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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  Adding rails to S model Too Costly - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By Erica - July 7 - 5:16 am

  I love this vehicle but two things that irked me ( and others I have met online) is the ridiculously expensive cost to put side rails on top for storage. In order to get this feature, you have to pay 1000+ dollars US. This is silly and nonsensical.

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  almost great for the price. - 2012 Nissan Rogue
  By anthem - July 6 - 12:04 pm

  missing some small things that I assumed would be on the top of the line model. no garage door opener. no locking lid for the gas cap. no lock on glove compartment.

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  Such Fun to Drive - 2015 Nissan Rogue
  By tenhobj - July 4 - 9:27 am

  I have made the move from sedans (my entire life) to a 2014 Rogue. I couldnt be more pleased. It is very comfortable to ride in, and the seat properly fits my long thigh, with the edge of the seat providing support for my leg. This SUV has plenty of pep and overall good gas mileage. The dashboard is bright and easy to read and operate. The sound system is clean and just sounds great. I think for the money I got a tremendous deal. Everyone told me Id be happy, they were right.

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  Not a Rogue - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Lperry - June 23 - 2:50 am

  Traded in a chevy tahoe thought I would hate it. The Rogue handles better and has almost the same power to weight. So far city mpg is 26-27, hiway mpg is 25-26 @ 70-80 mph. we live miles down an unpaved road and it handles the rough rock road better than our truck. Thought I needed the manual shift option for the large hills, but I only use it to hotrod around tight corners. The CVT works great

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  Love it! - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By Sarah - June 12 - 8:56 pm

  Have had the Rogue for about a month now and LOVE it. We loaded up with all of the available packages - leather/heated seats, premium package w/ bluetooth, upgraded stereo, I-key and moonroof. It is so comfortable to drive and ride in, with plenty of room inside and decent cargo space, but still small enough to navigate heavy city traffic and park in crowded garages and small spaces. Ive read the complaints about engine drone from the CVT, but I dont find it to be an issue at all. In fact, I was pleasantly surprised by how smooth the ride is, especially compared to some similar competitor models that I test drove. A lot of luxury and functionality for under $30K!

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  I love this crossover!! - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Colleen - June 9 - 1:33 pm

  Wow-- this car has it ALL. We opted for the SL, no x packages.The one we purchased came with floormats, splash guards and a moonroof. The seats are incredibly comfortable. Even the back seats are somewhat form fitted to your body! The leg room is unbelievable. We fit 2 booster seats and a carseat in the back. The cargo area is very large, with hidden compartments. There was ample room for 2 bales of hay for our Halloween display. The ride is smooth and with the CVT, you cant feel the car shift at all. Its a very quiet ride too. I would definitely recommend to everyone.

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  Wonderful for winter driving! - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By aprilhughes - June 6 - 12:46 am

  I just drove it off the lot 24 hours ago, into the snow! I traded in my Mazda 5 because I was having serious traction issues with the Mazda in icy or snowy conditions. We have had a Nissan Murano for 5 years, and went with the Rogue since we are so happy with the Murano. The Rogue definitely drives as comfortably as the Murano, it feels very similar. I dont feel bumps in the road at all, and the traction with the AWD engaged is exceptional. I am not looking for power or speed, I drive short distances to pick up kids and get to work. The seats are very comfortable, I have to say it feels very luxurious for the price.

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  Nissan comfort - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Robb - June 1 - 11:13 pm

  Great car wife loves it drive great parking highway lots of get up power with shifting speed when needed.

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  Beautiful Car - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By mark - May 26 - 11:36 pm

  I traded a Mercury Cougar for My Rogue and so far I love it! The car is beautiful and a joy to drive. The sound system is first rate and I love having satellite radio and will actually keep it after the trial period. The cargo area is big and roomy. I wish a car cover would have come with the car. I have no garage and want to keep it pristine because I plan to keep it for a long time. So I am saving for a car cover!

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  Rogue Owner - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By really own one - May 7 - 10:43 pm

  Seems a lot of reviews are from folks that got duped into buying the Honda CRV or the Toyota. The Rogue has everything and it all works. The rear window is small but unlike the Toyota there isnt a spare tire in the way or the Honda has three headrests. Any way if you want a perfect car keep looking as they will never exist unless you are a consumer reports fan and then go buy the boring car (CRV) and wish you hadnt but when you get upset grab your copy or CR and tell yourself its reliable !!