2025 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Toyota Rav 4
Reliability Side-by-Side
2025
Nissan Rogue
Grade B
A comfortable and efficient compact SUV, but the critical CVT component requires diligent long-term monitoring and maintenance.
2021
Nissan Rogue
Grade B+
A modern and comfortable crossover with good initial reliability, but pay close attention to the CVT's health and ensure all tech works flawlessly.
Best For
Best for Reliability
2021 Nissan Rogue
Score 85/100 vs 83/100
Best for Lowest Risk
2021 Nissan Rogue
low risk
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Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2025 Nissan Rogue | 2021 Nissan Rogue★ | 2021 Toyota Rav 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | $450-650 | $450-650 | — |
| Moderate Repairs | $600-1,800 occasionally | $600-1,800 occasionally (e.g., control arms, electrical module) | — |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 30 / 37 | 27 / 35 | 27 / 35 |
| MSRP (New) | $28,850 | $25,850 | $26,050 |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
Biggest Risks on Each
2025 Nissan Rogue
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
80,000-150,000 mi
1.5L VC-Turbo Engine
90,000-160,000 mi
Infotainment & Electrical
5,000-40,000 mi
2021 Nissan Rogue
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
60,000-100,000 mi
Infotainment & Electrical
15,000-45,000 mi
Fuel System Components
0-30,000 (pre-recall fix) mi
2021 Toyota Rav 4
Engine & drivetrain
Electronics & infotainment
Wear items (brakes, suspension)
Specific failure patterns, mileages, and repair costs unlock with the full reliability report.
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7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair costs, and expert verdict for each vehicle.
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Editorial Take
The compact SUV segment is fiercely competitive, and these three vehicles represent different approaches and value propositions within it. The 2025 Nissan Rogue is the latest iteration, offering updated styling and technology, building on the platform of the 2021 model. The 2021 Nissan Rogue itself was a significant redesign, aiming for a more premium feel. The 2021 Toyota RAV4, a long-standing segment leader, is included as a benchmark for reliability, resale value, and overall competence. Buyers considering these models typically prioritize practicality, fuel efficiency, safety, and a comfortable ride. Key decision factors often boil down to budget, desire for the latest features, and long-term ownership costs and dependability. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
2025 Nissan Rogue As a new model, the 2025 Rogue's long-term reliability is yet to be fully established. However, it carries over the 1.5-liter VC-Turbo engine and platform from the 2022-2024 models, which have generally shown good performance. Potential, albeit minor, issues might include initial software glitches with updated infotainment systems or potential long-term concerns regarding the complexity of the VC-Turbo engine or the durability of the CVT (a historical concern for Nissan, though modern CVTs are significantly more robust). 2021 Nissan Rogue CVT Issues: While largely improved, some owners have reported instances of the Continuously Variable Transmission exhibiting hesitation, shuddering at low speeds, or a droning noise during acceleration. While not widespread failures, these symptoms can occur, sometimes requiring software updates or fluid service, typically at mileages between 30,000 and 60,000 miles. Infotainment System Glitches: Early production models sometimes experienced infotainment system freezes, slow response times, or occasional connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, often resolved with software updates. Premature Brake Wear: Some owners have noted that brake pads and rotors may wear out quicker than expected, especially on the front axle, sometimes requiring replacement before 40,000 miles. 2021 Toyota RAV4 8-Speed Automatic Transmission Shifting: The 8-speed automatic transmission in the gas model has received some reports of rough or hesitant shifting, particularly at lower speeds or when the vehicle is cold. While often considered characteristic of the transmission and not a defect, it can be a minor annoyance for some owners. Minor Interior Rattles/Wind Noise: A small percentage of owners have reported minor interior rattles (e.g., from dashboard or door panels) or noticeable wind noise at highway speeds, although this varies widely by individual vehicle. 12V Battery Drain (Hybrid models): While not exclusive to 2021, some RAV4 Hybrid owners have reported issues with the 12V auxiliary battery draining prematurely, especially if the vehicle sits for extended periods, sometimes due to infotainment system draws.
Value & Cost of Ownership
When new, the 2021 Rogue and RAV4 were priced very similarly, starting around $26,000. The 2025 Rogue, with its updates and inflation, will command a starting MSRP closer to $29,000. In the used market, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 generally holds its value significantly better than the 2021 Nissan Rogue. A 2021 Rogue with 40,000-60,000 miles might typically range from $18,000 to $25,000 depending on trim and condition. A comparable 2021 RAV4 would likely command $23,000 to $30,000 or more, reflecting its stronger resale value and reputation for reliability. Insurance costs for all three are generally competitive within the compact SUV segment, often depending more on the specific trim, driver's history, and location. However, the RAV4, especially hybrid models, sometimes faces slightly higher premiums due to higher theft rates in some areas. Maintenance costs for Toyota vehicles are historically among the lowest in the industry, benefiting from readily available parts and robust engineering. Nissan's maintenance costs are also reasonable, but the potential for CVT issues, though rare, could lead to higher repair costs if it does arise. Both vehicles are relatively inexpensive to maintain for routine service. Resale value is where the Toyota RAV4 truly shines, consistently being one of the best performers in its class. The Nissan Rogue, while improved, typically depreciates more quickly than the RAV4.
Editorial Verdict
Best for families: The 2021 and 2025 Nissan Rogue. Both offer excellent cargo space with the clever Divide-N-Hide system, comfortable seating, and comprehensive safety suites (Nissan Safety Shield 360). The 2025 model adds larger screens and potentially wireless connectivity for better kid-entertainment options. The slightly softer ride of the Rogue models may also be preferred for family comfort. Best for commuters: The 2025 Nissan Rogue. Its 1.5-liter VC-Turbo engine delivers excellent fuel economy (up to 33 combined MPG) and more confident passing power, making highway commutes smoother. The updated interior and larger screens in the 2025 model also contribute to a more pleasant daily drive. The 2021 RAV4 Hybrid is a strong alternative here for its exceptional 39 combined MPG, if budget allows for a slightly higher purchase price. Best for enthusiasts: The 2021 Toyota RAV4. While none of these are true enthusiast vehicles, the RAV4 offers a slightly more engaging driving dynamic with its traditional 8-speed automatic transmission, quicker acceleration (especially the Hybrid), and generally firmer, more controlled handling compared to the Rogue's comfort-oriented setup. Best value overall: The 2021 Toyota RAV4. While its initial used purchase price is higher than the 2021 Rogue, its superior long-term reliability reputation, lower maintenance costs, and significantly stronger resale value typically result in a lower total cost of ownership over several years. For new car buyers, the 2025 Nissan Rogue offers a very compelling package of features, performance, and fuel economy for its expected price.
Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles
Products for 2025 Nissan Rogue
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