December 2007
2008 Nissan Rogue SL AWD SUV: First Drive
Refreshing, all-new compact SUV challenges Honda and Toyota
For years Nissan has lacked a small car-based SUV in its lineup to compete with the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. (Nissan offered
such a model, called the X-Trail, in other countries including Canada, and currently sells the truck-based Xterra here.) The
new Rogue finally fills the hole. It is based on the Sentra small sedan but employs the powertrain used in the larger, four-cylinder
Altima family sedan. It is offered in front- or all-wheel drive and comes in two trim levels, S and SL. Prices start at $20,000.
We bought an AWD SL for $25,820.
Initial impressions. The Rogue stays true to the definition of a small SUV. It offers a pleasant ride and responsive handling, relatively refined powertrain, and decent space in a right-sized package. Some of us have nicknamed it the "mini Murano."
The 170-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is adequate to move the Rogue. It emits a typical four-cylinder sound but the sound
isn't objectionable. It's relatively civilized and revs smoothly. The continuously variable transmission, which Nissan has
been using widely, works well. Our SL had the optional paddle shifters that allow you to mimic a conventional automatic that's
manually shifted through six predetermined ratios. Some of us thought it was frivolous, while some thought it added interest
and driving involvement. We've been getting about 23 mpg overall so far, according to the trip computer.
Handling is nimble, with a prompt turn-in response and restrained body lean. But the steering feels somewhat vague and overly light at low speed. The ride is compliant and appropriately controlled. The cabin is reasonably quiet.
The Rogue's soft-touch dashboard is well constructed and looks substantial. Most controls are logically placed, but the mirror
control is a bit hard to find at first and fussy to operate. Our SL came with luxurious amenities such as keyless ignition,
Bluetooth compatibility, and satellite radio.
The front seats are reasonably comfortable. The back seat is decent considering the compact dimensions, but it is too narrow for a comfortable position in the center. Rear visibility is hampered by a small rear quarter window. The rear gate is easy to lift and close. The front passenger seat back folds to facilitate carrying long items.
CR's take: While the Rogue may be a late entry into the car-based small-SUV field, it is nonetheless refreshing with its compact size and cute disposition.
Discuss Nissan in the Cars forum.
Initial impressions. The Rogue stays true to the definition of a small SUV. It offers a pleasant ride and responsive handling, relatively refined powertrain, and decent space in a right-sized package. Some of us have nicknamed it the "mini Murano."
Handling is nimble, with a prompt turn-in response and restrained body lean. But the steering feels somewhat vague and overly light at low speed. The ride is compliant and appropriately controlled. The cabin is reasonably quiet.
The front seats are reasonably comfortable. The back seat is decent considering the compact dimensions, but it is too narrow for a comfortable position in the center. Rear visibility is hampered by a small rear quarter window. The rear gate is easy to lift and close. The front passenger seat back folds to facilitate carrying long items.
CR's take: While the Rogue may be a late entry into the car-based small-SUV field, it is nonetheless refreshing with its compact size and cute disposition.
Discuss Nissan in the Cars forum.
