2020 Nissan Rogue Sport SL: Review, Specs & Features

Let's dive into the 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport SL SUV, guys! If you're in the market for a compact SUV that blends practicality with a touch of luxury, this could be the ride for you. We’re going to break down everything you need to know, from its performance and features to its overall value. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Exterior Design and Features

When it comes to the exterior, the 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport SL certainly has a distinctive look. The Rogue Sport SL boasts sleek lines and a modern aesthetic that makes it stand out in the crowded compact SUV market. One of the most noticeable features is the signature V-Motion grille, which gives it a bold and recognizable face. The SL trim adds some extra flair with its chrome door handles and integrated turn signal indicators in the side mirrors, enhancing its premium feel. The body-color rear spoiler adds a sporty touch, complementing the overall design. Speaking of lights, the LED daytime running lights and headlights not only look sharp but also provide enhanced visibility, making nighttime driving safer. And let's not forget the 19-inch alloy wheels, which are exclusive to the SL trim. These larger wheels not only improve the vehicle's stance but also contribute to a smoother and more comfortable ride. Practicality is also key, with roof rails that allow you to easily mount cargo carriers or bike racks for those weekend adventures. The power-adjustable and heated outside mirrors are a godsend during colder months, ensuring clear visibility no matter the weather. Overall, the exterior design of the 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport SL strikes a balance between stylish and functional, making it an appealing choice for those who want a compact SUV with a bit of panache.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport SL, you'll immediately notice the emphasis on comfort and technology. The SL trim offers leather-appointed seats that provide a premium feel and added comfort, especially on long drives. The driver's seat is power-adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect driving position with ease, while the heated front seats are a welcome feature on chilly mornings. The interior design is both modern and functional, with user-friendly controls and a well-organized layout. The infotainment system is anchored by a 7-inch touchscreen display, which is responsive and easy to navigate. It comes equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone for access to music, navigation, and other apps. The Bose premium audio system delivers crisp and clear sound, enhancing your overall driving experience. Other notable tech features include a rearview monitor, which provides added safety and convenience when backing up, and a NissanConnect system, which offers various connected services such as remote start and vehicle health reports. Dual-zone automatic climate control ensures that both the driver and passengers can set their preferred temperature, adding to the overall comfort. The interior also offers ample storage space, including a center console with a storage bin, door pockets, and a glove compartment. With its combination of luxurious features and advanced technology, the 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport SL provides a comfortable and connected driving experience.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport SL is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers adequate performance for daily driving. While it's not going to win any races, the engine provides enough power for city commutes and highway cruising. It produces around 141 horsepower and 147 lb-ft of torque, which is sufficient for most drivers. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which prioritizes fuel efficiency. While some drivers may find the CVT a bit uninspiring, it does a good job of keeping the engine in its optimal power range. The Rogue Sport SL comes standard with front-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive is available as an option for those who need extra traction in inclement weather. The handling is decent, with a comfortable ride quality that makes it suitable for long trips. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. However, the Rogue Sport SL is not particularly sporty, and it's not designed for aggressive driving. Instead, it focuses on providing a smooth and comfortable ride for everyday use. Fuel economy is a strong point, with the Rogue Sport SL achieving around 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. This makes it an economical choice for those who want a compact SUV that won't break the bank at the gas pump. Overall, the 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport SL offers a balanced performance that is well-suited for daily driving.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety, the 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport SL is well-equipped with a range of advanced features designed to protect you and your passengers. Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, which can help prevent or mitigate collisions. Lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane, while blind-spot monitoring warns you of vehicles in your blind spots. Rear cross-traffic alert is another useful feature that helps you back out of parking spaces safely by alerting you to approaching vehicles. The Rogue Sport SL also comes with a rearview camera, which provides a clear view of what's behind you when backing up. In addition to these advanced features, the Rogue Sport SL also has a comprehensive suite of standard safety equipment, including anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a full complement of airbags. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) have both given the Rogue Sport SL good safety ratings, indicating that it performs well in crash tests. Overall, the 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport SL offers a high level of safety, making it a smart choice for families and anyone who prioritizes safety on the road. These features combine to give drivers peace of mind, knowing they are protected by some of the latest safety technology available.

Trim Levels and Options

The 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport comes in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and options. The base S trim is well-equipped with standard features such as a 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and automatic emergency braking. The SV trim adds features such as alloy wheels, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and blind-spot monitoring. The SL trim, which is the focus of this review, offers the most luxurious features, including leather-appointed seats, a Bose premium audio system, and 19-inch alloy wheels. In terms of options, you can add all-wheel drive to any trim level for improved traction in inclement weather. Other available options include a panoramic sunroof, a surround-view camera system, and adaptive cruise control. Adaptive cruise control is particularly useful for highway driving, as it automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. The panoramic sunroof adds an open and airy feel to the cabin, while the surround-view camera system provides a 360-degree view of your surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier. When choosing a trim level and options, it's important to consider your budget and your priorities. The base S trim offers excellent value for money, while the SL trim provides the most luxurious features. All-wheel drive is a good option if you live in an area with snow or rain, while the panoramic sunroof and surround-view camera system are nice-to-have features that can enhance your driving experience.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

For many car buyers, fuel economy is a crucial factor, and the 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport SL doesn't disappoint. The Rogue Sport SL achieves an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, making it a fuel-efficient choice in the compact SUV segment. These numbers are for the front-wheel-drive model; the all-wheel-drive version has slightly lower ratings. Several factors contribute to the Rogue Sport SL's impressive fuel economy. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is designed to be efficient, and the continuously variable transmission (CVT) helps to keep the engine in its optimal power range. Additionally, the Rogue Sport SL has a lightweight design, which also contributes to its fuel efficiency. To maximize your fuel economy, there are a few things you can do. First, avoid aggressive driving habits such as rapid acceleration and hard braking. Second, make sure your tires are properly inflated, as underinflated tires can reduce fuel economy. Third, remove any unnecessary items from your vehicle, as extra weight can also reduce fuel economy. Overall, the 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport SL offers excellent fuel economy, making it an economical choice for those who want a compact SUV that won't break the bank at the gas pump. Whether you're commuting to work or taking a road trip, you can count on the Rogue Sport SL to deliver impressive fuel efficiency.

Pricing and Value

When considering the 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport SL, pricing and overall value are important factors. The Rogue Sport SL typically has a starting price in the mid-to-high $20,000s, depending on the options and packages you choose. Compared to other compact SUVs in its class, the Rogue Sport SL offers competitive pricing, especially when you consider the level of features and equipment you get. The SL trim, in particular, offers a lot of value, with its leather-appointed seats, Bose premium audio system, and 19-inch alloy wheels. In addition to the purchase price, it's also important to consider the long-term costs of ownership, such as fuel, maintenance, and insurance. As mentioned earlier, the Rogue Sport SL offers excellent fuel economy, which can save you money at the gas pump. Maintenance costs are also relatively low, as Nissan vehicles are known for their reliability. Insurance costs will vary depending on your driving record and location, but the Rogue Sport SL is generally affordable to insure. When evaluating the overall value of the 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport SL, it's important to consider your individual needs and priorities. If you're looking for a compact SUV with a lot of features and a comfortable ride, the Rogue Sport SL is an excellent choice. However, if you need a lot of cargo space or rear-seat legroom, you may want to consider other options. Overall, the 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport SL offers a good balance of price, features, and performance, making it a compelling choice in the compact SUV segment.

Conclusion

Wrapping things up, the 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport SL SUV is a solid choice if you’re looking for a compact SUV that combines style, comfort, and technology. It's got a sleek exterior, a comfortable and well-equipped interior, and a range of safety features that make it a great option for families and daily commuters alike. While it might not be the sportiest SUV on the market, it offers a smooth and efficient ride, making it perfect for navigating city streets and cruising on the highway. Plus, with its competitive pricing and good fuel economy, it offers excellent value for money. So, if you're in the market for a compact SUV, be sure to give the 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport SL a look. You might just find that it's the perfect fit for your needs. Happy driving, folks!