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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  3000 miles and still luv it - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By roguecustom - August 23 - 5:17 pm

  Bought our Rogue in Aug. 2010. Liked the styling and handling. Got indicated 34 mpg on the way back from Chicago to Madison at 58 mph. Dropped to 31 at 65 mph. Cold weather drops mileage considerably. In mostly suburban driving in winter we average 23 mpg, freeway driving 28. The AWD/ABS/Traction control is fantastic in the snow. Its wonderful to be able to accelerate without spinning wheels and hoping theyll grab before the wolf pack descends on you. We installed U-haul hitch, grille chrome, lower side chrome accent strips, and roof rack which approximates the 2011 look. Also installed a compass/Homelink/garage door opener/self-dimming rear view mirror from Ebay which is great.

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  no brainer for the price - 2014 Nissan Rogue
  By docrad1 - August 23 - 8:18 am

  We looked at a lot of suvs used and new, when we added up the standard features the new gas mileage, the features and the package option that added a lot more for less than 1500 dollars this wa a no brainer. the safety features are great and at the price of the vehicle this is not even available in comparable suvs. the MPG in the 2014 models is enticing and makes you fell better buying this vehicle.

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  What a great purchase! - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Mary - August 22 - 7:16 am

  I bought my Gotham Grey Rogue last week and it has got to be the best car/truck/SUV I have ever driven! Its sporty yet practical! Cant wait to try out that AWD on these Colorado mountains! Hard to believe that the smooth ride and comfort is classified as a truck (??) I highly recommend if you are in the market take it for a test drive! Youll fall in love with it!

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  Excellent Choice - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By Roguelover - August 15 - 10:00 am

  I was trying to buy a CR-V / RAV4 and was not able to get a good deal, so in frustration, went to see the rogue. After test driving it, i was really glad i came to the Nissan dealer. It drove great, looked great, was extremely smooth and quite and the best part, was much cheaper than a similar crv/rav4. After owning a SL with premium package and sunroof, i am glad i purchased. We just love this vehicle, its smooth drive. It averages around 26 - 27 mpg. Great features. Wish it had more trunk space though. Overall, great vehicle

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  Rattling Noise - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Rattling Noise - August 15 - 10:00 am

  I had my 2008 Rogue SL AWD - best value with all the amenities - leather seats, bluetooth, XM radio, however from Day 1 they cannot seem to get rid of the "Rattling" noise under the drivers seat. I was told it is the CVT. They have changed the transmission at Warranty costs. I have received a Nissan memo that they have found a fix. Took my car 4x to dealership but still no fix. I am about ready to swap with 2010 model. Will stick with Rogue because I love it.

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  Rogue One, Star Wars limited edition - 2017 Nissan Rogue
  By tjs - August 13 - 9:01 pm

  First off, not purchased because it was a special edition...it just had a lot of features I wanted, and not a lot I didnt want or need. The HID lighting is excellent, the heated seats are nice and comfortable, and cloth, which we prefer. The sound system upgrade with 9 Bose speakers, 2 being subs, and the ginormous panoramic moon-roof, really opens up the interior, and adds to the ambiance. Speaking of which, the foot-wells in front light up and can change color to suit your taste/preference, as do the doorsills ( only the 1 color there ). It is not a hot rod, nor was it meant to be, and unless hammering on it, the cvt is not that intrusive, and makes up for it in mpg. Ive had no issues passing or merging, and off the line, to 30 mph, its time is nearly identical to the 6 cyl. Murano, and about a second slower to 60. Ride itself is decent all around, as is the handling. Remote start a plus, in heat or cold conditions. Happy so far, but not a lot of miles on yet. This particular model is like an SV 1/2, or between the standard SV and SL, with a couple options even the base SL does not have. Price was way better than the new CRV, and even the Rav and Forester, comparably equipped, of course. It is a car you should consider, test drive, and compare side by side ( charts ) if you are in the market. Yes, we got the helmet and badges/emblems also.

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  Wow! - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By cycler1 - August 10 - 10:53 am

  Looked at numerous vehicles for a year, hands down the best, sporty yet stable handling, carlike smooth ride, seats fit me perfectly, very comfortable leather, good thigh support, head room just enough, am 6 feet tall, bountiful leg room, actually have seat forward with plenty of leg room in rear. Went shopping and had plenty of cargo room. Dash very smart, simple and sporty, all gauges easily readable, acceleration more than ample, car feels like going slow at 65 mph, tried paddle shifters, fun but not necessary, grey with grey interior, beautiful and classy, wife so happy with car, never saw her like this with a new car, she loves the look, the feel, the comfort. Nissan has a winner here.

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  Fantastic!!! - 2016 Nissan Rogue
  By Elle Kay - August 6 - 9:13 pm

  We upgraded from the 2013 Sentra SR to the 2016 Rouge SV for our college-age child. I honestly cant say enough about this vehicle. It looks great, and feels great. I upgraded to the Pearl White exterior with charcoal interior and its a beautiful car. The ride is very smooth and it handles very nicely. The interior feels very roomy. I also especially like the flexibility in the storage area in the back, as several other reviews have mentioned. There are many safety upgrades with the 2016 that are well worth it. My daughters favorite thing is the heated seats and mine is the auto lift gate. We highly recommend the 2016 Rogue SV.

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  All was perfect until it got a bath. - 2015 Nissan Rogue
  By littlescarlet - July 22 - 4:08 pm

  Well Ive only had the car a couple of days now and after my buyers remorse finally subsided I started enjoying my car. I gave it its first wash was going to aquapel my windshield and I came across a major problem. The wipers hit the hood. After reading blogs and such the solution is to put it into service mode. The problem the in that lies that it needs to be turned on to place them upright. Well in winter this is not a solution when theres 8" of frozen snow lodging the wipers in between the hood and windshield. I read that its to improve aerodynamics but I honestly think it was an oversight. That or whoever designed this didnt take into account winter areas such as wisconsin.

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  Great - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By rupeycakes - July 14 - 1:53 pm

  I am very thrilled to be the new owner of the 2009 Nissan Rogue. It has a super slick exterior look. Although the interior could use some spice. Really miss the extra storage spaces that my old car had. I upgraded to the leather seats and highly recommend it. It is fun to drive very similar to my old car as far as how it handles. Very quiet and good gas mileage. The back window could be larger to help with vision, however the side mirrors are a good size, so I just need to get used to using my mirrors more. Overall great car and highly recommend it!