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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  Excellent and fun to drive! - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Hawks Rogue - February 18 - 1:46 pm

  The Rogue is a very fun to drive crossover SUV. Bose system. Smooth and refined. Good handling. Strong brakes. Swift 4 cylinder, the Rogue is faster than all 4cyl SUVs. Good fuel economy. Excellent build quality. Decent quality interior. Fat steering wheel with controls. Over 15,000 miles and absolutely no issues. Quiet. Its so smooth running, almost mimicking an electric motor.

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  Most comfortable in its class - 2017 Nissan Rogue
  By Tyler N - February 17 - 7:55 pm

  Moving from a FWD Ford Focus 2012 to a 2017 AWD Rogue was a great decision! I tried the MX5, Escape, CRV and RAV4. The Rogue was by far the most comfortable and quiet. If youre someone that isnt concerned about 0 to 60 in 4 seconds and is looking for a vehicle that is fun to drive, comfortable, roomy and loaded with tech...this is your pick! The Rogue has the best tech features. the 7 inch display is nice at the SV level. Be sure to go with the Premium package and you get the best bang for your buck. You dont get the adjusting cruise control and lane assist (thats only on the SL) but you do get Blind Side Warning and full navigation. Im almost 2 months into driving this and Im still excited every time I get in. It handles excellent in the snow and the ambient sound in the cabin is almost non existent. I usually drive this in ECO mode and have been getting about 27 MPG which is lower than advertised but I feel as though that is always the case. Ive been getting about 30 on the highway. I bought the 6 year 100K warranty and should be in good shape, though Im not anticipating anything going wrong. I will continue to update!

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  Best Car in its Class - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Vijay Yadlapati - January 30 - 3:00 pm

  After doing extensive research before I decided to purchase the Rogue, I found that the Rogue costs less, has more room, has a better engine, looks better, and has better fuel economy than other cars in its class such as the Honda CRV. After test driving both cars, it was very clear to me that the Rogue was much more superior than the CRV in almost every category you can think of. I am very happy with my purchase!

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  2011 brand new - 2011 Nissan Rogue
  By sghill1 - January 26 - 2:56 am

  Purchased the car today (10-14-11) with 100 miles on it. Off the lot for 22,000. 3,000 less than Honda, Toyota and 5k less than Subaru. Pretty well equiped and gives a great ride. "Rubber band" transmission runs very well at 75 mph on the freeway.

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  SO-SO - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By Paul - January 24 - 3:23 am

  Bought a 2010 S AWD with 360 package at the end of February...just hit 2500 miles. The negatives: the engine revs a bit when you first start the car, and seems to be working awfully hard at lower speeds when youre accelerating (up over 3000rpm). It settles down once you reach freeway speeds and cruises quite comfortably at 75. Acceleration is lacking. I always feel like Im pushing it to get it to respond, especially city driving. Im 61" and the drivers seat rides a little high...not adjustable. The material on the seats doesnt look like its going to wear very well...already ballooning in places. Positives: Its great in the snow, looks nice and didnt cost nearly as much as a Murano!

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  I love my Rogue - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By Jennifer - January 19 - 10:13 am

  I love my Rogue so much. I waited for a year until my lease was up to get this vehicle. It is my first SUV and I could not be happier. I got all the features that I wanted from the Wicked Black paint to the Leather seats and AWD. It makes me happy every time I get into it and take off down the road.

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  SO HAPPY!! - 2011 Nissan Rogue
  By laurenxsaysx - January 10 - 2:28 pm

  I love my nissan. It has way more to offer for the price than the chev equinox. You definitely want the backup camara, it helps out a lot. Its prefect for my family. I have 2 large dogs whom fit just right in the hatchback space (a third medium dog fits too). A lot of legroom in the backseats (which fold down flat). If i could do it all over again, i would still buy this car but i would pay more for the AWD. The stock tires handle well in snow and rain from my past experience with a kia. However, rogue is very light weight so the wind can push it around pretty easily. I get 23 MPG city and 29-30 mpg highway.

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  Good little Truck! - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By SwimmerMan - January 9 - 12:03 pm

  Found this truck/crossover by accident when I walked out of a Jeep dealership in disgust (with their salespeople & products). Never even heard of a Rogue before. Drive it and it felt more solid than a CRV & Forester. The engine is refined and Nissan tweaked the trans in case of any issue. no problems with 15,000 miles on it. It is GREAT in the snow and great in bad conditions such as rain. Great gas mileage 30 highway average (on par smaller cars: Suzuki & Toyota Matrix). The small hatch is the sacrifice for the good gas mileage but the seats fold down. The car makes me feel confident on the road. It does not feel light weight and with 5 star crash ratings. The interior is well laid out.

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  Solid Crossover SUV - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By Vince B. - January 7 - 12:53 am

  This is a solid crossover. Its not super fancy or a high-performance car, but its not intended to be either. The ride is smooth and the SL premium features are convenient. I like the bright headlights and fig lights. This is a good vehicle for someone that wants AWD and an SUV feel while still getting decent fuel mileage and car- like handling.

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  Just ok - 2017 Nissan Rogue
  By Kenny c - December 31 - 4:30 pm

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