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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  Exactly what we wanted, not disappointed - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By RS - May 18 - 4:03 am

  After studying all the compact SUVs, we decided that the Rogue was just what we needed. It had good mileage (for this class of vehicles) and, in fact, we are getting 26-27 in town and close to 30 on the road. It has the clearance and AWD we needed for moderate off-the-road usage (wildlife surveys, kayak in-putting, etc.). In addition, it is very comfortable and quite quiet on the highway. Handling is better than the other compact SUVs that we tested. Reviewers complain about the storage capacity being less than some of the competitors, but we do not need it and appreciate the better looks and handling of the Rogue. Bigger is not always better. After 4 months and 5K miles, zero defects.

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  More than I could ask for this price! - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Rocky - May 16 - 4:56 am

  I was in the market for a small SUV for over 6 months. I started looking in the 25k range and then moved to the 35k range to get all the features I wanted. The problem, however, was that I didnt want to commit to a payment that would tighten my purse strings every month. When I found the Rogue, it was everything I wanted and fun to drive!! It was also priced right. I love everything about the car. My husband, who was convinced the 2.5L engine wouldnt give enough power has also been surprised and I can hardly get him out of the drivers seat!! I truly think you get a lot for you money in the small SUV.

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  2008 Nissan Rogue - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Very cool Rouge - May 10 - 4:53 pm

  The Rogue is tops in its class of compact crossovers when considering performance, quality, and price. Ive had many vehicles, 4th Nissan, and truly enjoy the fun nature and utility the Rogue offers. Great handling/ride combo. Very sporty without crossing the harsh line. Good quality and refined. Good gas mileage. Quiet. Very nice style and design. Great features and great Bose stereo. Small turning radius. Very good driving position and seat comfort. Fast for a 4cyl. Big glove box. Definitely worth your consideration if in the market for smaller SUV/crossover.

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  The Reviewers just dont understand - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By scott - April 25 - 2:03 am

  The reviewers say the CVT is "odd" but driving CVT takes a new skill. Once mastered you will love it! Beautiful interior, great performance on road and VERY fun on dirt roads with AWD I recommend the leather with red stitching, beautiful. I get lots of compliments on the sound of the exhaust. The paddle shifters are fun but you dont "need" them for fun. Lots of head and leg room compliments from passengers. Corners great. Accelerates better than many V6s on the road with me. Kinda hard to see out the rear, but its small so you can use the mirrors typically, very few blind spots. Love the in-floor cargo box and HUGE glove box. Probably the largest on any vehicle. Love the stylish gauges and audio.

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  3rd nissan, GREAT ride - 2011 Nissan Rogue
  By MG - April 18 - 6:15 am

  I have owned a 99 Maxima, a 2009 Altima, and now a 2011 Rogue Krom AWD edition. All my Nissans have been great vehicles. The Rogue has been my favorite, as living in New England an AWD vehicle is a must. The ride is extremely smooth and often pasengers ask if its even on when at a stop. I bought this car used with 47,000 on it from a 1 lease owner. 3 years later Im at 102,000 miles with nothing more than regular oil changes. I just had the breaks done and will put new tires soon as winter approaching. But After 3 years, thats not bad at all. The car is great on gas, and has an extremely comfortable interior from front to back. Lots of space in trunk area, just overall a great ride if you want an SUV without the big engine/big gas expense. I would compair the ride almost identical to that of the Altima, but with AWD. GREAT car for sure

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  Excellent Choice. - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By denrama - April 5 - 9:33 am

  This CUV is very nice. I sold my Nissan Altima 2001 and got Rogue. One thing good about Nissan is, it will give so many options with a good price. If you go with Honda or Toyota, you have to pay for each option separately. This CUV drives like a car, sits high, fun to drive. The drive is almost smooth. One thing that bothered me is the small wind noise at high speeds( > 55 mph) other than that, I have no complaints. I feel like I am driving a good pimped up vehicle.

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  Great Little SUV - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Geemurf - March 30 - 12:33 am

  In the commuting world of Metro New York the Rogue is fantastic. Great gas mileage 26 MPG in AWD, not just FWD like the CRV. Handles the parkways, highways, and yes even the Tapanzee Bridge with steel plates and all remarkably. No hydroplaning on the Saw Mill in a downpour. Almost astonishing power for a 4 cylinder engine, great ride. Roomy even for a 64" person. Not to mention nice styling, nice looks. Buy this car.

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  Fun to Drive - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Fever - March 28 - 11:23 am

  I have owned her since October. I just rolled 10,000 miles. She is fun to drive and is very obedient. Driving requests are fulfilled flawlessly. Steering is very responsive, as are braking and accelerating. CVT pulls hard under acceleration, making interstate merging quite easy. Very nimble in traffic, yet comfortable on the highway. Entry and exit very comfortable, as is the unlimited fan speed selector. Great move Nissan. Had two airbag service appts but all fixed up now. You have to expect small hicups with a brand new model.

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  Love My Roque - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By RogueFan - March 15 - 10:13 am

  I love my 2008 Nissan Rogue. It is my first "grown up" car, and I have thoroughly enjoyed having it. My husband and I are both over 6 tall, and we both fit comfortably in the front seats. The interior and exterior are very well-designed (this opinion is coming from a professional product designer). Nissan really did a great job of including a number of convenient features in the Rogue (i.e., a deep glove compartment, nice cup holders, an auxiliary plug, pen holders, insurance card holders, etc.). The Rogue comes with great safety features such as side curtain air bags and a tire air pressure monitor. These are great features that come standard on the base model Rogue S.

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  Rogue - 2017 Nissan Rogue
  By Chris lamping - March 13 - 11:46 pm

  Drive it