2021 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Subaru Ascent

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured handsome new styling that leaned into a more technical appearance. With dark gray plastic cladding covering its lower perimeter, the Rogue successfully conveyed the ruggedness expected of an SUV. Elements such as clean LED lighting, a prominent V-Motion grille, and proper proportioning combined to lend the Rogue a modern aesthetic. The 19-inch aluminum wheels and optional two-tone paint with a black roof further enhanced its visual appeal.

Four trim levels were available: S ($25,650), SV ($27,340), SL ($32,000), and the new Platinum ($35,430). Each trim added unique elements, from basic functionality to near-luxurious amenities. Our test vehicle, a Rogue SL, sported Almond leather interiors and a panoramic sunroof that emphasized its improved roominess. The use of soft-touch surfaces, simulated wood trim, and fabric-wrapped windshield pillars contributed to a sense of quality. The climate control panel evoked some nostalgia with numbers resembling an old-school digital clock from the 1980s, and it even housed a CD player, although it also supported wireless Apple CarPlay.

In contrast, when Subaru introduced the Ascent in 2019, it marked its return to the three-row SUV segment, filling a glaring hole in their lineup. The Ascent took visual cues from the Forester and Outback but scaled them up to fit the midsize three-row configuration. The cabin design was similar to other Subaru models, likely an effort for brand consistency.

The Ascent was available in four trims: Standard, Premium, Limited, and Touring. Each trim level added increasing levels of comfort and utility. The Standard trim offered a solid package of driver-assistance features, a 6.5-inch touchscreen, and tri-zone climate control. Higher trims brought upgrades like larger touchscreen displays, power-adjustable seats, and premium audio systems. The top-trim Touring featured ventilated front seats, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue had a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 181 pound-feet of torque at 3,600 rpm. While adequate for everyday use, this setup left something to be desired in terms of power, especially given the SUV’s nearly 3,500-pound weight. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) did an admirable job of leveraging available torque, featuring programmed ratios and paddle shifters for a more traditional feel.

With up to 8.2 inches of ground clearance, optional all-wheel drive (AWD), and various driving modes like Snow and Off-Road, the Rogue was better suited for light adventuring. Nissan hinted at future enhancements, possibly with turbocharging, which could address the Rogue’s power deficit.

Fuel efficiency for the tested Rogue SL with front-wheel drive (FWD) was 27.5 mpg, slightly lower than the EPA rating. The Rogue also offered refined steering and ride quality, thanks to its new, robust architecture comprising 35% high-strength steel, enhanced suspension systems, and advanced vehicle control features.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent, on the other hand, came powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer four-cylinder engine making 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a CVT and Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, the engine was versatile enough for both city driving and highway acceleration.

The Ascent’s ride prioritized comfort, soaking up bumps and offering responsive handling through corners, crucial for inclement weather often associated with Subaru's popularity. The Ascent featured 8.7 inches of ground clearance, making it adept at handling light off-roading scenarios and towing up to 5,000 pounds, compared to the Rogue's capabilities.

Nissan’s 2021 Rogue boasted an impressive focus on interior comfort with its Zero Gravity seat designs, which aimed to lessen stress on the bones and joints. Available in various upholsteries, including premium leather in higher trims, the seats ensured comfort across the board. However, ventilated seats were notably missing from the Rogue’s offerings.

Nissan's improvements were evident in rear-seat space and versatility, accommodating three child safety seats with ease and a nearly 90-degree rear-door opening. Triple-zone climate control added to passenger comfort, and storage solutions like a new electronic shifter-enhanced center console provided utility. Cargo space was generous, with the Rogue offering 31.6 cubic feet in S and SV trims, and up to 36.5 cubic feet in SL and Platinum trims. Folding the rear seat down expanded the maximum volume to 74.1 cubic feet.

The Subaru Ascent provided 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 47.5 cubic feet with the third row folded and up to 86.5 cubic feet with all rear seats down. Though these figures were commendable within its segment, some competitors like the Volkswagen Atlas and Chevrolet Traverse offered more.

The Ascent's standard power liftgate, spacious first two rows, and versatility with second-row captain’s chairs showcased its family-friendly design. An impressive 19 cupholders and multiple trays and cubbies amplified practicality for long trips.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue excelled in its infotainment offerings. Standard equipment in the S trim included an 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, SiriusXM satellite radio, and both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims enhanced the experience with features like NissanConnect Services, a WiFi hotspot, and voice integration with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. The top-tier Platinum trim offered a larger 9-inch display, wireless Apple CarPlay, a Bose premium audio system, wireless smartphone charging, a digital instrument cluster, and a head-up display.

Subaru’s StarLink infotainment system in the Ascent was praised for its logical layout, large icons, and additional hard buttons and dials. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, complemented by four USB ports, satellite radio, and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims offered more USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and a premium 14-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.

Safety was paramount for the 2021 Nissan Rogue, equipped with Nissan Safety Shield 360 across all trims. This comprehensive suite included features such as automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added ProPilot Assist with lane-centering and adaptive cruise control. However, the Rogue’s advanced ProPilot Assist with Navi-link sometimes led to unanticipated vehicle behaviors.

The Ascent was an IIHS 2021 Top Safety Pick+, attributed to its robust EyeSight suite of driver assistance technologies. This suite included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, reverse automatic emergency braking, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and advanced headlights.