• Overall
• Prices
• Performance
• Exterior
• Interior
• Safety
• Reliability
• Photos & Videos

Nissan Rogue - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 Nissan Rogue ranks 16 out of 21 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 32 published reviews and test drives of the Nissan Rogue, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Introduced in 2008, the Nissan Rogue is a decent value within its class. Its pleasant on-pavement ride, great cargo versatility, better-than-average fuel economy and affordable price trump many class competitors and make it worth a look. Still, without a V6 engine option, it falls short on power.

With a sticker price just over $20,000, the five-passenger Rogue is one of the more affordable compact SUVs. Its 22/27 mpg rating also places it in the top half of its class for fuel economy. Though its value makes it a good choice for families, there are even cheaper and more efficient options available.

Value-seekers, for example, should check out the Jeep Patriot (which offers off-road capabilities) and Compass, which cost less than $19,000 and boast 23/28 mpg ratings. Unfortunately, like the Rogue, these don't offer V6 engines. For more power, consider the Toyota RAV4, Kia Sorento and Dodge Nitro, all of which offer V6s. Remember, however, that you'll have to spend a bit more (at least $21,000), and fuel economy won't be as good. "Overall, Rogue's competitors are quieter and more refined, but this compact Nissan gets points for sleek styling and high levels of interior functionality," says Consumer Guide. "If you can live with Rogue's sometimes harsh ride, this little Nissan might make sense."

The only addition the Rogue sees for 2010 is a 360 Value Package for the base model. It adds exterior features including a chrome grille, rear spoiler and 16-inch alloy wheels. The new model is priced only $120 more than the 2009 Rogue. However, if you can live without these styling updates, it may make more sense to buy a 2009 model. You could snag a discount as dealers scramble to make way for 2010s on their lots. Be sure to check out this month's Nissan Deals to see if any discounts or incentives are available on the Rogue.

The Rogue is available in two trims -- the base S and upscale SL -- in either front- or all-wheel drive.

• "On its first try, Nissan has produced a good-looking and spirited small SUV. 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." -- Car and Driver
• "Without any real standout quality, the Rogue has a hard time making a case for itself in the panoply of competitors." -- Automobile Magazine
• "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
• "The Rogue just barely manages to meet our performance expectations for a crossover SUV in its price range, and falls short when it comes to cabin tech." -- CNET

Rogue Performance - 7.8 (Good)

Test drivers are relatively pleased with the 2010 Nissan Rogue's overall performance, although its gearless transmission and underpowered engine detract from the praise. "Rogue is adequate from a stop and around town, but it's slow to build power needed for highway passing or hill climbs," says Consumer Guide. "The transmission is generally responsive to driver inputs for more power, though it puts up a noisy fuss when doing so."  On the plus side is the Rogue's fuel economy, which is excellent for its class.  Read More

Rogue Exterior - 7.1 (Good)

The 2010 Nissan Rogue's curvy styling gets a mixed reception. Some say it looks too much like others in its class, while others like its conventional look. "For an entry-level crossover, quite frankly it looks athletic and stylish," says Automobile.com. "The Rogue is almost the spitting image of its bigger sibling, the upscale Murano."  Read More

Rogue Interior - 7.9 (Good)

The 2010 Nissan Rogue's cabin is comfortable, upscale and provides plenty of versatile cargo space. "If the CR-V sets the standard for lavish interiors in this segment, the Rogue matches it," says MSN. The materials are especially high-quality for the Rogue's affordable price. Also on the plus side is the Rogue's excellent optional rear pop-up storage system.  Read More

Rogue Safety - 9.4 (Excellent)

The 2010 Nissan Rogue does very well in federal government and insurance industry crash tests. A big plus is that nearly all available safety features come standard.  Read More

Rogue Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)

The 2010 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.  Read More