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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  A lot of car for a little price - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By maddog88 - January 3 - 2:06 am

  What a great crossover. We have had the Rogue for 4 months now, and it has performed admirable. The wife wanted a small SUV with all the bells and whistles. After researching the costs of the competition, test drives, etc, we choose the Rogue. Its fun to drive, slightly under powered when combined with the CVT, but we knew that going in and improved gas mileage was a much higher priority than sports car acceleration. If I really want to drive it hard, I just slip it into manual mode and use the steering wheel paddle shifters. Very cool option. Gas mileage has been great with 25 in the city and 33 hiway. Very well made car and look forward to years of driving this one.

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  Rogue... what took you so long! - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By King - December 13 - 8:26 pm

  This a fun, delightful, amazing crossover SUV. What an impression Nissan made with this innovative vehicle. It is great on mileage, style, and ride. We got out of a Mazda 6s and the ride feels better, the mileage is just as good, and the style is truly astonishing. We are getting compliments everywhere we go with the Rogue. The only qualm I have is the power, I would like to have more horses, but I am very happy with what I have now. If you are trying to look for a great crossover with plenty to offer at a great price, look no further. We truly looked at all other crossovers, both foreign and domestic, and the Rogue is by far the best!

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  2010 Rogue S AWD CVT - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By JK - December 12 - 10:10 pm

  I bought this Rogue in January during a snow storm. I traded a Titan that had electrical problems and wanted a small SUV. I am 6ft 1 250 pounds and was not sure about feeling comfortable in a small SUV. Well, I was wrong. I can put my seat in a comfortable position and my wife who is also six foot fits comfortable in the back along with a child seat. Plenty of room in the back for a stroller and luggage (groceries). Have not had this long enough to test gas mileage. Make sure you test drive this on a rainy day.. Because its a hatchback there is ALOT of road noise. If this bothers you dont buy it, Nissan cant fix it. Awd worked great in the storm, my wifes altima would not even get out.

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  Oh My Goodness!! - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By Becky - December 12 - 7:46 am

  Own Mercury Mountaineer but wanted something to drive to work that got better mileage. Didnt count on this! Awesome interior - hubby is 601" and needs lots of leg and head room - hes got it. Comfortable, roomy seats. Excellent turning radius. Great back seat leg room also and plenty room for luggage. Exceptional head room! Quiet - almost no road noise! Smoother ride than our nephews Honda CRV. We are both thrilled with purchase. Couldnt be happier! Enough to make this ol grandma feel like shes really "styling". Best of both worlds - SUV style combined with fuel economy, comfort and grace!!

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  Nice Car - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By AC - December 3 - 2:53 am

  Overall this has been a great car. I purchased it about 3 weeks ago and have already made two trips to the mountains for skiing. The 4 cyl. engine has been fine going up the hills and I have been able to pass with no problem. The ride is really comfortable and I am happy I purchased it.

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  Supremely Happy With My New Rogue - Its In A Whole Nother League! - 2014 Nissan Rogue
  By nissmazlover - November 22 - 11:25 am

  I am SO happy with my new 14 Rogue SL AWD and am totally in love with it! Nissan did a REALLY good job in this new redesign. I was a happy owner of a 11 Rogue SL AWD, but once I saw how nice this new baby was, I traded up! What an upgrade! This new Rogue not only looks better inside AND out, but its better in EVERY way compared to the old one. Its good looking, comfortable, fuel efficient and SO nice to drive. My favorite feature is the supremely high build quality and luxurious feel of the car, in general. It feels like Im driving a $40K car. And, Im getting compliments on it EVERY where I drive. Do yourself a favor and sit in and test drive this car. You WILL be impressed!

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  Great value, reliable, fun, and nice interior! - 2012 Nissan Rogue
  By tagamasid1023 - October 20 - 11:44 am

  Glad that we chose the Rouge and didnt follow the stereotypical Toyota and Honda advice. Our Rouge is now a year and half old (9400 miles) and still very reliable. Fuel efficiency is amazing, but it greatly depends on ones driving style - learn to maximize the CVTs advantage and youll save a lot of fuel! The Rouge meets all our demands and needs. The cargo space is fine with us, since we dont load a lot of stuff. I noticed the engine "drone" happens when the engine is not sufficiently warmed up in the morning, especially during winter. Nevertheless, I wouldnt trade the Rouge for a CRV or RAV4.

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  Ideal choice for Singles and Small Family - 2012 Nissan Rogue
  By supragya - October 11 - 7:12 pm

  Bought Nissan Rogue 2012 S AWD Special Edition. Requirement - Looking for a crossover which could address the requirements for small family (couple and an infant) and it fit the bill perfectly. - AWD - We get lot of snow here in Phily and AWD became a necessity. Rationale and Decision Making. - Special Edition provided very good value esp with the reverse parking camera (and 15" aluminium wheels, steering mounted controls, privacy glass, decent audio system) and fog lamps; a must for this SUV which huge D Pillars which limits visibility.

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  I Like Rogue - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By JoeD - October 11 - 7:59 am

  Learn about CVT transmissions and treat them nice and you will love them!

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  Best Compact SUV - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By GMan - October 3 - 10:06 pm

  Just got a new Rogue SL AWD in Venom Red with gray cloth interior. What a great little SUV! I tried the CRV and RAV4 before deciding on the Rogue. The CVT is great. Very quiet. Try the Rogue, youll be happy!