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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  Happy I went Rogue! - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By Lisa in Boston - September 15 - 7:20 am

  I was looking for an AWD vehicle that was baby friendly (because wow car seats are HUGE), smaller than a fullsized SUV & decent gas mileage all while spending under 30k. I LOVE this car. Still getting used to the differences between it and my Audi A4 (not fair to compare some things) but so far its been great. I expected a little better gas mileage for a 4 cylinder and disappointed that there were no options for V6, climate control or the 360 package (would be nice given the small back window) but that would have pushed the price into the 30s. Im nitpicking because so far I absolutely love it and am glad I chose this over a CRV. Great deals now (fully loaded under $26k, good financing)

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  Great Pathfinder replacement - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By dave - September 6 - 5:10 am

  Replaced a 2002 Pathfinder since its usually just me on the road for work or my wife and me on the weekends. I looked at the CR-V, the CX-7 and Rav4 but wasnt pleased with any of them. We happened to pull up next to what turned out to be a Rogue at a stoplight a few weeks ago. I now own a full-tilt model AWD SL. The interior, particularly the heated leather seats, is great. Ive had several Accord coupes in the past with wonderful leather interiors, and these are equals. Very smooth, great Bose sound. AWD feels solid.

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  Fun to Drive and listening Music - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Suresh Kesapragada - August 22 - 10:03 pm

  Driving new Nissan Rogue is very much fun. I would like to go for Bose speakers in Nissan Rogue but because of budget I could not. But still speakers quality is awesome and I enjoy listening music while driving. Back seat is very much comfortable and I could not feel this much comfort in CRV and RAV4. Of course I am missing arm rest in the back seat. I love the Nissan Rogue style and especially the alloy wheels and the muscular shape of the vehicle

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  I luv this vehicle - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By Mistakall - August 8 - 7:40 am

  I just purchased my Rouge yesterday 11/12/09 and I must say that im impressed with the ride as well as the quality and comfort of the vehicle, I test drove the Altima and took it home and found myself waking up 2:30am wishing I had purchased the Rouge instead so I called Nissan and they told me no problem bring the car back and we will find the Rouge that best suites you, I was so happy when I went back to the dealership and my Rouge was sitting there waiting for me, I test drove it and fell in love with it immediately so of course I slept like a baby last night..lol..I am going on a weekend on the town to put it to the full test but so far im loving it and all my friends love it as well.

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  Nissan Rogue SL AWD - A Great Find! - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By E. P. - August 7 - 6:50 pm

  I looked/drove many cars bfore this purchase - Forester, Matrix, Patriot, Compass, etc. I was so impressed with the Rogue. The fit, finish & interior is excellent. There is more driver room than my wifes Sienna. I was impressed with the mpg, standard airbags, vsc, and room. It drives smoothly, handles well in turns, and the front seats are very comfortable. Critics claim the cargo area is too small. I find it adequate. The Orange color gets much attention and looks great. I didnt get leather (first time ever) and am happy with the cloth. This product feels substantial and refined.

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  Very Impressed after 15K miles - 2011 Nissan Rogue
  By jmg1977 - July 28 - 10:10 pm

  This is actually my wifes car, but I am often "allowed" to drive it. We also use it on long trips from North Carolina to the midwest. Since purchased, it has had absolutely no problems or defects whatsoever, a first for any car I have ever purchased new. The fuel economy is excellent in city driving (25) and decent on the highway (30). Like the interior and exterior styling. Plenty of leg room, even in the back, for its size. Fit and finish is good, and it performs well for only having a 4 cylinder motor. I wouldnt hesitate to recommend it to someone looking for a good midsized SUV that gets sedan mileage.

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  Really like the Rogue - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By annwilltn - July 24 - 7:30 am

  Test drove the Mazda CX7, no power and weird steering. Love the Rogue, great get up and go. Had Xterra, it drives like a truck, now Im enjoying driving more. CX7 has extreme road noise, this one has a little but not very noticeable. Love the Bluetooth and moon roof. Would like a little more back space, but can make do. Back seat is fairly comfortable too. Highly recommend for someone wanting a smaller SUV with great gas mileage!

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  1000 miles so far - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By hphyslp - July 14 - 11:43 pm

  Sharp looking. Smooth ride. Good gas mileage for an SUV.

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  LOVE my new ride - 2016 Nissan Rogue
  By Rosandra Simmons - July 13 - 7:36 am

  This is the first new car Ive purchased in 10 years and I LOVE it. I had been driving a Honda CRV and the size is comparable, but my Rogue is much more sporty. Great mom vehicle without looking like one.

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  Love my new Rogue - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By New Roguer - June 25 - 5:56 pm

  I love my new Rogue! I have only had it for a few weeks but am in love! I was looking for a certain style and there was not a lot out there in my price range. I upgraded from an 11 year Altima and I am really enjoying the ride so far. I like being up higher than a standard car but didnt want anything too big and this is perfect! Definite blind spot but I can deal with it.