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:

• 

  Love this car - 2016 Nissan Rogue
  By Jeff Wilkinson - September 2 - 3:09 pm

  We were also interested in the Mazda CX-5 but went with the Nissan because it is very easy for my aging in-laws to get in and out of the back seat. The Mazda had a much narrower door opening. Also, the back seat is slightly elevated making it easier to see for the passengers in the back. Although the driving experience isnt as sporty as the Mazda, we really like the CVT transmission and are impressed with the fuel economy around town. All of the buttons are in the right place and we love the looks of the beige interior.

• 

  Lovin My Rogue - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Rogue Lover - August 29 - 9:03 am

  I have had my Rogue since Dec 2007 - could not be happier with this sporty little SUV. I have driven everything from AWD minivans, Honda and Izuzu SUVs, and finally a Pacifica. My Rogue is by far my favorite, it could be that it is cute and or that it has exceptional interior space compared to the exterior size. It has been reliable in the mountains of West Virginia and I have had no problems with bad roads. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for the functionality of a SUV but the handling of a car. I am glad I ignored all those people who told me not to buy a vehicle the first year it was released.

• 

  Very Satisfied - 2014 Nissan Rogue
  By pickyavlbuyer - August 22 - 4:20 pm

  I did considerable research, and kept coming back to the Rogue to meet my needs. After several weeks of ownership this car has exceeded my expectations. The SL is very luxurious and feature laden. Essentially everything seems to be well executed. And the performance is just fine - much better than I expected after reading some of the reviews. This is a great vehicle for its purpose.

• 

  2015 Rogue SL AWD Fog Lights & Radio - 2015 Nissan Rogue
  By steve350 - August 21 - 5:44 am

  Purchased the 2015 Rogue SL AWD in Nov. 14 and currently only have 5000 miles on it. Bought the 15 because of the outstanding experience I have had with a 2010 Rogue S. The 15 appears to be nearly as good except that Nissan installs an inferior radio in this high end vehicle. The dealers explanation is that in order to have the SD card slot for the NAVI System they removed the Scan feature for the radio. Only vehicle I have ever known to have done this. Not too smart on Nissans part. Also, big issue with the fog lights. The lens cover is glass which cracks easily upon impact instead of the high impact plastic used in the headlight lens covers. Again not too smart on Nissans part

• 

  Rogue is Best- It beats the rest! - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By Jimbo Driver - August 15 - 11:50 am

  I drove the rav4, forester, patriot, crv,& escape. I have to say in terms of build quality, fit & finish, style, safety & comfort the Nissan Rogue won me over. Everything feels substantial - doors closing, handling, engine. The car is refined and sporty. The cabin is comfortable and all controls are logical (except for the missing radio dial for tuning). The car handles well. Steering is exact. Brakes are strong. In rain and snow the car goes where you direct it. I feel comfortable and safe in this car. Drive one!

• 

  Amazing Value - Great Car - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By Nisaan Lover - July 19 - 2:56 am

  After looking at all cross overs, finally settled on the rogue. It was the best value for money for me. Great features, styling. Also drives very well. I have owned this for 6 months and have no complaints what so ever.

• 

  Perfect car! - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By iluvkev - July 5 - 5:10 am

  I just purchased the Rogue on Sept. 3, 2008 and so far its wonderful! It rides so smooth I can barely feel the bumps in the road. It has plenty of room for my family of 5. Its cute, peppy, and a reliable Nissan. Ive had several cars in the past but this one I refer to as my "baby". I have the pretty blue one and I love the color!

• 

  One satisfied customer - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By contilover - July 1 - 11:03 am

  Up to now Ive driven 850 miles and car performed exceptionally well. No even small problems at all. Its fun to drive. CVT, when you are used to it, provides very smooth and comfortable ride, especially at traffic jams, and "stop and go". Brakes are excellent. Seats are comfortable, dash is elegant looking, especially at night. My Rogue is stripped down SL AWD version, so I cant say much about performance package, Bluetooth etc. The fuel economy was one of the selling points for me, and Im having about 28.5 mpg with 70/30 mix. Considering that car still is braking in, that mileage is very good. Talking about reliability, there is no issues at all yet. Everything looks like build to last

• 

  Fun to drive! - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By Sherrice - June 29 - 2:03 am

  I have had this car nearly a month and all I can say is wow! I replaced my much loved Pathfinder with this and I could not be happier. Yes, I lose space and some off-road capability (which I did not use much anyway), but the handling is terrific. I feel like I am in a sports car! Now I look for excuses to drive and I can because it uses a lot less gas than my Pathy. I totally recommend this little crossover to anyone who needs utility with a great sporty ride. Buy it for the fun of it!

• 

  Great 2 years! - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By lexky - June 19 - 12:40 am

  We have owned our Rogue for a little over 2 years with about 28,000 miles and have only had to have one thing fixed by warranty. Climate control dials that are supposed to light up during the night went out. Very happy with our purchase!