Nissan keeps things pretty simple with powertrain options for the Rogue. All versions are powered by a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine making 170 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque, which Nissan claims is tops in its class. Nissan mates that engine to an efficient Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), and front-wheel drive versions of the Rogue ultimately average 26 mpg and 33 mpg in city and highway driving.
The Rogue is available in three trims, S, SV and the top-of-the-line SL. All-wheel drive is an option on any of the three trims and adds about $1,300 to the price of the vehicle.
The base model Rogue S is more Spartan than other versions, but is still equipped with plenty of nice features. Air conditioning, cruise control, power door locks and power windows are all generally expected these days and all are present. However, more upscale items that come standard on the S include Bluetooth connectivity, a 5-inch color screen, iPod connectivity, LED daytime running lights and illuminated audio controls on the steering wheel.
The mid-grade SV adds to the S with 17-inch wheels, push-button ignition and intelligent key, automatic dual-zone climate control, a 6-way power adjustable driver's seat, NissanConnect app service, Sirius satellite radio, automatic headlights and roof rails.
The top SL trim comes with everything from the SV plus 18-inch wheels, fog lamps, heated outside mirrors with turn signal indicators, leather upholstery on the seats, steering wheel and shift knob, a 7-inch touchscreen and navigation system, heated front seats, a Bose 9-speaker sound system, a power rear liftgate and Nissan's Around View Monitor, which uses cameras to give a 360-degree composite view of everything around the vehicle. A power moonroof is optional.
Numerous safety systems come standard on the Rogue, including anti-lock brakes, traction control and stability control. A rear backup camera is also standard across all models. Optional safety items include the Around View Monitor, as well as blind spot, forward collision, lane departure and moving object detection systems.
Affordable
High-tech Features
Optional Third Row Seating
Available All-wheel Drive
The Rogue SL trim gets several notable enhancements for 2016. A forward emergency braking system has been added to help prevent accidents, while NissanConnect Services are also now standard on the SL. In addition, a Siri Eyes Free now comes with both SL trimmed Rogues as well as the Rogue SV when equipped with the Premium Package.
The Nissan Rogue is a small SUV/crossover, offering a more car-like driving experience than the more hard-core Nissan Xterra. This puts the Rogue in direct competition with vehicles such as the Toyota RAV4 and the Honda CR-V, two vehicles with several generations and years of success under their belts. In order to remain competitive, Nissan has equipped the Rogue with a bevy of features and some very reasonable base prices. The Rogue starts at just over $23,000, while even the top trim model with all-wheel drive can be had for under $30,000. With available three-row seating, the Rogue is possibly one of the most versatile vehicles available at such a low price.
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