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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  Great small SUV at 3500 miles!! VERY happy! - 2012 Nissan Rogue
  By pjclark4 - May 14 - 7:13 pm

  The drive is terrific. Plenty of pick up. Not sure why anyone would need a V6. I mean, if you want to drive that fast, buy a sports car. The 4 cyl has more than enough to get us on the highway and for passing. At 6ft 2 and lanky as can be, I am extremely comfortable. Plenty of leg room in the front, although I cant speak for the back as Ive never sat in it. My 5ft 7in wife fits fine in the back behind me with two car seats though, so that says something. After 3500 miles, the MPG estimates appear dead on. We can get 30 going 55 in flatter areas, 23 around town (DC), and 27ish at my preferred 80mph on the high. Ill take that for an SUV filled to the brim most days.

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  Everything We Expected - 2012 Nissan Rogue
  By obie1974 - May 13 - 6:04 pm

  We researched all crossover vehicles in our price range of $30K. Weve owned 6 Nissans in the past and own the 2010 Armada. For a small car, it performs well, has plenty of power for the size vehicle and can get up to highway speed without a problem. We read all the reviews, and most were on-target and we didnt find any surprises. We are used to the CVT transmission and the "drone" is not an issue. We do notice more road noise, but it isnt annoying. The Bose system, Nav and cameras are excellent. We added the home link mirror and a roof wind deflector which work great. We are getting 24 mpg at this time without a complete break-in. It is a fun car to drive, but most of all, comfortable.

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  Wow - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Penny - May 13 - 12:36 pm

  I have found just what I needed. I was looking for a all wheel drive vehicle. Checked out a few other, but keep coming back to the Rogue. The style is classy and uplifting. Not the standard handling or look for a SUV. Drives more like a car.

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  Love it! - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By ChrissyTina - May 9 - 4:13 pm

  We just bought this car and are absolutely in love. We upgraded from a WRX - we have a 1 year old and needed more room. My only quirk is the speedometer. I like having the numbers at every 10 MPH, and a definitive line at the 5 marks. most of the speed limits here are 25, 35, 45. everything with a 5. But thats just my personal quirk. The view through the back is smaller then I am used to, but i dont find that its too small and have no trouble backing up. It is comfortable and fun to drive, and much easier to transport a 1 year old, and all of his gear in.

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  HAD FOR 3 DAYS and the transmission needs replaced - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Brittany - May 9 - 3:26 am

  my car is in the shop -/+ 92,000, I should have read all these reviews but I needed a car and wasted 9000$ thank god there was an extended warranty in the vehicle. but its up soon and I am so scared this car will cause an accident and now I dont want to drive it. I really hope this helps someone deciding on a car do not impulse buy read this and save money. its worth it in the long run.

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  nissan rogue failure - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By funissan1 - March 30 - 5:25 am

  Unfortunately I cant use profanity because all that comes to mind when i think of the 2009 nissan rogue i bought my wife is a 4 letter adjective starting with the letter F. Bought the car brand new november 2009 for my wife her first new car EVER. 8 months after buying it service engine light came on car started jerking every time she tryed to excellerate. Trip 1 to service department Transmission had to be completely replace. 6 months later car had same symptoms. Trip 2 to service department #2 cylinder missfire whatever that. Computer replaced. 5 months later same symptoms Trip 3 to service department same computer replaced AGAIN. Trip 4 same symptoms out of warranty $1700 repair.???????

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  Fun to drive - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Happy in SC - March 28 - 9:53 am

  After driving a Pacifica for 3 1/2 years, this is a real treat. The four cylinder engine is quite peppy and really can get up an go when needed. Its nice to have better gas mileage and still have a comfortable car. We are amazed at the roomy interior, didnt feel like a downsize at all. Only thing missing is auto lights on this model. Have had other Nissan products and like the way they drive and hold up. Havent had to spend a lot of dollars other than normal maintenance on them. Expect the same on the Rogue. Try one, youll like it.

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  So far, so good - 2016 Nissan Rogue
  By Steve - March 27 - 2:28 pm

  The Rogue was originally on my short list back in October 2014. Back then, I ended up buying a 2015 Mazda CX5 Grand Touring. Fast forward to March 2016, I regretted it. My transmission died and needed to be completely replaced after just 24,000 miles. I decided I wanted to get out of the Mazda at that time. So, I looked at the Rogue again. So, a lot of the pros will also mention things that I already like a lot better than the CX5 for those who are also considering that one over the Rogue. Pros: -The entertainment system is much faster than the Mazda. My iPhone 6 paired with the Nissan very quickly and downloaded my address book in about 5 seconds. The Mazda always had delays with the entertainment system whether it was Bluetooth to switching from FM radio to XM radio. I dont know why but it was just slow. -Its very comfortable -For those who like moonroofs, I upgraded to the SL Premium Package which included the panoramic moonroof and its amazing how much natural light gets into the vehicle now. If you have kids, my kids seem to love it since the moonroof extends over their seats. -The rear seats can be slid forwards and backwards adding extra cargo room in the back. -The LED headlights seem to illuminate the road better than the Mazdas LED headlights did. -Both the Mazda CX5 Grand Touring and the Rogue SL have Bose speakers. The Bose speakers seem significantly better in the Rogue than in the CX5. Cons: -An all weather cargo trunk tray is not available. They dont make one because the trunk can technically have shelves (You can lift up the floor coverings to uncover additional cargo space that goes about 6-10" down extending the entire area of the trunk). This is also obviously a pro as well because it adds extra functionality but I also like to have an all weather cargo tray when I go to get garbage such as mulch to put in the back. -The blind spot warning system is nice but I find that the volume is low and apparently there is no way to adjust it. The one thing I liked about the Mazda better was the blind spot warning system because the volume was both louder and the indicator itself was in the side mirror making it more easily visible. In the Rogue, the indicator light is inside the vehicle near the side mirrors where there is usually a speaker in many cars. All in all, I think there is a better value in the Rogue and Im happy with it although from what I understand, there have been minor changes to the 2016 CX5 versus the 2015 CX5 that I had.

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  Extremely Uncomfortable...... worst ride ever - 2017 Nissan Rogue
  By Lh2018 - March 27 - 1:57 am

  Worst ride ever. The back seats are ridiculously uncomfortable. God help you if you are taller than 52. Seats are elevated so you sit higher than the fronr seats. They sit straight up and head rests lean forward. Cant adjust either. Very uncomfortable. Cant see anything out the Windows from back seat either because of angle of seats and elevation. Just awful. Front seats arent any better. Stiff no contouring no room. I would NEVER buy this car. Ive never been in a more uncomfortable car. Horrible

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  The car wed like to love ! - 2013 Nissan Rogue
  By ricbrk - March 19 - 3:38 am

  We purchased the Rouge new. It was a attractive, solid car, nice to drive. But, first, the paint chips and scratches to easy. Navigation is dangerously inaccurate. We use our Garmin. After dealer changed oil at 3,500 miles, we noticed the engine getting loud on any load being put on it, passing, climbing grade etc.. Drowns out radio. New, mpg was 25.4 consistently. Now 23 and falling. We feel it is because of engine loudness issue. Interior is wonderful. Radio a little disappointing for a Bose. It now has 5,000 miles, and a dealer claims engine noise is normal ? If this car would have remained as we drove it off the lot, wed love it. Unfortunately, its in a downhill spiral.