2021 Nissan Rogue Cargo Space

The 2021 Nissan Rogue represents a significant redesign for the popular compact SUV. While its exterior styling and interior features often garner attention, one of the most practical aspects of any SUV is its cargo space. Understanding the cargo capacity of the 2021 Rogue is crucial for potential buyers who need to transport groceries, luggage, sports equipment, or anything in between. This article provides a comprehensive look at the 2021 Nissan Rogue's cargo area, dimensions, features, and how it compares to its competitors.

2021 Nissan Rogue Cargo Space: A Detailed Overview

The 2021 Nissan Rogue offers a competitive amount of cargo space in its class. The exact figures vary slightly depending on the trim level and whether the vehicle is equipped with the Divide-N-Hide cargo system. However, generally speaking, here's what you can expect:

Behind the Rear Seats: Approximately 36.5 to 39.3 cubic feet. This is the space available with the rear seats in their upright position, ready to accommodate passengers. The variation depends on the trim and the positioning of the rear seats.
With Rear Seats Folded Down: Approximately 74.1 cubic feet. Folding the rear seats down significantly expands the cargo area, allowing for larger items to be transported. This figure is consistent across most trims.

It's important to note that these figures are official measurements from Nissan. Real-world usability can sometimes differ slightly depending on how the space is packed and the shape of the items being transported. Nevertheless, these numbers provide a solid baseline for comparison.

Understanding the Divide-N-Hide Cargo System

One of the key features impacting the 2021 Rogue's cargo versatility is the optional Divide-N-Hide cargo system. This system allows for multiple configurations of the cargo area, adding to its functionality. It typically includes:

Adjustable Cargo Floor: The floor of the cargo area can be raised or lowered to create different levels. This can be useful for separating items or creating a flat loading surface when the rear seats are folded down.
Cargo Dividers: These dividers can be used to create separate compartments within the cargo area, preventing items from rolling around or shifting during transport.

While the Divide-N-Hide system might slightly reduce the maximum cargo volume compared to models without it (specifically when the floor is in the lower position), the added versatility often outweighs this minor difference for many buyers. It's a valuable feature for those who frequently transport different types of cargo.

Accessing and Loading the Cargo Area

The 2021 Rogue offers several features to make accessing and loading the cargo area easier:

Available Motion-Activated Liftgate: On higher trim levels, the Rogue features a motion-activated liftgate. This allows you to open the liftgate hands-free by simply waving your foot under the rear bumper, which is incredibly convenient when your hands are full.
Wide Rear Opening: The Rogue's rear opening is designed to be wide and accommodating, making it easier to load bulky items.
Low Loading Height: The relatively low loading height of the Rogue makes it easier to lift heavy items into the cargo area, reducing strain and effort.

These features, combined with the spacious cargo area, make the 2021 Rogue a practical choice for families and individuals who need to transport cargo regularly.

Comparing the 2021 Nissan Rogue Cargo Space to Competitors

To fully appreciate the 2021 Rogue's cargo capacity, it's helpful to compare it to some of its main competitors in the compact SUV segment. Here's a look at how it stacks up:

Toyota RAV4: The RAV4 is a popular competitor known for its reliability and practicality. It offers comparable cargo space to the Rogue, with approximately 37.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
Honda CR-V: The CR-V is another strong contender, often praised for its spacious interior. It offers slightly more cargo space than the Rogue, with around 39.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 75.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
Hyundai Tucson: The Tucson has been redesigned recently and offers a compelling blend of style and features. It provides a cargo area that is very competitive with the Rogue.
Mazda CX-5: The CX-5 is known for its sporty driving dynamics and upscale interior. However, it typically offers slightly less cargo space than the Rogue, prioritizing style and handling over outright cargo capacity.

As you can see, the 2021 Nissan Rogue falls squarely in the middle of the pack when it comes to cargo space compared to its competitors. While some models offer slightly more space, the Rogue's versatile Divide-N-Hide system and convenient loading features help to make the most of its available cargo area.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Compact SUV

While cargo space is undoubtedly important, it's just one factor to consider when choosing a compact SUV. Other key considerations include:

Fuel Efficiency: How fuel-efficient is the vehicle? This will impact your long-term running costs.
Safety Features: Does the vehicle have a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring?
Technology Features: What technology features are included, such as a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto?
Ride Quality and Handling: How comfortable is the ride, and how does the vehicle handle on the road?
Price and Value: Does the vehicle offer good value for money, considering its features and performance?
Reliability and Maintenance: What is the vehicle's track record for reliability, and how expensive is it to maintain?

It's essential to weigh all of these factors carefully to determine which compact SUV best meets your individual needs and preferences. The 2021 Nissan Rogue offers a compelling blend of cargo space, features, and value, making it a strong contender in this competitive segment.

Maximizing Your 2021 Nissan Rogue Cargo Space

Here are a few tips to help you maximize the cargo space in your 2021 Nissan Rogue:

Utilize the Divide-N-Hide System: Experiment with the different configurations of the Divide-N-Hide system to find the best setup for your needs.
Fold Down the Rear Seats: When you need to transport larger items, don't hesitate to fold down the rear seats. Remember to secure any loose items to prevent them from sliding forward.
Use Cargo Organizers: Invest in cargo organizers, such as bins, bags, or nets, to keep your items neatly organized and prevent them from rolling around.
Pack Strategically: Place heavier items on the bottom and lighter items on top. Try to distribute the weight evenly to maintain balance.
Consider a Roof Rack: If you frequently need to transport bulky items that won't fit inside the cargo area, consider installing a roof rack.

By following these tips, you can make the most of the 2021 Nissan Rogue's cargo capacity and ensure that you have enough space for all your belongings.

Conclusion

The 2021 Nissan Rogue offers a respectable amount of cargo space for a compact SUV. While it may not be the absolute leader in its class, its versatile Divide-N-Hide system, convenient loading features, and overall practicality make it a compelling choice for buyers who prioritize cargo capacity. When considering a compact SUV, it’s important to compare cargo dimensions but also to consider the vehicle's features, safety rating, and overall value. The redesigned Rogue offers a good balance of these attributes and is well worth considering when shopping for your next SUV. Do your research, test drive the vehicle, and carefully consider your specific needs to make the best decision for you and your family. The 2021 Nissan Rogue delivers a practical and stylish package suitable for a wide range of lifestyles.