Nissan's smallest crossover receives a styling update for 2021 which includes a larger grille, streamlined headlamps and taillamps, redesigned front and rear bumpers, and a new 17-inch aluminum wheel design. Nissan has also expanded the availability of the contrasting black roof option to cars painted in Scarlet Ember Tintcoat, Boulder Gray Pearl, and Electric Blue Metallic. Inside, SV and SR models now come with a new 8.0-inch infotainment system, and all Kicks trims now feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.A Wi-Fi hotspot is now available as an option on the top spec SR trim.
PROS Peppy around town, spacious cabin, generous standard equipment.
CONS Anemic at highway speeds, engine sounds thrashy at high revs, a few more storage cubbies wouldn't hurt.
The 2021 Nissan Kicks's #5 ranking is based on its score within the Subcompact SUVs category. Currently the Nissan Kicks has a score of 7.7 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 32 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
PROS Plenty of standard features Good cargo space for the class Excellent fuel economy
CONS Lackluster highway acceleration All-wheel drive not offered Worst predicted reliability score in the class
For 2021 Restyled exterior, Mild upgrades to cabin materials, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration now standard.
PROS Comes standard with lots of advanced driver aids Affordably priced High fuel economy Easy-to-use controls
CONS Leisurely acceleration Uncomfortable seats Not much rear legroom No optional all-wheel drive
The 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport's #11 ranking is based on its score within the Subcompact SUVs category. Currently the Nissan Rogue Sport has a score of 7.1 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 28 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Ample cargo room Numerous standard driver assistance features
Cons High base price for class Weak and unrefined powertrain Tight second-row legroom Mixed interior quality
This year is expected to the be the last before a major redesign for the Rogue Sport, so Nissan has made only slight adjustments to the lineup for 2021. The base S trim gains standard 17-inch aluminum wheels while the mid-range SV receives heated front seats, a remote start system, a heated steering wheel, fog lamps, and a leather-wrapped shift knob.
Pros Compliant ride, spacious cabin, fuel efficient engine.
Cons Poky acceleration, low-tech infotainment system, lacks towing capacity.
For 2021 Base S trim comes with 17-inch wheels, Heated front seats and steering wheel, foglights and more now standard on SV.
Pros Cargo space is impressive for the class Small size means good maneuverability in tight city spaces Lots of available driving aids and tech
Cons Engine is underpowered and noisy Bumpy ride when equipped with optional 19-inch wheels Front seats aren't comfortable on long trips
