2021 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Nissan Rogue is 9.0 out of 10, while the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan scores 7.3 out of 10. Based on these assessments, the Nissan Rogue comes highly recommended for its comprehensive blend of style, performance, and cutting-edge technology, making it a superior choice for consumers seeking a versatile and well-equipped compact SUV.
Choose the 2021 Nissan Rogue if:
- You prioritize modern styling and a robust range of trim and customization options.
- Comfort and advanced active safety features are top of your list.
- You desire a well-rounded SUV with strong performance adaptability.
Choose the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan if:
- You prefer a classic and understated design that focuses on long-term appeal.
- Interior space, especially with optional third-row seating, is crucial for your needs.
- An emphasis on standard driving dynamics suitable for urban environments is important.
Overview | |
MSRP$26,050 | MSRP$25,245 |
Average price$22,976 | Average price$21,372 |
Listings4413 | Listings2055 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews9.0 out of 10 | Expert reviews7.3 out of 10 |
Pros
| Pros
|
2021 Nissan Rogue Reviews SummaryTo characterize the all-new 2021 Nissan Rogue as vital to the automaker's success is an understatement. Not only is the compact crossover SUV the best-selling Nissan in America, but it's also one of the best-selling vehicles in America. Strip out pickup trucks, and the Rogue sits near the top of the U.S. sales chart with its primary competitors, the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. Imagine the pressure on Nissan designers, engineers, and product planners as they prepared the current Rogue's replacement! The good news is that the new Rogue is a better SUV in every way but one. | |
2021 Volkswagen Tiguan Reviews SummaryYou may have noticed that crossover SUVs are popular. Among them, compact models dominate, having essentially replaced the traditional midsize sedan in American driveways. Offering room for five people, available all-wheel drive (AWD), and more cargo than any family car, they are the preferred method of transportation for a broad cross section of new vehicle buyers. But that’s not the only explanation for the runaway success of the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan. | |
No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine2.5L 181 hp I4 | Engine2.0L 184 hp I4 |
Drive TrainFWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity7 |
Horsepower181 hp @ 6000 rpm | Horsepower184 hp @ 4400 rpm |
MPG City27 | MPG City23 |
MPG Highway35 | MPG Highway29 |
Engine | |
Engine Name2.5L 181 hp I4 | Engine Name2.0L 184 hp I4 |
Torque181 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm | Torque221 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm |
Horsepower181 hp @ 6000 rpm | Horsepower184 hp @ 4400 rpm |
DrivetrainFWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City27 | MPG City23 |
MPG Highway35 | MPG Highway29 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity7 |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall3 | Front Crash Overall4 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space31.6 cu ft | Cargo Space12.0 cu ft |
Curb Weight3371 lbs | Curb Weight3735 lbs |
Height66.5 in | Height66.3 in |
Length183.0 in | Length185.1 in |
Width72.4 in | Width72.4 in |
Wheelbase106.5 in | Wheelbase109.8 in |
Maximum Payload1115 lbs | Maximum Payload1146 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | Maximum Towing Capacity1500 lbs |
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Nissan Rogue is 9.0 out of 10, while the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan scores 7.3 out of 10. Based on these assessments, the Nissan Rogue comes highly recommended for its comprehensive blend of style, performance, and cutting-edge technology, making it a superior choice for consumers seeking a versatile and well-equipped compact SUV.
Choose the 2021 Nissan Rogue if:
Shop Now- You prioritize modern styling and a robust range of trim and customization options.
- Comfort and advanced active safety features are top of your list.
- You desire a well-rounded SUV with strong performance adaptability.
Choose the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan if:
Shop Now- You prefer a classic and understated design that focuses on long-term appeal.
- Interior space, especially with optional third-row seating, is crucial for your needs.
- An emphasis on standard driving dynamics suitable for urban environments is important.
Overview | ||
MSRP | $26,050 | $25,245 |
Average price | $22,976 | $21,372 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | 4.9 | 4.8 |
Expert reviews | 9.0 out of 10Read full review | 7.3 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
| Pros
|
Summary | To characterize the all-new 2021 Nissan Rogue as vital to the automaker's success is an understatement. Not only is the compact crossover SUV the best-selling Nissan in America, but it's also one of the best-selling vehicles in America. Strip out pickup trucks, and the Rogue sits near the top of the U.S. sales chart with its primary competitors, the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. Imagine the pressure on Nissan designers, engineers, and product planners as they prepared the current Rogue's replacement! The good news is that the new Rogue is a better SUV in every way but one. | You may have noticed that crossover SUVs are popular. Among them, compact models dominate, having essentially replaced the traditional midsize sedan in American driveways. Offering room for five people, available all-wheel drive (AWD), and more cargo than any family car, they are the preferred method of transportation for a broad cross section of new vehicle buyers. But that’s not the only explanation for the runaway success of the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan. |
Video | No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 2.5L 181 hp I4 | 2.0L 184 hp I4 |
Drive Train | FWD | FWD |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 7 |
Horsepower | 181 hp @ 6000 rpm | 184 hp @ 4400 rpm |
MPG City | 27 | 23 |
MPG Highway | 35 | 29 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 2.5L 181 hp I4 | 2.0L 184 hp I4 |
Torque | 181 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm | 221 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm |
Horsepower | 181 hp @ 6000 rpm | 184 hp @ 4400 rpm |
Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 27 | 23 |
MPG Highway | 35 | 29 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 5 | 7 |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 3 | 4 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 31.6 cu ft | 12.0 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 3371 lbs | 3735 lbs |
Height | 66.5 in | 66.3 in |
Length | 183.0 in | 185.1 in |
Width | 72.4 in | 72.4 in |
Wheelbase | 106.5 in | 109.8 in |
Maximum Payload | 1115 lbs | 1146 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 1500 lbs | |
The 2021 Nissan Rogue underwent a notable transformation, decked out with an attractive, modern aesthetic fitting for its SUV status. It sported a stronger, more technical appearance compared to previous models, featuring a prominent V-Motion grille and dark gray plastic cladding that highlighted its rugged capabilities. Optional two-tone paint with a black roof option further elevated its custom look, appealing to those seeking a standout vehicle.
On the other hand, the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan offered a more understated and timeless design. Often celebrated for its clean lines and balanced proportions, the Tiguan projected a conservative yet upscale appearance which was less bold than the Rogue but likely to appeal to those preferring subtlety and elegance. The Tiguan also provided substantial interior space, nudging closer to midsize SUVs in comfort.
Both vehicles presented their own style statement: the Rogue with its audacious exterior and contemporary features, and the Tiguan with its classic design edged with a modern touch.
The 2021 Nissan Rogue was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower, paired with a continuously variable transmission optimized for a smoother automatic-like performance. Though adequate for daily commuting, its power might feel underwhelming during demanding driving conditions. Its all-wheel-drive variants and multiple driving modes like Snow and Off-Road enhanced its adventurous capabilities.
Conversely, every 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan boasted a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, achieving 184 horsepower. However, this setup brought turbo lag, which could delay acceleration responses. Equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the Tiguan also offered an optional 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, similarly priced as the Rogue’s AWD system. Though the Tiguan provided enjoyable urban driving dynamics, it did not inspire as much confidence in challenging terrains as the Rogue.
In terms of functionality, the Nissan Rogue excelled with its improved "Zero Gravity" seats which enhanced comfort across all trims, from cloth upholstery in the base model to quilted semi-aniline leather in the Platinum trim. The Rogue also boasted generous rear seating space, a flexible cargo system, and its cargo capacity varied from 31.6 to 36.5 cubic feet depending on the trim and configuration.
The Volkswagen Tiguan countered with an equally pleasant interior space, featuring perforated V-Tex leatherette that effectively mimicked real leather. The Tiguan provided notable rear-seat comfort and legroom, and its cargo capacity was versatile, ranging from 33 to 37.6 cubic feet behind the second row, affected slightly by the presence of an optional third row.
While both SUVs proposed compelling interiors, the Rogue perhaps edged out with its adjustable cargo system and slightly greater maximum cargo volume of 74.1 cubic feet compared to the Tiguan’s 73.5 cubic feet.
In technological offerings, the 2021 Nissan Rogue came loaded with features across all trims, including an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims and an upgraded 9-inch screen in higher models. Wireless Apple CarPlay, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and NissanConnect services enriched its connectivity options.
The Volkswagen Tiguan wasn’t far behind with its updated MIB3 infotainment system starting from the SE trim, which included an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone connectivity, and various Car-Net services. However, some quirks in its user interface and the standard audio quality in lower trims could detract from the experience.
Safety wise, both vehicles were well-equipped. The Nissan Rogue offered the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite as standard, introducing comprehensive assistance features such as automatic emergency braking and blind-spot warning. The Rogue’s ProPilot Assist provided enhanced adaptive cruise control, especially in higher trims.
The Volkswagen Tiguan was equipped with IQ Drive from the SE trim up, featuring forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and other vital assistance tools. As tested, it provided a strong but sometimes over-reactive response to environmental obstacles.
By: CarGurus + AI
At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.