Compact crossover buyers have plenty of models to choose from these days. Nissan’s Rogue distinguishes itself with robust, shapely styling and, despite modest external dimensions, a choice of either five- or seven-passenger seating.
With a Rogue in upper trim levels, you also get access to sophisticated safety technologies that are typically reserved for more expensive vehicles.
What's New for 2016
Blind-spot warning has been updated from camera- to radar-based technology. SL models add Nissan connect services. SiriusXM radio and Siri Eyes Free have been added to the SL model and the SV Premium Package, while the SL Premium Package gains forward emergency braking. Body-colored mirrors in the S Appearance Package now have integrated turn signals.
Choosing Your Nissan Rogue
Like most crossovers of its size, the Rogue is front-drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option. Every Rogue contains a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 170 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque, mating with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Fuel economy is estimated at 26 mpg city/33 mpg highway with front-drive, or 25/32 mpg with all-wheel drive.
The available third row boosts seating capacity to seven, which is a rarity in this class. Although the rearmost seats are really best for children, like many others, the sliding (and reclining) second row can help keep riders from getting too cramped. With rear seats folded down, the Rogue is ready to handle up to 70 cubic feet of cargo. That’s about as good as it gets for a compact crossover.
The Rogue is offered in three trim levels, each with its own option packages, with front-drive or all-wheel drive (which adds $1,350 to each price):
Get your price on a Nissan Rogue »
Read our review on the Nissan Rogue »
Because the price difference between the base S and mid-level SV is only $1,450, we can't think of a compelling reason to choose the S. In fact, there's a strong case for jumping straight to the SL, which comes in at just under the $30,000 mark (plus destination charge), even with all-wheel drive. If you’re seeking even better gas mileage, a new Rogue Hybrid is expected during 2016.