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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  Not impressed - 2011 Nissan Rogue
  By fayettedale - August 16 - 7:39 am

  I have owned my 2011 SV AWD for 3 months now. I have put 2300 miles on it and keep it the garage and baby it. The interior build quality is spotty at best. I had to have the instrument cluster replaced because of a rattle inside the cluster. The stereo rattles in the center console. There other rattles throughout the cabin, very disappointed in the build quality. The CVT is horrible. It is very noisy and doesnt really help fuel economy, I average 24.6 mpg. I would take this back in a minute and buy something else if I could. On the bright side, it does feel and drive like a sports car. Very smooth ride, as long as the road is smooth and the stereo is very good.

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  Sporty and Comfortable, Bad Visibility - 2011 Nissan Rogue
  By seasidemom - July 1 - 2:58 am

  Rear visibility and rear side visibility out the little rear corner windows is just awful. The head rests are so big it is hard to see looking back. The moonroof/sunroof cover does not retract fully to provide full view of opening. The CVT engine is definitely noisy even when you are just accelerating around town. Very bothersome. I am used to not hearing such a noisy engine. Once you have accelerated and are at cruising speed it is fine, but getting there is loud. I will say that driving the Roque is fun, and comfortable and sporty and zippy. I really do like driving it on the highway, around winding roads and everywhere. If not for the noise and esp. the visibility, it would be great.

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  R1 - 2017 Nissan Rogue
  By Janasnake77 - June 25 - 10:25 am

  I love my Rogue! True that blind spot is a hazard, but other than that, I am very satisfied​. Great family vehicle. Fun to drive!

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  Somewhat disappointed - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Rogueguy - June 20 - 2:16 am

  Transmission had to be replaced after only 8,000 miles. Hope it gets put back without any "new" service provided surprises. Some road noise. Ill try undercoating. Good ride and handling. Fuel economy better than advertised. 26 MPG overall. 32 mpg at 55 mph, 28 at 70 mph. I believe that there is enough power to slow engine to 2000 rpm at 70 mph and improve highway milage with CVT. Rear visibility is a problem. Wide angle stick ons on outside mirror helps. Some engine and air conditioning compressor noise.

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  My New Rogue SL AWD loaded - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By KYTexan - June 5 - 1:06 pm

  We love our new Rogue. Traded out of a RAM1500 quad cab, now getting almost double the mpg which is very nice. Drove all the vehicles in the small SUV segment, liked the Nissan the best overall. I splurged and got all the options; leather, moon roof, heated seats, paddle shifters, etc. I will be ordering the rear wing/spoiler as it wasnt available when I purchased my Rogue. Ive had a ton of folks say they really like its looks. Avg MPG so far on 2 tanks of gas is 22.6 with a 60/40 split of city/hwy driving. Pretty good for something my wife and kids can fit in comfortably.

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  Make the "wobbling" stop!!!! - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By hondagal03 - May 4 - 12:32 am

  I just bought a used 2009 Rogue less than a month ago and have had nothing but problems. The car was supposed to be "certified" as well. It has been at the dealer shop longer than I have actually been able to drive it. There were 6 issues with it, all have supposedly been resolved, except for one...the wobbling while driving 30-45 mph! Today I drove with the service manager, he informed me that it was normal and it was the torque conversion being engaged. I just cant buy that answer! Its annoying! He also said he has told over 600 people the same answer because they come in with the same complaint. Does anyone else have this issue???? I cant find ANYONE online complaining about it

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  LOVE LOVE LOVE my car - 2014 Nissan Rogue
  By jessikah0703 - April 17 - 10:44 pm

  There are a few things I would change about my car, like the light colored head liner, and maybe tint the windows but thats about it. The AC does take a a few minutes to cool the interior, but thats with any car in 100+ degree weather. My average fuel mileage is 27.5. Once I passed about 3,000 miles I started seeing an increase in my gas mileage. I am very rarely getting less that 29 mpg and thats in the city! I looked at every other option for a compact SUV and I really think I made the best decision. The rear AC vents are my favorite feature! My kids were actually complaining the other day about being cold and it was 98 degrees outside the car! Lifetime Chevy owner, turned Nissan Lover!

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  Gone Rogue! - 2016 Nissan Rogue
  By Chris - February 23 - 3:56 am

  Shopped around for a long time looking for a vehicle to replace my 2009 Honda Fit which I loved. However, Im a big guy and I was getting tired of a small car. My daughter will get the Fit and I started looking at SUVs. I test drove the Escape, RAV4, CRV , HRV and the new Sportage. I tell you, I like them all but the Rogue, in my opinion, had the nicest interior and I always liked the exterior. The Ford was more sporty and higher tech, the Sportage was real nice too but it didnt even come with a spare tire and the mileage wasnt that good for this class. Can,t go wrong with any Honda product in my opinion but the HRV was a fit on steroids and I liked the Rogue feel better. The Toyota was more expensive for the similar trim level. We have a 2012 Nissan Quest van and its been great. So I opted for the Rogue since I got a good deal. Overall, Im very pleased. The reviews said that it did not have enough power but I find it more than adequate and Ive been averaging 30 mpg! The seats are a little firm but tolerable. The ride is nice and fairly quiet. The Fit had a great sounding stereo but Im pleased with the Rogues. I had a problem with the passenger side front door rattling which the dealer has addressed. I think the Rogue is a excellent value and I would recommend it without reservations.

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  Luxury Wagon - 2016 Nissan Rogue
  By Pam Lundberg - February 18 - 9:39 am

  I purchased this lovely Rogue because someone t-boned me and totaled my 2009 Murano - :( I LOVED that Murano, so this Rogue had big tires to fill. I bought the SL AWD and it truly is nice. Off the bat though, Im not sitting as high off the road as I was in the Murano, I feel like Im driving in a sedan. Also, the Murano had the V6 and this little nugget is 4 cyclinder CVT - I do notice a slight hesitation when accelerating (but only because Im a brat comparing to the Murano). So those are really the only hmmm moments Im having. Other than that theres plenty of room inside. More head room than the Murano. I was able to go with the almond leather interior and its STUNNING! I have the moonroof that goes the length of the roof, so that is amazing as well. There are cameras galore all over the car, so Im able to look at the screen and see both a normal view AND a birds-eye view of the car.

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  Not quite perfect - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By newrogueowner08 - February 15 - 6:20 pm

  As a former Corolla owner now working in northern NJ, I was looking for something with a little more power & able to handle the mountains, snow & rain. After driving 1500 miles, I have to give it high marks for steering and braking. That said the ride could be a little smoother. There is also noticeable road noise (wind) that seems to be coming from the hatch area as if it werent sealed properly. Seating is very comfortable. I wasnt happy w/the factory black leather w/red dots so I opted for dealer installed black leather. IMO, its much nicer. The Bose stereo is excellent. Nissan forces XM on you, so you will need to install an aftermkt Sirius radio thru the aux port.