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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  Highly Underated - 2016 Nissan Rogue
  By E. Tillman - March 7 - 6:18 am

  This SUV/CAR is underrated by far!.........Great quiet smooth ride and engine is quite peppy enough......cruise control is so effortless I find myself using it all the time and then I feel like I am sitting on my sofa at home.......The visibility all the way round is great but especially up front----it makes you feel safe because you can see in every direction......radio and speakers are better than I first thought after playing with the controls just a little.......fun to drive and mileage so far is good after being checked with a calculator.....around 32 on the highway......and 26.9 in city.......I rigged up a couple cut 2 x 4s UNDER the removable floor sections in the rear to make it easier to carry heavier items in the back and still keep it clean.....I love the navigation system and the safety cameras on the side and back while using the back up camera.......SUV feel with car like drive......I can go to the supermarket for groceries or a long driving vacation or bird hunting in the field or church on Sunday...........I would call that versatile enough for a Texan........and the wife is happy also......First Nissan and I would highly recommend this to anyone.......I happened to be in a friends Altima a couple weeks before I purchased my Rogue and the ride is the same........Great SUV/CAR!...5 stars and the Midnight Jade--well I havent seen another one on the road.......making it feel like a custom ride.........

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  Amazing Bang for your Buck!! - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Cberg - March 3 - 9:00 pm

  I traded in an older loaded Jeep Grand Cherokee for this & thought Id miss the space but havent had the first regret. I got mine loaded so the gadget factor is really fun! I didnt know how bluetooth worked so having it shut off my music for an incoming call is great-no more missed calls(and mic picks up my tots voice in back great)! I love not having to deal with keys at all since I have a toddler. Love the Bose sound system but above all, love the ride! The drive is very smooth with CVT, once youre at speed its SUPER quiet.. turn on jazz or classical for a great experience. It hugs the road too - didnt realize how bouncy the truck frame on my Jeep was. Avgd 25 mpg. 10 stars!

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  I actually like this car. - 2011 Nissan Rogue
  By Debra Stafford - February 28 - 12:35 am

  After reading all the other bad reviews... I was hesitant to jinx the good experience Ive had! I bought it used with 20,000 miles on it. It now has 73,000 miles and all is well! The repairs I have had to put into it are pretty normal and expected from all cars. I actually love this car. I used to own many Jeep Cherokees before this and my troubles were many! I paid my dues! Just glad to catch a break with this one...so far so good :)

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  Great Small SUV - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By bradwesley - February 24 - 3:10 am

  This was a great buy. I am very impressed with its great mpg. I get about 23-25 mpg in the city and about 29-30 mpg on the highway. I am also impressed with its acceleration. I have no problem passing on the highway. I really enjoy the CVT. It is smooth and very nice. The interior is very nice and functional.

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  Perfect Size, Great MPG, Great price - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By EricS - February 17 - 1:16 am

  Had the car for two months now with 4000 miles on it. I am getting 27-28 mpg with 50% stop and go, 50% highway. Still cannot wait each time to get in and drive it. The engine is quite peppy for a 4 cylinder. The center console and glove box are cavernous. Sound system is adequate but dont get the premium package just for the Bose sound. Not worth it. Love the steering wheel controls and 6 CD changer and AUX audio jack. Styling is much better than a CRV or RAV4. Nissan engineers did great with the fit and finish of the car as well as user errors such as turning off all int./ext. lights after 5 minutes if accidentally left on.

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  King of the hill - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Adam13 - February 14 - 7:10 pm

  After 35 years of MB ownership it was time for my first CUV. Did much research and was drawn to the class leaders, RAV4, CR-V, Outlander, Escape, Forester and Vue. In my opinion the Nissan Rogue trumps them all. Style - no spare hanging off the rear. Ride - firm yet compliant, smooth and comfortable. Engine - smooth as a babys bottom. Power - more than enough for the job. Economy - averaging 23 mpg. Build quality - flawless. Interior - intuitive, understated luxury. If you believe that the whole can be greater than the sum of its parts than I urge you to test drive this vehicle before making a decision. This is the new king of the hill!

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  Love my New Rogue - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Bill - January 27 - 2:20 am

  Overall excellent vehicle. I am very happy with the way it drive and rides. So far for a brand new car gas mileage around town 25.1 mpg

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  Love it - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By Ken - January 15 - 12:23 pm

  Need high seats for my back, wanted better gas mileage than my Acura MDX was giving me, so I looked at smaller crossovers. Focused on Honda CRV and Toyota RAV4 and didnt love either. The Rogue was stylish, very technologically advanced and I didnt think I was giving up much by going to it. So far, so good. I got the premium package and leather. Very comfortable, great ride and handling. Great bluetooth system, which is important to me. Sound system is as good as you could want. I do not miss my MDX.

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  Love my Rogue - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By rogue4u - January 11 - 6:10 am

  Just got my new Rogue and love it. A vehicle that looks as good as it is fun to drive. I would not want to have any other vehicle in the Crossover class other than this one. Out of them all this one is the BEST!!!! Any doubts take one for a test drive you will fall in love with it like I did.

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  Mini Mommy Car - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By Lou79 - January 6 - 9:36 pm

  I turned in my 07 Altima 2.5 SL Lease for a brand new 10 Rogue SL and am extremely happy. Has the same transmission as my Altima and I love the CVT. I dont think its loud at all and is more fuel efficient. Im a mom of two small children and commute 80 miles round trip everyday to/from work. The Rogue fits the bill as far as more comfort for the family and easier access for storage in the hatchback area. Plus, now I have a place to do a quick diaper change. Much easier to lug the double stroller around, but still fuel efficient for my long commute. I dont find the window in the back to be too small to view my blind spot like others have mentioned.