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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  Love My Roguester - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By Tina - March 26 - 3:46 am

  After 12 years of driving my reliable, beloved Toyt Corolla, my husband insisted I get a car that he "fits" in. He is 604" and we compromised on getting a small SUV. I have never owned nor wanted an SUV. I literally researched and test drove the smaller SUVs for a year, before finally looking at a Rogue. We both absolutely LOVE it. It is so smooth, stylish, comfortable and unique. I love the fact that my husband does not complain about sitting in my car any more, since he has ample room. And most of all, I love walking up to my car, admiring the sleek exterior, looking around, and getting excited all over again that I am the owner of the coolest looking car on the parking lot.

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  Would Recommend - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By SecondNissan - March 24 - 9:00 pm

  I have had this car for approximately three weeks. Getting used to the CVT transmission took some time, and you have to learn how to "drive" all over again, or your RPMs will constantly be above 3K. The interior is well put together, but I dont understand what the excitement over the Bose sound system is - its OK, but nothing magical. The front seats are comfortable, but it would be nice if the steering wheel telescoped. The shift paddles are nice, but I dont see a need for them with the CVT - if you drive the car right, it knows what to do. The red radio display tends to wash away in bright light. Overall, a nice vehicle that I would buy again.

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  The Rogue is wonderful! - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By NewRogue2008 - March 21 - 11:23 am

  After test driving numerous cars and smaller SUVs, I kept coming back to the Rogue. It offers great features (not offered on other cars in its class), numerous safety features, and comfortable seats (unlike the Honda CR-V which I also had considered - the EX-L hurt my back like crazy after a 15 minute test drive). The Rogue has great fuel economy (for an AWD SUV), looks sleek, and drives so smooth! Its visibility compares to every other smaller SUV that I have ever driven. So, as a former sedan driver, visibility in my new Rogue seems just fine to me. I love it!

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  Shes a rogue - 2016 Nissan Rogue
  By K K - March 13 - 2:16 am

  Ive had the car only a few weeks. I am enjoying driving it. This is personally my first SUV. However not the first one I have had experienced with. It is comfortable but not super peppy (which I obviously knew prior to my purchase). It isnt the most important thing to me, but I know it is with some people. The most disappointing thing about the car is that I had to bring it in. The repairs are under warranty and in no way were caused by me. But it is still annoying! And having to deal with the dealership is even more annoying. Many...not all....of the individuals I have come across there (mainly in the service department) are unprofessional. But that is all I will say about the dealership here, as this review is for the car.

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  scam - 2017 Nissan Rogue
  By Aj - March 6 - 7:11 pm

  make sure company will not scam you with maintenance plan

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  Just My Size! - 2011 Nissan Rogue
  By cetta - February 28 - 2:12 pm

  I love my 2011 Rogue. Its comfortable, fun to drive, and a great buy. I was just car looking and not planning to buy until spring but drove the Rogue!And the rest is history. I bought my Pearl White Rogue on December 3. I dont like big vehicles and this is perfect. My husband never likes the cars I select; however, hes really impressed with my Rogue. (That says a lot). Also, Miles Nissan was great to work with!

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  last review traded it in - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By twowhldoug - February 14 - 5:34 pm

  final follow up on 2010 rogue,has 58,000 miles.Traded it on a pilot yesterday.Didnt buy a pathfinder due to premium fuel req.Unlike the 2009 we had the 2010 has been very nice to own.Only issue had for the length of ownership was the fuel gauge,not very accurate(was replaced once).The rogue has been a fine car,and has been fun to drive.Anytime punched up fuel mileage was 27pluss.the bose audio and blue tooth was a high point.Replaced tires at 44,000 and just maintenance.Dealer(Hunt Nissan)was the best.Feel bad about loosing them to the Honda guys,but we had to have a bigger car that used reg fuel.Ican say that a Rogue is a good choice to have.

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  09 SL AWD 9 months and rolling - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By sschrupp - February 11 - 5:40 am

  Overall Im pretty happy with this vehicle, but no longer quite as ecstatic as I was in the beginning. Within a couple months of driving the trans started making a chattering noise. Dealership replaced the trans. Now they need it for about 3 hours for various recall issues. The Bose stereo sounds like all the sound is focused on front center speaker. The headrest is uncomfortable, and doesnt stay down, always slides back up. The sideview mirrors whistle at higher speeds and gusts of wind. Gas mileage isnt great, but hilly area with 65+ speed limits accounts for that. On positive note, it rides smooth, accelerates nicely, looks great, handles like a pro, great in inclement weather.

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  "Very Disappointed" - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By LISA - February 1 - 3:03 am

  I buy my Rouge in July 2008 in my 4 months used the car CheckEngine on. The dealer say me nothing happen only need be careful to gas plugin correctly and the checkengine is off. But that not happen. My second request to check the car dealer found a problem is the gas censor had fabric damage. The dearler repair but in 1 year have the car appear more problems at this time is the temperature very high, airconditioner dont working and shaky all car.

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  Burned by the CVT - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By wiulax - February 1 - 12:24 am

  I been very happy with my 2008 Rogue over the 1st 126,000 miles. I liked it so much that I decided to hold on to it beyond the 120,000 warranty on the CVT. That decision is now going to cost me 4,000 for a new CVT since the transmission failed to the point where I had have it towed to the dealership. Of course Nissan has not offered to pay 1 penny of the replacement cost. When it comes to the CVT failure, I think it not a matter of if, but when it will fail. Hopefully the replacement CVT is better than the original