2020 Nissan Rogue Sport SV AWD Test Drive
“Nissan Rogue Sport SV AWD”
Revamped Styling in a Sensible Package
OVERVIEW
The 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport is a subcompact four-door, five-passenger crossover that falls into Nissan’s SUV lineup between their smaller Kicks and larger Rogue sibling. It fills the bill for consumers who don’t want or need an SUV that is larger, or even humongous Armada. The Rogue Sport is available in three levels of trim: S, SV and SL. All come standard in a Font-Wheel Drive configuration, with All-Wheel Drive available as an extra cost option. The “Sport” moniker is a reference to its size rather than its performance acumen.
PROPULSION
Power for all 2020 Rogue Sports regardless of trim level is supplied by a transversely front-mounted 2.0-liter, DOHC, 16-valve inline four-cylinder engine with GDI and ECO mode that delivers 141 horsepower at 6,000 rpm while developing 147 pound feet of torque at 4,400 rpm. Energy reaches the driving wheels via Nissan’s Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that features a manual shift mode and Overdrive.
REVISED STYLING
Nissan has elevated the styling of the 2020 Rogue Sport with a sleek new design fore and aft. LED daytime running lamps, and a restyled grille and hood contribute to a more appealing edgy or chiseled look. Two new colors have been added to the Rogue Sport’s palette: Nitro Lime Metallic and Monarch Orange Metallic. The Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite of driver-assistance technologies is now a standard feature on all trim levels. Nissan also offers a new 19-inch wheel design inspired by its luxury cousin, the Infiniti QX50.
AS TESTED
My test Rogue Sport was provided in the mid-level SV trim with the AWD option. The exterior was sprayed Scarlet Ember metallic, with the interior done in Charcoal tones. The base MSRP read $26,100., while the addition of the premium paint, floor mats with cargo area protector, Technology Package and destination charges bumped the final count and amount to $30,460.
COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE
The Rogue Sport is loaded with an impressive list of features that add to its physical appeal in terms of practicality and versatility. An 8-way power driver’s seat with 2-way lumbar, 60/40 split fold down rear seats, adjustable tilt and telescoping steering column, intelligent key with push button ignition, a rear sonar system, rear view monitor, Hill Start Assist, Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control are but a few features that make driving more pleasurable.
Connectivity and infotainment bases are covered by Nissan Connect, SiriusXM radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a 7-inch color display with multi-touch control and hands free text messaging assistant and more.
Safety and security are enhanced by ABS, VDC, EBD, BA, AEB, RAB, RCTA, LDW, I-LI, HBA and I-FCW. A quiz will follow.
PERFORMANCE
What the 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport lacks in acceleration is made up for in operational efficiency and fuel economy. Launch off the line is less than exhilarating, buy then speed is not the Rogue Sport’s mission statement. Its ride quality is smooth, comfortable and refined, and once up to speed, the acceleration is substantial. Handling characteristics are nimble and responsive with a positive steering feel.
The CVT provides predetermined shift points that make it feel more like a conventional automatic gearbox. The Rogue is not tow rated.
THE FINAL VERDICT
The 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport SV AWD is not a hot rod, but is rather a “right-sized” crossover that is both attractive and capable. The interior is spacious and provides ample room for both passengers and cargo. The Rogue Sport’s elevated seating delivers an excellent forward view of the road.
Warranty and maintenance coverage is on par with most competitors: A Limited warranty covers 3 years or 36,000 miles; the Powertrain warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles. No complimentary scheduled maintenance is offered.
SPECIFICATIONS; 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport SV AWD
Base Price: $26,100.
Price as Tested: $30,460.
Engine Type and Size: 2.0-liter, DOHC, 16-valve inline four-cylinder with GDI and ECO mode.
Horsepower (bhp): 141 @ 6,000 rpm
Torque (ft./ lbs.): 147 @ 4,400 rpm
Transmission: XTRONIC CVT automatic with manual shift mode and OD.
Drive Train: Transversely mounted front engine/ AWD .
Suspension: Front -Strut type with coil springs, gas-pressurized shocks and anti-roll bar.
Rear – Multi-link with coil springs, , gas-pressurized shocks and anti-roll bar.
Brakes: Power assisted four wheel vented discs with ABS, BA, ESC, Hill Hold and brake actuated Limited slip differential.
Tires: Falken Sincera 215/60 R17 mounted on 5-“V”-spoke silver painted alloy wheels.
Wheelbase: 104.2 inches
Length Overall: 172.4 inches
Width: 72.3 inches – W/O mirrors
Height: 63.4 inches
Curb Weight: 3,296 lbs.
Turning Circle: 36.9 ft.
Fuel Capacity: 14.5 gallons
EPA Mileage Estimates: 27 mpg city /30- mpg highway
Drag Coefficient: Not listed.
0 – 60 mph: Not tested.
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