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:

• 

  From a Ford to a Nissan - 2017 Nissan Rogue
  By Rogue17 - June 5 - 3:03 am

  After years of driving Fords I bought my first Nissan back in August when I decied I wanted to go back to an SUV I absolutely loved it!!! I compared the Rogue SL to the Escape Titanium loved them both but the Nissan was about $8,000 less and has all the features that the Escape had. Its more fun to drive and has a sportier styling. Theres not much difference in the gas millage between the too. I just might a Nissan man from now on

• 

  My Wife and I Love this SUV - 2012 Nissan Rogue
  By georgebake - June 1 - 1:20 pm

  We have absolutly have no complaints about the car. I test drove Suburu, Honda CR-V, Toyota Rav 4, Ford Escape and Hyandai Santa Fe and the Rogue blew them all away. Very good ride, quiet, confortable seats, lots of room. We got the premimium package which provides back up camera, GPS, auto head lights, roof rails, keyless entry and start and power seats, all for about $1400.00 for the package. My wife is 65 and she says it is the best car she has ever owned. I have a CX-9 which I love but prefer to drive the Rogue. Great pickup and very quiet. Great rebates (2K).

• 

  JUNK - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By JUNK - May 31 - 11:26 am

  Sorry I bought this 2010 Rouge.From the day I drove it home. The car vibrates & the steering wheel shakes. Took it back 6 times. They do not know what is wrong with it. I test drove other rouge. And it does not shake or vibrate. I believe it is the transmission. The repair shop does not think it is transmission. Deep down they know it is the transmission. I am suppose to be fully covered. Never buy a car from Nissan of Queens. They are thieves. Whom rip off the customers and over charge you. Buyer Beware!!!!!! I want my car fixed. And the dummies cannot figure out whats wrong with it.

• 

  Fun to drive - 2012 Nissan Rogue
  By cyndi5 - May 29 - 12:33 am

  I leased my Rogue SV a couple months ago after coming out of a lease on a Pathfinder. After I got used to the smaller vehicle I find that I enjoy driving it. It does not have the pick up when you hit the gas that the Pathfinder had, but Im getting about 25 MPG. Im writing this today because I didnt realize that Nissan no longer offers road side assistance with their new vehicles and I wanted to make sure that buyers are aware of this. This service was offered when I leased my last Nissan and I made the mistake of assuming it was standard...its not, so please be aware of this when you look at a new Nissan and add the cost of AAA into your cost when shopping.

• 

  My new Rogue - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Seg800 - May 20 - 10:33 am

  Formerly owned a Corolla, loved it but wanted an SUV for snow, rain, ice, etc. Drove my sisters Rav4, hated it and decided to check out Nissan. The Rogue is very cool looking and comes with great features. Drive is very smooth, quiet and comfortable.

• 

  IM IMPRESSED - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By delighted in Dayton - May 18 - 8:40 pm

  We have had the Rogue now for a week. I am very impressed with the quality and all we got for the money we paid. We have been true blue Toyota owners for years, but we were not impressed with the Rav 4. The Rogue won out in our thorough research of every possible choice on the market. It sits high enough to be above other cars, but is a comfortable step up into the car. We did get all the bells and whistles. Just had 5 inches of snow here in Ohio, and the AWD worked like a charm. Cant recommend it enough. Considering my wife wanted a Lexus, I pushed for the Rogue and she is liking it very much. Lucky for me.

• 

  Not bad but terrible sealing - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By Young - May 6 - 12:50 pm

  Overall performances are acceptable. Three major problem. 1. Free penetration of cold air through knobs and buttons due to bad sealing 2. Noisy in wet days due to same reason. But Nissan consider it as normal, which means it is their limitation in technology 3. Very bad rear side-view visibility. Youd be very careful when you try to change lane. There are much wider blind area than any other car due to very bad visibility. I almost hit other car several time in 3 months driving, which I have never experienced before with other cars in my 30 years of spotless driving history. So, not recommended for young drivers. Minor comment is bad front cup holder design Overall: Not recommended

• 

  Make the "wobbling" stop!!!! - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By hondagal03 - May 4 - 12:32 am

  I just bought a used 2009 Rogue less than a month ago and have had nothing but problems. The car was supposed to be "certified" as well. It has been at the dealer shop longer than I have actually been able to drive it. There were 6 issues with it, all have supposedly been resolved, except for one...the wobbling while driving 30-45 mph! Today I drove with the service manager, he informed me that it was normal and it was the torque conversion being engaged. I just cant buy that answer! Its annoying! He also said he has told over 600 people the same answer because they come in with the same complaint. Does anyone else have this issue???? I cant find ANYONE online complaining about it

• 

  Poor Seats and Bad Gas Mileage - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By newowner2012 - April 25 - 11:32 pm

  I bought my 2008 FWD Rogue a week ago. I am so disappointed. I commute 60 miles round trip via Interstate to work, so little of my mileage is in town. I am lucky to get 23 mpg. I dont drive super fast, usually anywhere between 60 and top out at 80 on rare occasions. I see reviews on here of people getting fantastic gas mileage. I dont understand why mine is so poor! Any ideas? My gas costs have gone up $100/month (projected) and I had not planned for that kind of an increase! The seats for me are very uncomfortable. My upper back has no support. The upper part of the seat leans back too far for me and I find myself in pain. Terrible time seeing out the back - dangerous to back up!

• 

  LOVE LOVE LOVE my car - 2014 Nissan Rogue
  By jessikah0703 - April 17 - 10:44 pm

  There are a few things I would change about my car, like the light colored head liner, and maybe tint the windows but thats about it. The AC does take a a few minutes to cool the interior, but thats with any car in 100+ degree weather. My average fuel mileage is 27.5. Once I passed about 3,000 miles I started seeing an increase in my gas mileage. I am very rarely getting less that 29 mpg and thats in the city! I looked at every other option for a compact SUV and I really think I made the best decision. The rear AC vents are my favorite feature! My kids were actually complaining the other day about being cold and it was 98 degrees outside the car! Lifetime Chevy owner, turned Nissan Lover!