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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  Gas Mileage lagging... - 2014 Nissan Rogue
  By franky9 - April 22 - 5:03 am

  I have opened a case with Nissan of No. America, due to the fact that I drove away from dealership with new 2014 Rogue, and was getting 15 MPG. They told me to wait till car reaches 1,000 for accurate gas mileage. Now at 2,000 miles and I am averaging 23 mpg. Not what they are advertising. I am NOT getting anywhere near 30, 32, 33 mpg highway, no way. Sucks and I am not a happy camper.

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  I was set to purchase the Outback until - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By Female Road Warrior - April 18 - 11:03 am

  I read about the Rogue on Edmunds! I purchased the Rogue S w/360. I love this car! It is very comfortable, fun to drive, and affordable! I am a middle-aged female, 52" and I find this car suits my need to carry my sales samples, suitcases,etc. It is peppy, quiet, easy to maneuver. I really enjoy driving this car. I have put 1800 miles on it in just 2 weeks. I travel by car for my job and this vehicle gives me the room and ride that I require. I have the 360 pkg and I love that backup mirror option! Its "no frills" package is just what I need. the AWD is awesome! Winters should be a breeze with this car.

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  Great so far - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By THardey - April 11 - 4:16 am

  Just leased the S version with AWD. As it is built on the Sentra chassis and I previously owned a 2007 Sentra, it improves tremendously on that cars driving feel and performance. Steering feel is MUCH better. CVT takes some getting used to but overall I like it in the early going

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  Outshines the CRV - 2016 Nissan Rogue
  By Kassidy - April 10 - 1:53 pm

  My 2nd rogue. So much better than the Honda CR-V!!! Much more value for the money

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  Finally have a Nissan, and its a winner: 11 Rogue SV AWD w/SL Package. :) - 2011 Nissan Rogue
  By nissmazlover - April 10 - 12:16 pm

  Proud new owners of a Black Amethyst 2011 Rogue SV AWD w/ SL Pckg. Favorite thing about it is its beautiful color! It has touches of black, purple and brown, looks different in all types of light and is gorgeous! The rest of the car is great, too! Were amazed at how much you get for the $ - its LOADED! IMO, its the best looking CUV in its class, feels far more expensive than it is, its refined, comfortable, roomy, powerful (feels more powerful than the specs suggest), feels solid, the CVT is an actually interesting affair, and its fun-to-drive. Have had 2 Mazda 5s that I LOVED, but have always wanted a Nissan, too, and now we have a winner w/the Rogue!

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  Luxury SUV in Disguise - 2017 Nissan Rogue
  By Hector - April 9 - 8:08 pm

  Our 2017 Nissan Rogue SL AWD w/Platinum Reserve Package is, by far, the NICEST car weve ever owned - and definitely deserves a much higher, Edmunds rating than just 3 stars. The Rogue exudes quality and truly feels like a luxury car in disguise - and like it should cost a LOT more than it does. We constantly get compliments from everyone around us who either just sees it (its black with beautiful, silver/black, 19" allow rims, with the tan/camel colored, leather interior) or rides in it. When people do ride in it, they come away supremely impressed and express interest in getting one. And, we continue to be supremely impressed with it, as owners. Theres a reason sales of the Rogue are exploding, people. Its a great SUV! I really dont understand all the adoration the CR-V gets. For us, the Rogue is hands-down better. Its more comfortable, more soothing to drive, better-looking, just as roomy and spacious, and has a more flexible cargo system - not to mention having MUCH more comfortable seats and a smoother ride. Plus, Nissan always works with you to get a good deal, unlike Honda. I admit that the Rogue could be a little faster, but its definitely not objectionable, in the least. The engine is a reliable workhorse, and gets the job done - and with a pleasant, masculine growl to it. Also, the CVT now features "steps" to make it feel more like a regular automatic with much less "drone" - if thats important to you. (I, personally, prefer CVTs over regular automatics - I mean, why would you need to feel gear shifts in an AUTOMATIC transmission, anyway? If you want to feel gear shifts, just get a manual.) Its interesting how Edmunds calls the Toyota RAV4s acceleration "average" for the class, yet calls the Rogues "slow for the class" even though, literally, only 0.1 milliseconds differentiate the two. Biased much? The Rogue, also, handles very confidently. Does it "feel" as "sporty" as the CX-5 or Escape? Maybe not. But, does a car need to "feel sporty" in order to be considered good? Is it no longer a good-enough car simply cuz it doesnt "feel sporty?" Sometimes, automotive journalists are too jaded. The fact of the matter is that it handles well perfectly safe, especially for an SUV, and it instills confidence. Plus, the handling/performance numbers between all the competitors are all similar to each other (things that make you go: "Hmmm."). Also, the Rogue is, actually, a good off-roader that performs awesomely in the snow! Its AWD system is so good that it only trails behind stalwart AWD systems from Jeep and Subaru (btw, there is nary a mention of AWD performance in all these crossover reviews, which all feature AWD. How is that not an important feature to report on? Hello!) The Rogues AWD system is superior to the Honda CRVs (outright useless), the RAV4s, the CX-5s and the Escapes. The Rogue TRULY is a great SUV, people, and youd do yourselves a disservice by simply, automatically and/or blindly going for a Honda, Toyota or Ford without checking one out and driving it - and forming your OWN opinion. Dont let yourselves be influenced by biased, CVT-hating automotive journalists (who, many times, have hidden, money-backed agendas). Go check the Rogue out...youll thank me for it. ;)

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  Amazing SUV for what you pay! - 2011 Nissan Rogue
  By slakshman - March 31 - 6:09 pm

  I bought this car after two months of analysis and ground work and test drives. I will not say this is the best SUV you will get. But this is the best SUV if you like the options it is giving and ready to forego a few if you dont need them. I am not sure about the mileage still since it needs to drive more than 2000 miles for the engine to get into appropriate mileage. Other than that, this is absolutely best. We love it in our family. Overall, if you dont want more space or more cargo area, then Rogue is for you at a "cannot beat me" price with nice technology package. Hope this helps!!!

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  A good Rogue - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By Robert - March 20 - 7:13 am

  My Rogue handles very well even in the wind. Acceleration is good, it rides very comfortably, the sound of the transmission was odd at the beginning but I dont notice it now. No problems getting around this past winter. Im very happy with the vehicle.

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  I LOVE IT - 2011 Nissan Rogue
  By TamaraP - March 9 - 10:00 am

  I am a Nissan owner. I traded my 2007 Nissan Xterra for the 2011 Nissan Rogue. Yes, there is a difference. Height wise, I am 5"11 and 250 pounds, but I fit comfortably, I have only had it for 2 days. Gonna see how it does with fuel for a month. I had a 97,2001,2004 Pathfinders & 2007 Xterra and loved them all. I am a Nissan lover and not many things upset me about any of my vehicles and I had them all brand new. I researched them all before I bought them. I was a little skeptical over the Rogue at first because of my size and height, but it is an adjustment that I can make. The steering wheel size drives me crazy. Need a cover. Any ideas, they seem to all come standard 14.5 or 15.5.

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  I love this car! - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By Kari - March 9 - 12:56 am

  We just bought this car, and it is a thrill to drive! I love the CVT, very peppy and smooth 0-60. I researched and tested Rav4, Volkswagen, Mazda, etc., and none compared to the Rogue style/value. I traded a Pathfinder only due to poor gas mileage, but have always loved Nissan quality. This car looks awesome and is a blast to drive. It is very nimble and responsive... you dont even notice that it is a 4 cyl. I chose the AWD because we are moving back up North in a few months. I was impressed with the 5 star crash rating. I couldnt be more thrilled with this crossover!!