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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  So far, so good - 2016 Nissan Rogue
  By Steve - March 27 - 2:28 pm

  The Rogue was originally on my short list back in October 2014. Back then, I ended up buying a 2015 Mazda CX5 Grand Touring. Fast forward to March 2016, I regretted it. My transmission died and needed to be completely replaced after just 24,000 miles. I decided I wanted to get out of the Mazda at that time. So, I looked at the Rogue again. So, a lot of the pros will also mention things that I already like a lot better than the CX5 for those who are also considering that one over the Rogue. Pros: -The entertainment system is much faster than the Mazda. My iPhone 6 paired with the Nissan very quickly and downloaded my address book in about 5 seconds. The Mazda always had delays with the entertainment system whether it was Bluetooth to switching from FM radio to XM radio. I dont know why but it was just slow. -Its very comfortable -For those who like moonroofs, I upgraded to the SL Premium Package which included the panoramic moonroof and its amazing how much natural light gets into the vehicle now. If you have kids, my kids seem to love it since the moonroof extends over their seats. -The rear seats can be slid forwards and backwards adding extra cargo room in the back. -The LED headlights seem to illuminate the road better than the Mazdas LED headlights did. -Both the Mazda CX5 Grand Touring and the Rogue SL have Bose speakers. The Bose speakers seem significantly better in the Rogue than in the CX5. Cons: -An all weather cargo trunk tray is not available. They dont make one because the trunk can technically have shelves (You can lift up the floor coverings to uncover additional cargo space that goes about 6-10" down extending the entire area of the trunk). This is also obviously a pro as well because it adds extra functionality but I also like to have an all weather cargo tray when I go to get garbage such as mulch to put in the back. -The blind spot warning system is nice but I find that the volume is low and apparently there is no way to adjust it. The one thing I liked about the Mazda better was the blind spot warning system because the volume was both louder and the indicator itself was in the side mirror making it more easily visible. In the Rogue, the indicator light is inside the vehicle near the side mirrors where there is usually a speaker in many cars. All in all, I think there is a better value in the Rogue and Im happy with it although from what I understand, there have been minor changes to the 2016 CX5 versus the 2015 CX5 that I had.

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  So Happy with this 2014 Nissan Rogue SV - 2014 Nissan Rogue
  By jlbwhite - March 8 - 10:41 pm

  I researched which car to buy for months and when I saw the re-design of the Nissan Rogue, I knew they got it right. Went and test drove the Cr-V, the Insight, and then the Rogue. The SV had cloth seats, which I prefer, but I could get a panoramic sunroof and the back-up camera with this model. That was all I needed. The car is super sharp in black, its just a pleasure to own, its so well made. I highly recommend this car. I think that for future models, they will give the engine a bit more juice - it could be peppier. But I dont care as much about that, and its plenty responsive for me. I feel so pampered in this car -- highly recommend.

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  Great Car - 2015 Nissan Rogue
  By bobjob - March 2 - 7:00 pm

  Coming from a family with only Toyota Rav4s the Rogue is 100x more premium. Mom owns a 2014 Toyota Rav4, the difference in quality is pretty astounding. Although I think the Rav4 engine is a bit more peppy initially, the Rogue seems to have more power on tap to accelerate once your already going. The car is great. I got the Sv with Premium Package, (unfortunately did not get the sunroof because of a great deal) and I could not be happier. The sunroof would have been nice to have, but the noise and heat beaming on my head isnt missed either. 1500$ for a sunroof alone is a rip off anyway. All the features are great and the around view camera is something all my future cars will need to have.

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  Long time Rogue Owner - 2017 Nissan Rogue
  By Garry Sargent - February 5 - 10:01 am

  On my 4th leased Rouge and the vehicle gets better every time I renew my lease. Went from a 2015 S model to a 2017 Midnight Edition right before Christmas..absolutly love my Grey Midnight Edition especially since our area received over 90" of snow right after we picked up our vehicles (wife went from a 2014 Juke to a 2017 Rogue Sport)..handles snow like a champ!

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  FAST and Fun To Drive! - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By Robert - January 2 - 3:03 am

  Wow! I got this car because I loved the transmission this car carries the same engine, and same transmission as the Nissan Altima. 2.5L 170 hrs 175 torque. It faster, saves more gas, more reliable engine then the RV4 or Cr-V. Nissan Rogue won. On the turns it has better control and a smoother ride and a better suspension system for a smoother ride. If you hit a pot hole your steering wheal wont move. Its awesome!

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  Love this car - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Providence - December 28 - 6:43 am

  I am absolutely in love with this car. It drives amazing. I love having an SUV. I went from a 2005 altima to an 08 rogue and i love love love this car. I even have my boyfriend who has an infiniti loving it- and hes a automotive "snob" jk hes not but he like his performance vehicles. Love it. Love it. Love it.

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  Just 2 weeks old now - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By GF - December 5 - 11:46 am

  This is our 2nd (yes 2nd) 2010 Rouge! Bought my wife hers Dec 09 and got mine 2 weeks ago. I drive 35 miles to work (one way) and am currently getting 25.3 mpg - Love the AWD grip and coming from an 06 Altima I can really notice the difference in road noise (being less in the Rogue) even with the stock tires. The Rogue is solid / firm and gives the feeling that you are in control. Tons of power - if you want a 6 cyl, i say buy the Murano. With the known Nissan reliability, I am confident of worry free driving in a great car for years.

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  Pseudo-car Crossover SUV - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By VegasBoy - December 5 - 8:13 am

  I drove a Nissan 350z 2006, Altima Coupe 2008 and 2009 Mercedes C300 Sports, before i bought this car because i am going to have a baby. Compare Rogue to this car this is what i get out of it. Rogue as Advertised really handles better than the c300, equal of altima and lower than 350z. braking and acceleration is the same as an altima.Road comfort rogue is below c300 but above the altima and 350z. Rogue is a Nissan with it comes their trademark quick acceleration and darn good braking. The interior is ok unless you are expecting luxury then better have Murano. Fuel Economy-rogue is better than the three around 24 mpg city, havent tested in highways. Rogue is a good fit for a starting family

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  No regrets! - 2014 Nissan Rogue
  By vaslup - December 1 - 6:07 am

  I traded in my 2011 328xi BMW for the SL Rogue as I needed more space and better mileage. People get surprised when they sit in the back, feeling spacious and comfortable. I am getting 23-27 miles per gallon in the city and 31-33 in the highway and the average is about 27, outstanding! A bit slow at the beginning, but it was expected due to hp and 4 cyl; however, if you need that extra bust, press the "sport" button and you will be a bit surprised how much faster this baby can go. Great ride a and sound system better that my BMW. In my opinion, no other Crossover/SUV will give you a better bang for your buck, not to mention is good looking and stands out from the crowd!

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  Happy happy Wife And Husband - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Gotta A Happy Wife! - November 23 - 12:20 am

  My wife and I have driven our Rogue for over 6 months now and Ive never been happier about a purchase than I am about this one. I had owned a Jeep Wrangler before this that was terrible on gas and this was a pleasant change. I avg. around 30mpgs on the highway and around 25mpgs around town. You cant ask for anymore out of an SUV then that can you? Road trips are fun and more comfortable than ever! I love this car! I driven the Rav4 and the Honda CRV and neither can touch what my Rogue provides me.