Overview & Reviews

Like many of the two dozen or so compact crossovers on the market today, the Nissan Rogue seeks to provide the all-weather capability and commanding driving position of an SUV, along with the maneuverability and fuel efficiency of a typical car. It does this quite well, and it also adds bold, son-of-Murano styling to make it desirable for its form as well as its function.

Although the Nissan Rogue has never delivered an especially inspiring engine and transmission combination, performance has always been passable, and the current generation is notable for its stellar fuel economy. The second-generation Rogue also has a spacious interior with a large cargo hold and, rare for this class, an available third row of seating. Earlier Nissan Rogues weren't as roomy, but they were more nimble to drive through turns. Overall, we think a new or used Rogue presents a compelling overall package that merits consideration alongside traditional segment leaders.

Current Nissan Rogue
Completely redesigned for 2014, the current Nissan Rogue is a compact crossover SUV with seating for five or seven, depending on how it's equipped. Compared with the previous Rogue, it offers a much larger backseat, significantly more cargo capacity, higher fuel economy ratings and a longer list of safety features.

All Nissan Rogues are powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is standard, and buyers have a choice between front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. With either drivetrain, fuel economy ratings are above average for this class.

The Rogue is available in three trim levels: S, SV and SL. Standard equipment on the base S includes 17-inch steel wheels, air-conditioning, a rearview camera, Bluetooth, iPod/USB connectivity and a four-speaker sound system. The SV adds 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, keyless entry and ignition, a power-adjustable driver seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, smartphone integration features and a six-speaker sound system. The SL comes with all that plus 18-inch alloy wheels, foglights, heated mirrors, leather upholstery, heated front seats, voice controls, a 360-degree parking camera system, a navigation system (with a 7-inch touchscreen) and a nine-speaker sound system.

Key options include a two-passenger third-row seat (S and SV models only), a power liftgate and a panoramic sunroof. Optional safety equipment includes a blind-spot warning system, a lane-departure warning system, a forward collision warning system and "moving object detection" (which works in conjunction with the multi-view parking cameras).

One thing we always liked about the original Nissan Rogue that has carried over to the second generation is the smooth ride quality. Neither the steering nor the handling is particularly sporty, but most buyers will appreciate the Rogue's relaxed demeanor. In reviews, we've found the Nissan's 2.5-liter engine adequate to the task of commuting. During harder acceleration, there's a noticeable growl from the engine as the CVT maintains a constant high engine rpm to provide the motivation needed for passing and merging. This makes for a noisier cabin environment than in some competitors.

Otherwise, the Rogue's cabin is a pretty nice place to be. Materials quality is high, and everything is put together with care. Nissan's available infotainment interface is quite easy to use as well. Seat comfort is excellent in the first two rows, and thanks to 9 inches of fore/aft adjustment, the 40/20/40 second-row seat is adult-friendly. The available third-row bench is a kids-only proposition, but the fact that Nissan offers one at all gives the Rogue a leg up on its rivals from Ford, Honda and Toyota.

Used Nissan Rogue Models
The first-generation Rogue debuted for the 2008 model year and was produced through 2013. After 2013, this Rogue continued on as the Nissan Rogue Select (reviewed separately), which is identical save for its abbreviated options list.

The original Nissan Rogue used the same 170-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine as the current model. All versions were offered in both front-wheel- and all-wheel-drive configurations, and a CVT was standard.

First-generation Nissan Rogues were available in two trim levels: S and SV (known as the SL from 2008-'10). You got the basics with the S, including keyless entry, air-conditioning and full power accessories, along with an iPod interface. However, things like privacy glass, a rearview camera, Bluetooth and satellite radio were available either within an option package or on the SV. Higher-end items like heated leather seats, a navigation system and a Bose sound system were available as options on the SV as well.

Like the current crossover, the first-generation Rogue offered a smooth, comfortable ride. Handling was actually a bit sportier than on the current version, while acceleration was fairly quick for a small four-cylinder crossover. However, engine noise was a persistent annoyance during passing maneuvers, as the CVT kept engine revs high to maximize the available power.

Styling is a subjective matter, of course, but to our eyes, the first-gen Rogue cut a rather dashing profile compared to its compact crossover brethren. Rear visibility consequently suffered, as did cargo capacity and rear-seat accommodations. Although this Rogue represents a good value as a used vehicle, shoppers needing room for child safety seats or a large dog will likely find it short on space.

Changes to the Nissan Rogue were minimal during this generation. It received minor styling updates for 2011, and trim levels and option packages were reshuffled over the years. For 2010-'11, the Rogue was offered in a Krom Edition model, which added larger wheels and cosmetic enhancements, including centrally located exhaust outlets.

User Reviews:

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  Super Comfy - 2011 Nissan Rogue
  By Brenda - May 4 - 3:17 am

  I have only had this car for a month and so far I love the seats and the comfort of the interior. It has a bigger engine than my Mazda CX-5 but the gas mileage is terrible. I am getting 17.5 city and maxed out at 26.5 on a short road trip. What!?! Oh and the backup camera is useless during the day. So much glare on the screen I cant even see it. So that coupled with the blind spots youd better get used to craning your neck. Oh and the gear shifter gets stuck in park sometimes. It was fine the first week, the second week was stuck every single time. And now seems to be fine again.

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  Almost Perfect - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By Black Rogue - April 28 - 7:26 am

  Purchased two Rogues over the past 3 months. One is SL AWD with everything but leather package and the other has everything. In general, the cars ride smoothly, but can be noisy at wide open throttle. Highway merging is not a problem with the QR25. A good first attempt by Nissan in the cute-ute segment that needs a few improvements.

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  Excellent Mini-Murano - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Artie - April 10 - 2:53 am

  We replaced our 98 Subaru Outback with a 2008 Rogue. We were looking for better fuel mileage and another 4WD vehicle. After several months, we found the Rogue. Loved it from the get go. The only issues I would note are 1. Reflections of dash trim in the side mirrors, 2. no locking gas cap or door, 3. worried about paint issues around hatch hinges - sheet metal bends too easily 4. Tire Pressure Warning cannot be de-activated for winter tires on seperate wheels unless they are equipped with special valves. We have about 2500 miles on the car and we love it so far.

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  Great bang for the buck - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By tellurian - March 13 - 10:53 am

  This is an excellent little car. For a modestly priced vehicle it has all the basic safety and handling features. Ive had it for a week, it is a solid and well built vehicle.

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  Love It - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By RK - February 17 - 5:46 pm

  We leased an AWD SL and have had the vehicle for about two weeks. So far, we are well pleased. We had an Explorer and while it was a nice vehicle, we really didnt need to be hauling around so much iron. I have not checked the fuel mileage but the little mileage minder on the trip computer shows an over all average of about 25.4 It is fairly comfortable for a smaller cross over. I love the exterior design. It performs adequately for us. Im adapting well to the CVT with no up shifting. Im well pleased with this vehicle thus far.

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  Satisfaction - 2016 Nissan Rogue
  By Robert A - February 13 - 9:54 am

  I am impressed with the gas mileage. I have owned the Rogue since August 2016. So far, I average 27 city and 36 highway. Driving seat is comfortable but I would like another 2 inches of leg room. Plenty of head room. Storage space is ample. Wish they had a sunroof for the base model S. Still figuring out all of the electronics and the weather hasnt allowed me to test winter traction. Speakers are weak but this is a base model. Would highly recommend as a cheap all-wheel drive that is predominantly front wheel drive. Nissan wins with this one.

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  handsome vehicle - 2016 Nissan Rogue
  By james elliston smith - February 11 - 9:33 am

  We have had this vehicle for two months, and so far, more positive than negative. Exceptional gas mileage. Complaints on the car mostly concern its different transmission, the CVT. You just have to learn how to drive it. You wont win any drag racing from a stoplight, but normal driving, this transmission is really smooth. When starting from a standstill, accelerate as if an egg ere under your shoe. Gas mileage is about 26 around town. Very roomy especially back seat. Attractive interior, comfortable on long trips. Compared it to an Explorer which is 6 inches wider and 6 inches longer. Basically, it drives different and takes some getting used to.

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  Very Early, but Like it So Far! - 2011 Nissan Rogue
  By teflon1968 - February 1 - 10:26 pm

  Alright, Ive only had my Rogue for about 4 days now. I had leather seats installed (but not the $3800 SL package). The ride is pretty smooth for an SUV; looks sharp; accels well; breaks on a dime. Very small issues I have with it: Bluetooth is not as comprehensive as say the Honda systems. For instance, you cannot listen to music from your phone via BT. Setting phonebook data is a pain if you have multiple numbers for one contact. Not a lot of gadget space; USB & alt 12vlt are in bottom of the center arm rest--so if you put anything in it, youre covering the outlets--bad design. Again, little things. This is my first post; Ill update as I have it longer...hopefully it will be good

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  My New Baby - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By lovemynissan - December 31 - 8:40 pm

  Well, I finally broke down and purchased this sweet ride. It is an absolutely wonderful car and I cannot rave more about the CVT transmission. Just when I thought I wouldnt get any pep from a 4 cyl. engine and I would have to bite the gas mileage bullet and go with a 6, I drove this. Its fun, stylish, and sexy. The warranty leaves a bit to be desired, especially because of all the alternative out right now, but I purchased an extended in case.

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  Dangerous Windows - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Elephant - October 30 - 2:53 pm

  I loved my new Nissan Rogue until the other day when the back side glass shattered into a million pieces without any apparent reason. I had been home only a few minutes when I noticed the glass had shattered. It seemed to have imploded due to the heat and air conditioning combined. The dealership would not accept the fact that it could have been their workmanship or defect in the glass. The glass went into the seat cover about 2 inches deep and would have severely injured a person sitting in that seat. Luckily, the car had just been parked and no one was inside. Glass was thrown throughout the car. No sign of damage due to vandalism or otherwise. Be careful!!