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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  Amazing Car for the money - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Really nice car - June 17 - 9:10 pm

  My wife and I traded down from a 2003 Murano (which we loved) to the Rogue for added gas mileage. Really was not too much of a compromise in features and comfort. Although slightly smaller, all of the features of the SL are similar to the base model of the Murano SL. The Rogue has impressive power for a 4 cyl. The interior has all of the options that you need in a car an none of the costly items like GPS,dual temp controlas and DVD. Surprisingly the gas mileage estimates are accurate for our driving style. Truly Nissan has created a veicle that is fun and affordable. Really worth the money.

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  The Murano killer - 2017 Nissan Rogue
  By Michael Lewis - May 29 - 5:09 pm

  Traded in a 2012 Murano Platinum for a Rouge SL awd with all three option packages. We just wanted a new car with better gas mileage. The Murano was the best car we have ever owned. No complaints at all really, but our new rogue surprises me all the time with its performance and quality. Took me a long time to realize that I dont need a V 6. I keep hearing that the Rouge is under powered and doesnt handle well compared to some of its competition. Could have fooled me! I dont feel that way at all. Love it on the road and love it in town. We have the high end of the rogue line and the safety features are really a welcome addition to our daily driving. All the safety features of a more prestigious and much more expensive SUV, and we love the Monarch Orange color we choose. Couldnt be happier!

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  Great car, everything I need. - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By sirbikesalot - May 22 - 5:50 pm

  This is my fourth Nissan after having owned a Stanza, Maxima, and Xterra. I traded in my 2000 XTerra and bought the Rogue after test driving it. It handles great, very comfortable (I am 6-2"), and quiet inside. I got the AWD in wicked black with no other options. It meets all my needs, except for one that I need to wait for - a Class 3 tow hitch with the 2" receiver for my hitch-mounted bike rack. Its a little smaller than the Xterra but I wont miss it and I certainly wont miss the poor gas mileage of the Xterra. All my Nissans have been super reliable and I expect no less from this car.

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  Sold on Rogue - 2015 Nissan Rogue
  By forevernissan - May 21 - 7:03 pm

  After owning a 2010 Murano SL for five years, I waited until the new body style to come out, convinced that was my next vehicle. After driving the new Murano SL, I realized it was bigger than the previous model and sat lower. As an empty nester, all the space didnt justify the high price. Drove the Rogue and realized it was the perfect fit for me. All the same bells and whistles for $10,000 less plus way better fuel economy than the V6 Murano - already averaging 28 mpg after two months.

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  What a snow car - 2011 Nissan Rogue
  By bohunk49 - May 4 - 9:08 am

  As a retired professional truck driver I have drive numerous cars and trucks over the years, but never on that has handled as well in the snow. With 5 men and their luggage we went over the mountain pass when chains or all wheel drive were required. No problem with power or traction. We passed everything on the road. We saw at least a dozen 4 wheel drive vehicles and 18 wheelers in the ditch. It cut through the deep heavy slush without a problem. Its too crowded in the back seat with 3 adults. but 2 adults and a child would be ok.

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  Rogue SL: It WILL Be Hot! - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By MHmidhudson - April 26 - 11:40 pm

  I picked it up on October 1. Today is Nov. 13, and its got 2450 miles on it already. Gets 23-24 mpg locally, hilly terrain in the Hudson valley; 29 mpg at a steady 60-65 mph on the road! Never have owned a vehicle that sticks to the road like this one does. What theyve already said about Bluetooth and Bose is echoed here: THEY ROCK. This is my next "best car Ive ever owned", a title that my 06 Frontier still holds.

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  great buy for a crossover SUV - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By Ken - April 25 - 3:30 am

  Love everything about the car especially the leg & headroom. The seats are comfortable. Acceleration is smooth and it does not feel like a 4 cylinder. Used to own a Rav4 and this car definitely feels better. The speaker sound quality is awesome. The downside is the rear seat not being able to recline. This is a good buy @ $16,990 + tax + title + dealer destination.

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  Great with one catch! - 2016 Nissan Rogue
  By Jlphoto - April 15 - 8:43 am

  I bought this car for its combination of features, value, performance. So far very happy with almost every aspect of the vehicle. It rides well, quiet, great fuel economy, lots of great technology and those Zero Gravity seats are VERY comfortable. It looks great and I love the panoramic sunroof.....awesome. The only issue I am having is a creaking noise in the front right strut tower when you turn the streering wheel at slow speeds. My Nissan dealer said Nissan is aware of it and working on a fix. I will admit to being a bit OCD about noises in my vehicles. I REALLY hope they come up with a fix soon otherwise i will have to trade it in sooner than I want to. I would be curious if other Rogue owners have been having this issue. But as I said, other than that issue, love the car!

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  Buy one too! - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Happy in Ohio - April 12 - 12:00 pm

  Just purchased on Sat, and love it. I was looking for something smaller, better gas mileage (have Toyota Highlander, which is a great SUV too). The Rogue looks impressive, and it is fun to drive, handles beautifully. I bought the Silver Ice, SL AWD, leather, premium package and moonroof. Im looking for driving around town! Im very happy with my purchase.

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  AS PRACTICAL AS YOU CAN GET.... - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By weena09 - March 31 - 5:50 am

  We love the Rogue - very comfortable for longs drives, lots of leg room, large trunk space (great for pets, groceries and luggage). We definitely recommend a sunroof because it makes the interior feel more spacious. Great on gas, safe in snow/icey conditions, overall very reliable and practical crossover SUV! Cheaper to buy 1-2 years used then to lease new :)