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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  Lots of style - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By LT - August 27 - 7:26 am

  Had considered a CR-V, and even a Vibe, but the styling (and the gas mileage) really caught my eye. This is a fun vehicle to drive. It maneuvers easily and has lots of pep. We took it on an 1,800 road trip and there was plenty of power for passing at highway speeds. The CVT works smoothly. So far, mileage has been good; 25 combined and near 30 on the road trip.

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  Mini Murano - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By captcrunch570 - August 14 - 4:46 am

  After 800 miles I must say Nissan did an amazing job with this crossover. Sporty fun and I am getting 24 mpg.

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  Happy in blue - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By happy in blue - August 9 - 2:33 am

  I love my Rogue. I traded in my jeep with poor gas mileage. Im very happy I get an estimated city of 19 to 20 miles and highway I got 29 mile to the gallon. It feels great not to have to fill my tank every other day, I get by with at least 10 days. Wouldnt trade it for the world.

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  Best Nissan yet, or 4 for 4 - 2016 Nissan Rogue
  By Jim Milner - July 30 - 6:29 pm

  My 4th Nissan and 2nd Rogue. I thought my 2012 was great (SV with SL package) and it was, until I checked out the 2016. Its bigger, better equipped and more pleasant driving. It rides better than my sisters Lexus. Some reviews mention noise as a factor, but I find it to be the quietest car Ive ever owned. While a V6 might be nice, theres plenty of juice in the 4 cylinder plus decent mileage. While its still brand new, I expect great reliability like its predecessor. If not, my dealer has a great service department that has always come through for me.

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  Love my Rouge - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By Steve - July 28 - 5:46 am

  This is my 1st time ever owning anything other than GM vehicles and i have to say that Nissan has done a amazing job on building a comfortable and good sized SUV. Sorry GM but you have a lot of rebuilding to do before i ever trust buying American again!

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  So far, So good! - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By xstreamclean - July 10 - 12:25 pm

  I read these reviews and dont understand. Some positive some negative. We have had our Rogue for 2 yrs. currently have about 25,000 miles and it has been a very good reliable car. Never had any problems, just scheduled maintenance. We live in Utah, we have snow, mountains etc. and the AWD is awesome! So far... I highly recommend this car. If you asked me one issue i MIGHT have is the blind spots in the car. The way the back end is formed may make it difficult for a amateur driver. I personally dont mind it, just use your mirrors. Hope this helps.

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  My best car - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By unclewimp - July 8 - 7:30 am

  This is the best car I have ever owned. Forget any negative reports about this car. These people probably did not heed to the owner instructions. I am a mechanic who works for a Toyota dealership. I bought this vehicle because of the technical achievements. It is fun, it is good on gas, it is a pleasure to drive. As for the CVT, have no fear, it is great! The CVT has been used in off road and heavy duty equipment for years. The limitations of this car are negligible and in some cases non-existent. There is some room for improvement, but it is insignificant compared to the overall splendor of this exceptional vehicle.

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  Great Car - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By KGellen - June 29 - 10:36 am

  I am sitting here reading the comments on this car. I understand not all cars are going to be built and last forever. Some just dont work, but if the dealership you bought your car from is not fixing your car then dont hate the car hate your dealer. I have had nothing but great success with my car. I dont expect it to be all mighty i mean its not a Mercedes or an Audi! Is a crossover mid level SUV. Not the most expensive vehicle you can buy! Its great for getting groceries or hauling the big dog around! Its the best buy in its class in my opinion with the look and feel of all other crossovers.

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  Almost perfect SUV - 2017 Nissan Rogue
  By David - June 26 - 11:05 pm

  I have the 2017 Rogue SL package. Great car in every aspect except the "premium" sound system. I had the 2015 SV version with the regular sound system and it was actually a little better. I have one malfunctioning speaker in the rear left door that needs replacement. Super comfortable to drive and so far, it handles rally well on snowy/icy pavement with my Goodyear WeatheReady tires.

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  Great SUV - 2017 Nissan Rogue
  By Johnny Quest - May 26 - 4:18 pm

  I really like my Rogue a lot. Wasnt expecting it to be my favorite test drive, but it was. Rides great, quiet on the road, feels very solid, connected with the road, and upscale. Gas mileage rating is spot on. After 4000 miles Im averaging exactly the rated 27 combined mpg and I drive combined city and highway. Actually about 1 mpg better than my previous midsize car was so Im not complaining for an AWD SUV. The CVT also turned out to be better than expected. Easily and seamlessly compensates for hills on the interstate without hunting for gears - just finds it sweet spot on rpms. Transmission can be a little slow to respond at times but has no trouble getting up to,speed if you give it a little extra gas when called for. Reviewer says its slow, but a 0-60 time of 8.6 is hardly lethargic for the class of vehicle and given that its just a 4 cylinder engine and its class leading gas mileage, I have no issues with the performance. Sun and Sound package on the SV model is great. Instrumentation and technology also very nice. Plenty of room for passengers and versitile cargo arrangement capabilities. Overall, an excellent vehicle. I have no regrets purchasing it and would do so again today.