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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  Search Is Over - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By RogueBeliever - December 24 - 3:33 am

  Got the Gotham Gray with the premium package, splash guard, carpet. Love the ride, great brakes, comfortable seats and sounds! it definitely rocks. Paddle shifter is pretty cool too, adds zest to your driving. showed it to a couple of friends and thought it was an Infinity suv. They also loved the interior quality... luxurious at its class. Really happy with this purchase!

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  Rogue - great small SUV choice - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By srauhala - December 20 - 5:36 pm

  I have owned a 08 Rogue AWD SL w/ premium,leather, & moonroof for about 3 weeks now and I love it. Traded my 03 Ed B. Explorer to get something with better mpg. I have been getting around 27-29 mpg in mixed driving. My Explorer I was getting 19 mpg max. Love the "solid" feel, smooth CVT, smart key, Xenon headlights, Bose stereo, trunk organizer, interior quality is better than my Ford It can be hard to see out the back but it isnt too bad once you get used to it. I tilt the large side mirrors out a little further than I would have in the Explorer and it seems to work well. Reverse sensors would be nice though. Overall, very pleased. Great value for what you get

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  So far so good, but MPG is way off - 2014 Nissan Rogue
  By kelcon - December 18 - 1:12 pm

  We did countless hours of researching crossovers, compared all of the models and test drove a few. We fell in love with the Rogue after seeing the redesign and learning about all of the great standard safety features for such a reasonable price. We are going from a Prius to this, so the promised 29-33 MPG was a big selling point. Unfortunately... I have yet to get more than 25 MPG! (I bought the FWD version instead of the AWD to keep the MPG at the higher end... we are quite disappointed. We are hopeful that it will improve, but so far very disappointed.)

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  Review of my SUV Nissan Rogue - 2017 Nissan Rogue
  By Veenaye - December 16 - 4:33 am

  Test drive and make sure that there is no defect or issues on the vehicle before buying it.

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  Good riding car - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By nhfiddler - December 13 - 10:00 am

  We bought this car for the comfortable ride and awd as we live in NH. Gas mileage at hwy26 looked good also. So far on my daily commute at 45-50 mph it gets about 30 mph, at hwy speeds (65+) it does drop to 26. The ride is still very comfortable 4 months later. On our trip to DC this summer the 4 cyl engine has to work a bit to enter freeway traffic, but cruises well thereafter, an optional 6 cyl engine would be nice.

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  Do Not Buy This Car!!! - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By lmoris - December 11 - 11:19 am

  Ive had problems with my car for awhile now. When Im stopped, the entire car shutters, this also happens when I accelerate. My rpms also jump from 3-6 (Im not speeding)and when I let off the accelerator to slow down, my speed stays the same with my rpms going back and forth from 3-6. I called the dealership where I purchased the car and I was told that since my check engine light has NOT come on, they cant help me. They can look at it for $57.00 but the computer has not recognized any problems yet so there is not much they can do. Basically, drive it until you break down. Nice!! I called the corporate office and was told they stand behind what I was told by the dealership!!Fantastic

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  Rogue over CRV and RAV4 - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Lynn C. - December 7 - 3:23 pm

  I reviewed the CRV, RAV4 and Rogue. I owned a Honda for 10 yrs, my husband likes Toyota.I talked to people with Nissans and got good feedback. I LOVE my Rogue! I get 24.6 mpg. I love the heated seats. It is easy to maneuver in parking spaces and has great pick up on the highway. I tend to drive fast (75-80) and it doesnt shake or hesitate at that speed, runs smooth and relatively quiet. The Bose sound system is awesome. The only negative I have about the Rogue is the rear visibility. Its hard to see when backing up. The slant on the rear window, plus its small size makes it hard to see behind you. Im getting used to using the side mirrors. I recommend the Rogue!

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  Sorry we bought this!! - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Pat Evans - November 21 - 8:23 am

  We purchased this car thinking we would never have another new car since we are retired and getting old and wont be driving that many years. The wind noise in this car is so bad we cant talk. We have taken it back to dealer any number of times. First they said Nissan was working on the problems and to come back in a month, we did that, after 3 trips to dealership we are getting that is a characteristic of this car and nothing can be done about it. We are very unhappy with the way we have been treated. I am really not just an old woman trying to grip, we do have a problem and can not get any one to help us. All I can say dont buy a Nissan Rouge, it is a waste of good money.

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  Wish I would have bought the Murano - 2016 Nissan Rogue
  By Rick - November 10 - 8:15 am

  I guess everyone who drives a Rogue is Deaf. Thank the Lord this is my wifes car and I only have to ride/drive once in a while. Ive being trying to get my wife to trade it in from the time we brought it home. Road noise is terrible..........................

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  2016 nissan rogue SL - more changes please! - 2016 Nissan Rogue
  By BGF - November 10 - 5:24 am

  many positives on the 2016 nissan rogue ... size is perfect (184" long), descent ground clearance, excellent rear storage, sunroof is awesome on the SL trim. The styling of the 2016 rogue i prefer over all (toyota rav4, honda crv, kia sportage, ford escape) ... perf leather seats are very comfortable. usability of the roof rack is awesome! on the negative, heres the changes id like to see: 1. engine is a bit small ... still stay in the 2.5L but up the HP to 190 and TORQUE to 195 2. SL trim bring in ventilated front seats 3. flip rear glass on the rear hatch please (for us dog owners), and just plain old usability features for quick access to the rear 4. CVT ... internet is rampant nissan w/CVT failures ... i keep my vehicles for a LONG time (16+ years, 200k+ miles) ... there are too many internet posts w/regards to nissan CVT failures ... drop the CVT for the 7 speed transmission, or at least provide the option of a manual transmission