So, you’ve decided on the model of the new car you want to buy: the Nissan Rogue. This popular crossover SUV is a hit among drivers, with great fuel economy, reliability ratings, and room for passengers and cargo. But each year, a new model year introduces another new Nissan Rogue. That means you’re stuck between choosing the newest model or last year’s model, a decision you just don’t want to get wrong since you’ll be relying heavily on your new SUV. Most people think buying the latest – the 2021 Nissan Rogue – is the best choice. But how do you know which is really the best? Search online to compare both the 2020 and 2021 Nissan Rogue models.
Each model year is a bit different from the previous one. Some are drastically different as vehicles are revamped; some are lightly refreshed. Some might have no changes at all other than in price. To find out whether the 2020 Nissan Rogue or 2021 Nissan Rogue is a better buy, search online to discover the differences.
Here’s what you need to know in order to make an informed decision about the two most current Nissan Rogue model years.
The Facts and Features About the 2020 Nissan Rogue
MSRP: Starts at $25,300.
The 2020 Nissan Rogue blended modern styling with plenty of comfort to create one of the best-selling compact crossover SUVs available. It includes a host of features that improve passengers’ comfort on the road, and there are a number of smart safety features and infotainment options that come standard.
The highlights of the 2020 Rogue include:
- 170 horsepower
- Continuously variable automatic transmission
- 26 city / 33 highway MPG
- NissanConnect standard infotainment system with 7-inch touchscreen
- Standard forward collision warning
- ProPilot Assist available as an option
- Standard automated emergency braking
- Lane departure warning and lane keep assist
- 3-year or 36,000-mile warranty
However, the 2020 Nissan Rogue isn’t perfect. This model year struggles, particularly when it comes to the engine. The four-cylinder standard engine is slow and not very responsive, and it seems to have difficulty hauling the vehicle’s weight. Every drive feels a bit heavy-handed, as if you’re driving a much larger SUV, and it underperforms compared to competing compact crossovers. The base model is also quite stripped down, featuring lower-quality materials and a lack of options.
The Newest Changes to the 2021 Nissan Rogue
MSRP: Starts at $25,650.
The 2021 Nissan Rogue is completely new. This compact crossover has undergone a total redesign for 2021, updating its exterior styling and modernizing what’s inside. That means the 2021 Rogue performs better both on the road and from behind the wheel. In fact, the redesign improves the Rogue so much that it’s now far better than mediocre. Sleeker and more appealing, there’s a lot to love about the latest model.
Some of the best features and details you’ll find on the 2021 Rogue include:
- 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine
- 181 horsepower
- Continuously variable automatic transmission
- 26 city / 33 highway MPG
- Optional all-wheel drive
- 37 cubic feet of cargo space
- Richer interior materials and design, including storage cubbies
- 8.0 inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Blind spot monitoring
- Rear cross traffic alerts
- Available adaptive cruise control and semi-autonomous driving mode
The disadvantages on the 2021 Rogue are few and far between. This model year is speedier and handles better, though it does still lag a bit when getting up to speed. Rear cargo space behind the Rogue’s seats has decreased by two cubic feet. But overall, most aspects of this crossover SUV have been updated and upgraded.
Which Model Year is the Better Financial Choice?
While you can directly compare the 2020 Rogue to the 2021 Rogue to decide which model is best, it’s also a good idea to think about the choice from a financial perspective.
Buying the latest model year is the easy choice. It’s brand new – you won’t have any issues and can drive off the lot without worrying about anything at all. But choosing the 2021 model can come with a higher price. Even as auto dealerships offer incentives and deals, new cars are always more expensive than older versions of the very same vehicles.
Just look at the base price of the 2021 Rogue versus the 2020 Rogue. The 2020 is cheaper. And because dealerships want to get rid of last year’s models, you’re more likely to find a deal or low-priced discount on 2020 models.
You also don’t want to forget about depreciation. Every new car depreciates, and it depreciates fast. On average, a new car depreciates as much as 19 percent in its first year – and some lose value even faster.
You need to determine whether you want to pay a higher price and lose value immediately or opt for last year’s model and save a bit. A lower price can make depreciation less important. After all, if you spend less, there’s less value to lose.
Search Online to See the Latest Pricing on Nissan Rogue Models
If you’re torn between the 2020 Nissan Rogue and the 2021 Nissan Rogue, take the time to do some research. Search online to learn the ins and outs of each model. Look at the different features and compare them so you can determine which best meets your needs.
While the newest model year is always attention-grabbing and exciting, it may not be the smartest financial move. However, there are pros and cons to buying either model year when you’re looking at the Nissan Rogue. Search online, and you’ll be able to see the latest pricing, along with current deals and offers, so you can make an informed decision.
