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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  So Happy with this 2014 Nissan Rogue SV - 2014 Nissan Rogue
  By jlbwhite - March 8 - 10:41 pm

  I researched which car to buy for months and when I saw the re-design of the Nissan Rogue, I knew they got it right. Went and test drove the Cr-V, the Insight, and then the Rogue. The SV had cloth seats, which I prefer, but I could get a panoramic sunroof and the back-up camera with this model. That was all I needed. The car is super sharp in black, its just a pleasure to own, its so well made. I highly recommend this car. I think that for future models, they will give the engine a bit more juice - it could be peppier. But I dont care as much about that, and its plenty responsive for me. I feel so pampered in this car -- highly recommend.

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  Great Car - 2015 Nissan Rogue
  By bobjob - March 2 - 7:00 pm

  Coming from a family with only Toyota Rav4s the Rogue is 100x more premium. Mom owns a 2014 Toyota Rav4, the difference in quality is pretty astounding. Although I think the Rav4 engine is a bit more peppy initially, the Rogue seems to have more power on tap to accelerate once your already going. The car is great. I got the Sv with Premium Package, (unfortunately did not get the sunroof because of a great deal) and I could not be happier. The sunroof would have been nice to have, but the noise and heat beaming on my head isnt missed either. 1500$ for a sunroof alone is a rip off anyway. All the features are great and the around view camera is something all my future cars will need to have.

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  Good Value! - 2011 Nissan Rogue
  By pagoss - February 20 - 12:10 am

  Bought it new. We now have 11,500 miles. We traded in a 2010 Altima, for the security of AWD. My wife then decided she would rather have the comfort of the Altima, so we just bought a 2012 Altima. I inherited the Rogue, LUCKY me!!! My only negative is the noise of the CVT in the Rogue. No noise with the CVT in the Altima. It is also a bit cramped driving for a 63" 300# guy. Everything works fine, but I am starting to hear a few rattles as mentioned in earlier comments. I will keep my ears open!!! I would get a sun roof if I bought another.

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  Long time Rogue Owner - 2017 Nissan Rogue
  By Garry Sargent - February 5 - 10:01 am

  On my 4th leased Rouge and the vehicle gets better every time I renew my lease. Went from a 2015 S model to a 2017 Midnight Edition right before Christmas..absolutly love my Grey Midnight Edition especially since our area received over 90" of snow right after we picked up our vehicles (wife went from a 2014 Juke to a 2017 Rogue Sport)..handles snow like a champ!

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  Family Car - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By Nick - February 1 - 3:16 pm

  My wife needed a larger vehicle than the VW Beetle she was driving after having our baby. I looked at Gm and Ford, but I felt a cold shoulder from them. Like it was my duty to buy American. No sir...you dont pay my bills. We passed a Roque on the highway and my wife loved it. After looking we decided this was the right car for us. We stepped up from the S to a 360 package. These extra features set it apart from the base model. As a guy who builds bikes on time off I need style and this little crossover isnt lacking it. Im actually a little mad that I cant drive it every day.

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  love everything but the engine - 2012 Nissan Rogue
  By bellasmom2 - January 4 - 2:51 pm

  Love everything about it except its 4 cyl. only option. It goes NO WHERE when I hit the gas. In summer, I have to turn the air conditioner off to get onto the highway! After being on the highway for a while with the A/C running and then stopping, I press on the accelerator to find the car doesnt even move. I thought it had broken down in the middle of the road until it started inching along. I took it to the dealership and they told me that theres nothing wrong with it. The engine performance is a joke! I called the dealership to ask if the 2012 would come with the 6 cyl. option and they told me to buy a Murano. Sorry Nissan, the Murano is too big so now Im seeking another brand!

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  FAST and Fun To Drive! - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By Robert - January 2 - 3:03 am

  Wow! I got this car because I loved the transmission this car carries the same engine, and same transmission as the Nissan Altima. 2.5L 170 hrs 175 torque. It faster, saves more gas, more reliable engine then the RV4 or Cr-V. Nissan Rogue won. On the turns it has better control and a smoother ride and a better suspension system for a smoother ride. If you hit a pot hole your steering wheal wont move. Its awesome!

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  Love this car - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Providence - December 28 - 6:43 am

  I am absolutely in love with this car. It drives amazing. I love having an SUV. I went from a 2005 altima to an 08 rogue and i love love love this car. I even have my boyfriend who has an infiniti loving it- and hes a automotive "snob" jk hes not but he like his performance vehicles. Love it. Love it. Love it.

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  Good Enough - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By GREEN NURSE - December 19 - 3:53 pm

  I love this ride. It was a huge upgrade from 10 yr old ford subcompact. Comfortable, OK gas mileage, love the front cabin storage compartments. Sound system was good too. I purchased the S AWD. And this ride is good enough for me. I expect to feel safer driving to work during the next winter storm. Safety is the number one reason for purchasing this ride.

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  Just 2 weeks old now - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By GF - December 5 - 11:46 am

  This is our 2nd (yes 2nd) 2010 Rouge! Bought my wife hers Dec 09 and got mine 2 weeks ago. I drive 35 miles to work (one way) and am currently getting 25.3 mpg - Love the AWD grip and coming from an 06 Altima I can really notice the difference in road noise (being less in the Rogue) even with the stock tires. The Rogue is solid / firm and gives the feeling that you are in control. Tons of power - if you want a 6 cyl, i say buy the Murano. With the known Nissan reliability, I am confident of worry free driving in a great car for years.