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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  Best crossover on the market. - 2015 Nissan Rogue
  By Joe - June 3 - 7:28 pm

  Just traded our 13 Rogue SL with 70,000 miles for a 15 Rogue SL. I really get tired of the reviews that brag up the Honda CRV and the Toyota Rav 4. When we bought the 13 it came down to the CRV and Rogue. We chose the Rogue because it was a better all around package for the money. This time came down to the Rogue vs the Rav 4. Again,the Rogue won out even though the Rav 4 was slightly less money. The Rogue has all the features that the Rav 4 offers and is far superior in many areas. The ride is superior, much smoother and quieter, the seats are much better and more comfortable,and the interior quality is far superior. The acceleration is just as good as the Rav for any normal driver

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  Good Vehicle - 2011 Nissan Rogue
  By navetx - June 1 - 8:19 pm

  My SL Rogue is a very good vehicle. I bought it for a daily driver but wanted it loaded. While it has almost everything, it really needs a home link option, a rubber pad for the left foot rest and a bigger screen for the nav/back up display. Other than those issues, the Rogue delivers. Its very quiet for a small SUV, and cruzes well on the highway. Also, after 10,000 miles in 6 months, Im getting over 25 combined city/highway mileage.

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  Excellent choice. - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Don - May 28 - 5:16 am

  This car is nice, comfortable, run smart and very smooth. The fuel economy is also very competitive. My wife is so happy and loves it. Wise choice!

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  Love my Rogue 360 - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By jmc101109 - May 26 - 10:00 am

  I was looking to trade in my 2008 Altima for a small SUV with AWD. When I test drove the Rogue it felt perfect, very similar to driving my Altima, which I loved. Havent had to use the AWD yet, but overall this car seems to be very solid and has driven well in the rain. One major complaint would be the HUGE blind spot to the rear. Back-up camera helps backing up, but nothing you can do on the highway. I also wish the Rogue had a package like the convenience plus the Altima has, I miss the sunroof, steering wheel controls, bigger door pockets and an interior gas cap release.

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  My Rogue - 2011 Nissan Rogue
  By Dave - May 26 - 10:00 am

  I have only had the vehicle for 3 weeks, but I love it. Ride is great, and plenty of leg room for passengers. Cant wait to test it out in the snow.

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  My First SUV - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Judith - May 26 - 12:23 am

  I saw the Rogue on my way home from work and I knew that was the vehicle I wanted. I had my previous car for 12 years, through two or three transmission, two car accidents (one not my fault). My husband kept asking me to please buy a new car, but I couldnt because I didnt see one I wanted to buy, until I saw the Rogue through the glass window of the bus I was riding home on. Its quick, fun and easy to drive, but doesnt feel like a big bulky SUV at all. The only problem I had was finding a comfortable seat position. If I sat too close to the steering wheel, I felt cramped. If I sat too far away, I couldnt reach the peddles. I finally found a good position. I love my Rogue.

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  Nice SUV but bad AC - 2014 Nissan Rogue
  By jscak - May 23 - 9:38 am

  Bought AWD SL 2014 Rogue in Apr 14. Only 4800 mils on it but havebeen to dealer two times due to auto AC problems. Dealer replaced seal on one visit but AC still not efficient. Seems to take forever to switch from recirc air to outside air in a relatively mild climate (Maryland). Dealer said AC working properly during last visit - if thats the case then AC is poorly sized for this vehicle. Had several other vehicles witn Auto AC and never had this problem - it was basically set-and-forget. Latest problem is cool air comes out of driver side vents but warm outside air out of passenger side with both sides set at 72 deg. Going back to dealer again.

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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.