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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  Our Little Rogue - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Nishaw - June 7 - 7:00 am

  After having a wreck in our Murano, we only went to the dealer to "look" at the Rogue. Needless to say we fell in love. Love at first drive!! This vehicle has the smoothest ride, even better than the Murano. My only complaint is the interior dashboard area. I dont know what kind of material it is but it easily scratches. All and all I would definitely suggest you take it for a test drive.

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  Very Impressed - 2014 Nissan Rogue
  By Barry Pardo - June 7 - 12:05 am

  We watched youtube videos on all comprable suvs, we test drove all of them having to decide between the Nissan and the Subaru. I have had the Rouge SV with the tech package and have put almost 15000 miles on it since Feb. 2014. It drives great, we did bring it to the dealer only once to reset the computer on its first tank of gas because it did not do it automatically. I have no complaints and have had Nissans with great experiances in the past.

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  In Love With My Rogue - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Dutchess Rogue - May 21 - 5:03 pm

  Ive had my 08 Rogue SL for 6 months and I can honestly say "Im in love with my Rogue." Ive had a RAV and a Tribute. They cant compare to my Rogue. I picked the Blue and of course had to get the Bluetooth package with Bose and Xenon Headlights. Everyone that sees it loves it. I wouldnt give up my CVT for the world. Do not miss that archaic gear shift feel from the old days. I had an 07 Altima with the same 2.5 and CVT and glad that my Rogue came with the same. I average 25.8 mpg and couldnt be happier. I was averaging 31 mpg in the Altima, but I traded the slight difference in economy for utility. Fair trade off. Its great in the snow, on the highway and even around town.

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  Js Rogue - 2017 Nissan Rogue
  By J. Roberts - May 8 - 12:12 am

  Love my Rogue-way it looks and drives!

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  A Fun Car Not to be Missed - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Angel973 - May 6 - 10:23 pm

  I luv this car. Its compact and cute - IMHO its the most eye-catching compact cross-over SUV in the market right now. Before we bought this car, we had test driven Honda CR-V, Subaru 2009 Forrester, RAV-4 and Matrix 2009 AWD. Rogue provides the best balance for what we are looking for in its segment. Its responsive, beautifully designed inside and out. The gas mileage is reasonable. Best of all, you get the best value out of the money you spend. Highly recommended.

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  Love My Rogue - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Renoguy - April 20 - 9:43 am

  I have had my Rogue for 2 months so far with no problems. I bought a locking gas cap. Some have mentioned the limited vis- ability when backing up, but I like this as it gives me more privacy when driving. When backing up I just raise myself up in the seat to see better. So far all is great including gas mileage. I traded in a Toyota Rav4 for the Rogue and am very happy.

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  Right Choice - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By Orangeville Steve - April 19 - 6:10 pm

  Had two Ford Escapes from 2003 - 2008. Both units were well built and very reliable. Gas mileage was 18mpg combined, with our 60/40 city/highway driving style. After 3 weeks the Rogue is returning about 25mpg which is a big improvement. The Rogue SL seating is very comfortable & supportive. The ride is a nice balance between firm and cushion but never floaty. Six speaker audio is excellent. Cargo capacity is as expected for a CUV but adequate for 95% of our needs. Getting used to the CVT is easier than we thought. Very impressed so far. Hope Nissan service is just as good.

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  Loves It - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Gwynne - April 12 - 6:50 am

  After graduating from college and getting my first "real" job I decided it was time to upgrade my car. Ive always wanted a Murano but couldnt see spending that kind of money. I saw a commercial for the Rogue and went to check it out. Fell in love right away. Its the perfect solution to not being able to afford the Murano. I love driving it! Its a great size and easy to park which is important for me b/c I park in small parking garages in Chicago. It drives so smooth and I love that you dont feel the engine shifting (or whatever). My gas mileage isnt great.. mixed hwy/city Ive had 18 mpg, but Ive only filled up twice. Im keeping an eye on it.

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  Great car! - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By katherine - March 23 - 2:56 am

  Searched and checked out all the small SUVs and found the rogue to have the best combination of comfort, options, quality and price. Compared it to the Honda CRV and Toyota RAV4, test drove those and then finally the drove the Rogue--hands down the better driving experience, sometimes I forget that I am in an SUV and not a car!

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  Love my Rogue! - 2012 Nissan Rogue
  By crd1029 - March 13 - 1:20 am

  I purchased a 2012 Subaru Outback three months ago. Though I had read some reviews about the numb steering, I figured Id test-drive it. The ride and quietness of the car was amazing! The interior was of high quality. It was very roomy and the exterior handsome. But the steering! WOW!! The wheel feels like it weighs 20 lbs. It is numb and unresponsive. It wasnt until I drove it on the highway that I realized how awful the steering really was. The car wanders all over the road and the center of gravity keeps shifting left and right. Scary! After 2500 miles, I traded it in on a 2012 Rogue. LOVE IT!! It has more pep, steers great, is quiet, attractive, and fun to drive. Thank you Nissan!!!!