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:

• 

  Lovin My Rogue - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Rogue Lover - August 29 - 9:03 am

  I have had my Rogue since Dec 2007 - could not be happier with this sporty little SUV. I have driven everything from AWD minivans, Honda and Izuzu SUVs, and finally a Pacifica. My Rogue is by far my favorite, it could be that it is cute and or that it has exceptional interior space compared to the exterior size. It has been reliable in the mountains of West Virginia and I have had no problems with bad roads. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for the functionality of a SUV but the handling of a car. I am glad I ignored all those people who told me not to buy a vehicle the first year it was released.

• 

  Very Satisfied - 2014 Nissan Rogue
  By pickyavlbuyer - August 22 - 4:20 pm

  I did considerable research, and kept coming back to the Rogue to meet my needs. After several weeks of ownership this car has exceeded my expectations. The SL is very luxurious and feature laden. Essentially everything seems to be well executed. And the performance is just fine - much better than I expected after reading some of the reviews. This is a great vehicle for its purpose.

• 

  I really wanted to love it - 2017 Nissan Rogue
  By Linda - August 21 - 10:24 pm

  Ok The absolute truth here. I rent cars by the month for the past year. I have driven many different cars. I loved the Nissan Altima but prefer an SUV so I assumed the Rouge would be the comfort of the Altima in an SUV. I now have the Rouge SV model and I have to say the difference is night and day and not in a good way. The Altima I had was the SL model with leather trip and those zero gravity seats. The Rouge is not leather and the seats are terrible. I dont mind cloth seats but these seats are weird and I cant get the driver seat adjusted properly. I do not get where all the great comfort reviews come from. This seat is small and not supportive at all. The worst part is I cant reach the top of the steering wheel. If I move the seat forward my right knee is in the dash. It is a very uncomfortable drive. I have to drive 10 hours in this thing. So my reason for the review is to just warn those considering this vehicle. Go sit in it. Test drive it. Comfort is relative to each individual. I had very high hopes for the Rouge and maybe the SL model would fix the issues I am having but I cant request that in a rental pool.

• 

  2015 Rogue SL AWD Fog Lights & Radio - 2015 Nissan Rogue
  By steve350 - August 21 - 5:44 am

  Purchased the 2015 Rogue SL AWD in Nov. 14 and currently only have 5000 miles on it. Bought the 15 because of the outstanding experience I have had with a 2010 Rogue S. The 15 appears to be nearly as good except that Nissan installs an inferior radio in this high end vehicle. The dealers explanation is that in order to have the SD card slot for the NAVI System they removed the Scan feature for the radio. Only vehicle I have ever known to have done this. Not too smart on Nissans part. Also, big issue with the fog lights. The lens cover is glass which cracks easily upon impact instead of the high impact plastic used in the headlight lens covers. Again not too smart on Nissans part

• 

  It grows on you - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By broka - August 16 - 2:00 am

  I traded in a GMC Envoy because the gas mileage was killing me and I did not really need that big of a car. The interior although well made is plain and simple. The car performs well but I would not call it fun. It is reliable in every respect but there is nothing to get excited about. But after 18 months, it has grown on me as being a very good all around good, practical, safe, comfortable, and reliable transportation.

• 

  Rogue is Best- It beats the rest! - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By Jimbo Driver - August 15 - 11:50 am

  I drove the rav4, forester, patriot, crv,& escape. I have to say in terms of build quality, fit & finish, style, safety & comfort the Nissan Rogue won me over. Everything feels substantial - doors closing, handling, engine. The car is refined and sporty. The cabin is comfortable and all controls are logical (except for the missing radio dial for tuning). The car handles well. Steering is exact. Brakes are strong. In rain and snow the car goes where you direct it. I feel comfortable and safe in this car. Drive one!

• 

  Nissan Rogue 2016 problem with suspension - 2016 Nissan Rogue
  By Roidy Viquillon Gomez - August 8 - 10:22 am

  some of this models comes with manufacturer problems. After 1 week bought it, it start to crackle noise when turn the wheels, right or left side. After first attempt to reparation, passed 7 weeks start again the same noise problem. Nissan corporation do not have a right solution now, they say the engineering are still working for a real solution. I mean, this models comes with suspension issues. Im frustrated.

• 

  Manufacturing problems - 2016 Nissan Rogue
  By . - August 8 - 9:50 am

  I bought the Rogue 2016 two months ago in Koppel Nissan in Queens NY, after the first two weeks the car started with a noise in front and back then I brought the car to the dealer and they told me that this Nissan Rogue has a manufacturing defects, more that two weeks and Im still waiting for a call to fix the problem.

• 

  CVT Transmission is awful!!! - 2011 Nissan Rogue
  By Nellie - August 5 - 12:33 am

  I bought a used Rogue a little over a year ago. It had 45,000 miles on it. The transmission started making a weird whining noise this summer. I googled the issues and was shocked to see the list of issues with the CVT transmission. I ended up bringing it into to Nissan and was told that sometimes with the heat the CVT transmissions will whine but to have the fluid levels checked often. It did stop whining when it got colder and I have the fluid levels checked when I get my oil changed. Well today out of no where my transmission went. I wish I had researched a little more before buying this vehicle. A quick search will show pages of complaints on these transmission. Its a clear problem. Dont buy!!

• 

  Amazing Value - Great Car - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By Nisaan Lover - July 19 - 2:56 am

  After looking at all cross overs, finally settled on the rogue. It was the best value for money for me. Great features, styling. Also drives very well. I have owned this for 6 months and have no complaints what so ever.