2008 Nissan Rogue
Based on analysis of 25 Rogue reviews and test drives.
Nissan Rogue - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Nissan Rogue ranks 14 out of 27 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 25 published reviews and test drives of the Nissan Rogue, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Rogue offers a relatively comfortable highway ride with plenty of interior space and some upscale touches for an affordable price. However, it doesn't offer the V6 power or proven reliability of many of its competitors, so it's ranked near the middle of its large class.
Our analysis shows that the new-for-2008 Nissan Rogue is a pleasant and functional highway cruiser. "On its first try, Nissan has produced a good-looking and spirited small SUV," says Car and Driver. "It doesn't have a third row or optional V-6 power, but there are plenty of small-SUV buyers who desire neither feature. The Rogue has the rest of the small-sport-ute checklist covered." Reviews say they love the Rogue's cargo versatility and economical sticker price. Competitors include the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 -- both longtime leaders in the compact SUV class. The Rogue ranks in the bottom half of the affordable crossover SUV class.
Beyond its low sticker price, the Rogue can boast good fuel economy. Its 22/27 mpg rating places it near the top of the compact SUV class -- an important cost consideration amid record gas prices.
The Rogue is available in two trims -- the base S and luxurious SL -- in either front- or all-wheel drive.
- "Without any real standout quality, the Rogue has a hard time making a case for itself in the panoply of competitors." -- Automobile Magazine
- "With prices starting under $20,000 for a base, front-drive S and topping out at roughly $26,000 for a loaded, all-wheel-drive SL with leather, sunroof, Bose audio, and Xenon headlamps, the Rogue should prove to be friendly on the wallet." -- Motor Trend
- "Overall, the Rogue is a fun, sporty and cool-looking compact crossover." -- Popular Mechanics
- "Bottom line: If you need rugged, off-road capability, get an Xterra. If you want a kinder, gentler station wagon that you don't have to call a station wagon, get the Rogue." -- Orlando Sentinel
Rogue Performance - 7.5 (Good)
Most test drivers are pleased with the 2008 Nissan Rogue's overall performance, and it falls near the top of its class in this category despite the fact that some dislike its gearless transmission or find its four-cylinder engine lacking. "Highway cruising is where the Rogue and its transmission work best," says Car and Driver. "Secure on-center steering feel, a firm but compliant ride, and a quiet cabin combine to effortlessly count down highway miles." Continue with our full Performance Review to learn why some reviewers dislike the Rogue's Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). continue
Rogue Exterior - 6.7 (Mediocre)
The curvy styling of the 2008 Nissan Rogue gets mixed reviews, leading to a score near the bottom of its class. "The look is hip-unlike some in the class that tend to look a little bloated (we're not going to name any names)," says Popular Mechanics. "The only downside to this taut, sporty bodywork is that the rear window is so small as to compromise visibility." Continue with our full Exterior Review to learn what some of the Rogue's critics say about its design, or check out our Photo Gallery to see it for yourself. continue
Rogue Interior - 7.8 (Good)
Reviews generally find the five-seat interior of the 2008 Nissan Rogue to be comfortable, functional and upscale, and it ranks near the top of its class. Automobile Magazine notes, "The judicious use of padded surfaces and some nice graining on the dash and door panels offset the cheap plastic on the console. Overall, the interior is not a bad place to be." Continue with our Interior Review to learn about the Rogue's excellent interior storage spaces -- including an optional rear pop-up storage system -- or check out our interior photos. continue
Rogue Safety - 9.5 (Excellent)
The brand-new 2008 Nissan Rogue gets an excellent safety score and does very well in federal government crash tests. A big plus is that all available safety features come standard. Continue with our full Safety Review to learn more about the Rogue's safety equipment, which includes Vehicle Dynamic Control and a Traction Control System. continue
Rogue Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Nissan Rogue reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Rogue comes with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. Continue with our full Reliability Review. continue
