Why Can’t we Have the New Nissan Rogue Sport in America?
The Nissan Rogue Sport currently doesn’t have the best reputation, but changes are coming its way. The 2022 Nissan Rogue Sport will be totally redesigned with e-Power to join the hybrid ranks. But we might not get it in America.
The Nissan Rogue Sport with e-Power is coming
Prototypes for the 2022 Nissan Rogue Sport are currently being tested ahead of schedule for a market launch in 2021. So, that’s pretty exciting. At least we can safely expect this fresh SUV to arrive without delays for now, at least.
The redesign follows in the footsteps of the larger Nissan Rogue. So, remember, the Sport isn’t a trim level, it’s a different model. This is similar to how the Ford Bronco Sport is the baby version of the Ford Bronco.
But wait, what’s e-Power?
According to Motor Authority, an e-Power vehicle is basically an electric car with a battery that is charged on the go. They’re powered by energy regeneration and a small internal-combustion engine that serves as a generator. The electricity that’s generated by the engine can directly power the vehicle’s electric motors during high-load situations too.
This technology isn’t exactly new. The concept is found in extended-range EVs too. However, the batteries in the Karma Revero and BMW 13 REx are much larger than batteries found in e-Power Nissans.
Because Nissan e-Power vehicles have smaller batteries, they don’t have a plug. You still have to fill up at a conventional gas station with them. But, on the positive side, the smaller batteries make these vehicles more affordable.
What do we know about the Nissan Rogue Sport e-Power?
Not much information about the Nissan Rogue Sport has been revealed. Nissan said that the Qashqai will be offered with e-Power series hybrid technology.
The Nissan Qashqai is the version of the Rogue Sport that’s sold in other countries like Japan and in European markets. The Rogue Sport is the same as the Qashqai, just with different badging.
So if this technology is for other markets, will it come to America? Maybe. The Nissan Versa Note, known as the Nissan Note in other countries, was discontinued in 2019 due to declining sales of subcompact hatchback vehicles in the United States. Before we even had a chance to see the Nissan Note e-Power hybrid, it was gone.
The 2019 Rogue Hybrid was a thing, too. However, it was also discontinued due to a lack of sales in America. So, unless Nissan sees a need or growing trend for smaller hybrid vehicles, the chances of us seeing e-Power SUVs over here seem grim.
But we at least get the gas-powered version of the Rogue Sport. The 2022 Nissan Rogue Sport is expected to have updated infotainment features and the latest electronic driver-assistance features. These are badly needed in this ancient vehicle.
If it follows in the footsteps of the larger Nissan Rogue, it will have a better ride quality, improved interior comfort, and possibly a little more power. Currently, it’s unclear about which powertrains will be available in Rogue Sport.