated into the instrument panel, is the optional 12.3-inch (312 mm) wide Advanced Meter Display (AMD); in entry-level models, a 7.0-inch (178 mm) centre display replaces the previous 5.0-inch (127 mm) display.

The integration of specially designed visual elements in the background greatly enhances contrast and image quality. The 12.3″ and 7.0″ screens are fully customizable, allowing the driver to choose what information is displayed and how it is presented.

The third digital display is located in the centre of the large dashboard. This is an optional 9.0″ (229 mm) “floating” touch screen that produces crisp images.

It provides access to the navigation system, audio controls, weather data, rearview camera and the optional Intelligent Perimeter Display.

Through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, drivers of the all-new Rogue can use Google Maps and Waze with voice commands to view road conditions at their leisure and avoid construction sites.

Optional: the new ProPILOT assistance system with Navi-link

The Rogue is one of the first vehicles to be equipped with Nissan’s ProPILOT Drive Assist System, a power-assisted driving technology that reduces the inconvenience of driving in traffic jams and makes long highway trips easier.

Available starting with the SV model, this system combines power steering and intelligent cruise control to help the driver control acceleration, braking and steering in heavy, fluid traffic.

For 2021, the ProPILOT assistance system has been enhanced with the latest technology radar and new generation cameras for smoother braking, better power steering control and better detection of vehicles in the same lane.

In addition, the ProPILOT assistance system with Navi-link is standard in the Platinum version and offers several new features.

When linked to Nissan’s Door-to-Door Navigation System, it can analyze navigation data to slow the vehicle as it approaches curves and junctions on the highway and when approaching exits.

Finally, the old 3-second limit for highway stop-and-go has been extended to 30 seconds (ProPILOT with Navi-link required), allowing the vehicle to remain stationary and restart automatically without the driver having to reactivate the function or press the accelerator.

In addition, with the optional Sign Recognition System, the vehicle can automatically adjust its speed according to the speed limit.

Versions for every taste

As with previous generations, the new Rogue comes in three well-equipped versions: S, SV and Platinum.

The Rogue 2021 will arrive at Nissan Canada dealerships in the fall of 2020.