2021 Nissan Rogue Steering Wheel Buttons

The 2021 Nissan Rogue marked a significant step up for Nissan's popular compact SUV. Beyond the refreshed exterior and revamped interior, one of the most frequently interacted-with elements – the steering wheel – saw a considerable upgrade. But not all Rogue steering wheels are created equal. Let's dive into the nitty-gritty differences in steering wheel button layouts and functionalities across the 2021 Rogue lineup, covering trims like the S, SV, and SL, and even touching upon how ProPILOT Assist impacts the controls.

Steering Wheel Button Layout: A Trim-by-Trim Breakdown

While the overall steering wheel design remained consistent across the 2021 Rogue range, the button layout and functionality varied, especially with the inclusion of Nissan's ProPILOT Assist system on higher trims.

Base Model (S): The Essentials

The Rogue S offers a functional but basic steering wheel. Expect the essentials here:

• Left Side: Audio controls (volume, track skip, mute), voice command activation.
• Right Side: Cruise control (standard, non-adaptive), menu navigation for the driver information display in the instrument cluster.
• Bottom Spoke: Phone controls (answer/hang up).

Stepping Up: SV and SL – The ProPILOT Assist Factor

The SV and SL trims introduced ProPILOT Assist, bringing a significant change to the right-hand side of the steering wheel. Here's a breakdown:

• Left Side: Remains largely the same as the S trim – audio controls and voice command.
• Right Side: This is where the magic happens. The standard cruise control buttons are replaced with controls for ProPILOT Assist, including:
  • Set/Cancel: Activates and deactivates the system.
  • Following Distance: Adjusts the distance between your Rogue and the vehicle in front.
  • Lane Keep Assist: Engages or disengages lane centering.
• Bottom Spoke: Phone controls (answer/hang up) – remains consistent.

The key difference is the replacement of standard cruise control with the more advanced ProPILOT Assist functions. This makes the driving experience on highways and in stop-and-go traffic significantly different on SV and SL trims compared to the base S model.

Spec Table: 2021 Nissan Rogue Steering Wheel Button Comparison

Real-World Driving Impressions: The Steering Wheel in Action

Spending time behind the wheel of each Rogue trim highlights the practical differences these button layouts make. Here are some key takeaways from my experience:

Rogue S: Simple and Functional

The base model's steering wheel is straightforward. The buttons are well-placed and easy to use, even with gloves on. The lack of ProPILOT Assist isn't a huge drawback for those who primarily drive in the city or on shorter commutes. The standard cruise control works as expected. However, the absence of adaptive cruise control can be noticeable on longer highway journeys.

Rogue SV and SL: ProPILOT Assist – A Game Changer?

The SV and SL trims transform the driving experience. ProPILOT Assist is a welcome addition on long drives, especially in traffic. The buttons are intuitive, and it quickly becomes second nature to adjust the following distance and engage lane keep assist. The system works well, though it's important to remember it's not a self-driving system. Driver attention is still required. The steering feel itself isn't dramatically affected, but the reduced workload from ProPILOT Assist allows you to focus more on the overall driving environment.

Pros of ProPILOT Assist Integration:

• Reduced driver fatigue on long trips.
• Adaptive cruise control is smoother and more responsive than standard cruise.
• Lane keep assist helps maintain lane position, especially in windy conditions.

Cons of ProPILOT Assist Integration:

• Requires clear lane markings to function effectively.
• Can be overly cautious in certain situations.
• Adds complexity to the steering wheel controls.

Ergonomics and Feel

Regardless of trim, the 2021 Rogue steering wheel is generally well-designed from an ergonomic standpoint. The buttons are logically placed and require a reasonable amount of pressure to activate, preventing accidental presses. The steering wheel itself is a comfortable size and thickness, making it easy to grip for extended periods. Leather wrapping is standard on the SL trim, adding a touch of luxury compared to the urethane steering wheels on the S and SV.

Aftermarket Options and Customization

While there aren't many readily available aftermarket options to significantly alter the steering wheel button layout, some owners explore modifying the existing controls or adding custom button panels for specific functions. However, these modifications can be complex and may void warranties, so proceed with caution.

One common modification involves swapping the urethane steering wheel on the S and SV trims for a leather-wrapped wheel from the SL trim or an aftermarket option. This improves the tactile feel and adds a touch of premiumness to the interior.

Conclusion: Steering Wheel Buttons – Small Details, Big Impact

The steering wheel button differences between the 2021 Nissan Rogue trims might seem minor at first glance, but they significantly impact the driving experience. ProPILOT Assist is a valuable feature that elevates the SV and SL models above the base S in terms of convenience and driver assistance. When choosing your Rogue, consider how much time you spend on the highway and whether the benefits of ProPILOT Assist justify the price jump. A simple element like steering wheel buttons becomes a crucial factor in selecting the perfect Rogue for your needs.

Fun Fact: Some Rogue owners prefer the simpler standard cruise control on the S trim, arguing that ProPILOT Assist is overly intrusive. Others swear by the technology and wouldn't drive without it. Which camp are you in?