First introduced for 2008, the Rogue is entirely carlike and makes no claims to be an off-road vehicle, or to be especially rugged. On the outside, the Rogue looks a little more like a higher-riding wagon, and a little less like SUVs. It ends up looking like its larger, more luxurious sibling, the Murano, in some respects, yet its more slab-sided look and almost vanlike rear design can make it feel a bit more utilitarian. A minor refresh hasn't changed its looks in any essential way.
The only drivetrain offered on the Rogue combines a 170-horsepower, four-cylinder engine and a continuously variable transmission (CVT), though it can be had with either front- or all-wheel drive. As such, the Rogue can move quite quickly if you need it, but it isn't particularly inspiring to drive. Some Rogues get steering-wheel paddles that might improve the experience somewhat on hilly or curvy roads.
Through the 2013 model year, the Rogue has been based on the same underpinnings as the Sentra sedan, but it doesn't take full advantage of the Sentra's chassis; handling is also more on the soft side, though, and it's clear that the focus for the Rogue is on affordable, economical, and comfortable transportation for small families, and for those looking for a low-cost sedan or minivan replacement.
To that degree, the Rogue fits the bill. There's room for five inside, though three adults will have to rub shoulders a bit in the back row; the back seats can also adjust for rake—for best comfort, or to help fit cargo, and when needed the back seats fold flat. There's also a very useful cargo organizer. Ride comfort is pretty impressive, and the Rogue doesn't have the choppy, pitchy feel that sometimes plagues taller, shorter vehicles; however, the interior isn't that well insulated from road noise. Fuel economy, at up to 23 mpg city, 28 highway, is quite good, and from the experience of our editors you're likely to see the high end of that in most combined driving.
Affordability and features for the money is again a compelling reason to consider the Rogue. Cruise control and a nice audio system with steering-wheel controls are standard, and the SL presents options like leather seats, Bluetooth, and the Intelligent Key system. Fully loaded, the Rogue manages a bottom line under $30k.
Recent model years have brought only slight equipment and option changes. For 2010, a new 360 Value Package brought alloy wheels, a chrome grille, and other extras to the base S model, while a Krom appearance package gives the whole aftermarket accessorized look—showy wheels, sporty center exhaust, tinted glass, and all. A very mild makeover came in the 2011 model year; otherwise for 2013 options were fine-tuned to bring a new Premium Edition (replacing the Premium Package) with front fog lamps and Bose audio. A Bluetooth hands-free interface remained optional on base S models but included in the rest of the model line.
http://www.thecarconnection.com/cars/nissan_rogue#mainReview
