28 MPG combined isn’t going to set any records, but it’s perfectly acceptable for the 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport. This small crossover fills a need: buyers who want a higher-riding, cargo-flexible alternative to a sedan without the bulk and thirst of a larger SUV. Fuel efficiency is one factor, but it’s balanced against practicality and affordability. The Rogue Sport delivers, making its MPG a trade-off many consumers are happy to make.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport 2.0L achieves 26 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. The city figure is arguably more relevant for the Rogue Sport’s target demographic. This isn’t a long-haul road trip machine; it’s a suburban workhorse, tasked with school runs, grocery shopping, and navigating congested streets. The 26 MPG reflects that reality.

On the open road, the 31 MPG is respectable, although there are more efficient highway cruisers available. The continuously variable transmission (CVT), Nissan calls it AV-S8, is tuned for efficiency, prioritizing lower engine speeds to save fuel, sometimes at the expensive of immediate responsiveness.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport 2.0L is $1,550. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a useful benchmark for comparing the Rogue Sport to other vehicles in its class. Of course, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, location, and the prevailing price of gasoline. But the $1,550 figure provides a standardized way to assess the Rogue Sport’s running costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures offer a starting point, real-world fuel economy often differs. Many Rogue Sport owners report achieving figures close to the EPA estimates in mixed driving. However, aggressive acceleration and frequent short trips can significantly reduce fuel economy.

Careful driving and predominantly highway miles can yield results exceeding 31 MPG. Factors like tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even weather conditions can also influence fuel consumption.

How it compares

The Rogue Sport exists in a crowded segment, and understanding its fuel economy relative to competitors is critical. The Honda HR-V, for instance, achieves up to 34 MPG on the highway with its front-wheel-drive variant, making it a slightly more efficient choice for those prioritizing long-distance economy. The Mazda CX-30, with its more powerful engine, delivers around 25 MPG combined. You can compare the Rogue Sport to all Nissan fuel economy data.

The Subaru Crosstrek, another popular option, offers around 29 MPG combined, with the plug-in hybrid variant offering even better efficiency. These differences, while seemingly small, can add up over time, influencing the overall cost of ownership. Buyers often cross-shop the Rogue Sport against the larger ROGUE MPG across all years, which achieves similar MPG while offering considerably more interior space.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The Rogue Sport’s 2.0L engine doesn’t reward heavy-footed driving. Gradual acceleration from a stop saves fuel and reduces wear and tear on the drivetrain.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level found on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize idling time. Letting the engine idle for extended periods consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute, turn off the engine.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed on the open road helps optimize fuel efficiency. Cruise control minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, leading to smoother and more economical driving.

Service your Rogue Sport on time. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements, ensures the engine operates efficiently. A well-maintained engine burns fuel more completely, resulting in better MPG.