Is Nissan Rogue A Good Car?

Buying a new vehicle is a significant investment, so it’s crucial to do your research and ensure you’re making the right choice. With so many options available in the compact SUV segment, it can be challenging to determine which one suits your needs and preferences the best. The Nissan Rogue has been a popular choice among buyers seeking a practical, comfortable, and feature-packed SUV. But is the Nissan Rogue a good car?

The short answer is yes, the Nissan Rogue is a good car for most buyers, offering a well-rounded package with a spacious interior, decent performance, and a long list of standard features. However, like any vehicle, it has its strengths and weaknesses, which we’ll explore in detail.

Today, we are going to take an in-depth look at various aspects of the Nissan Rogue to help you determine if it’s the right fit for you. We’ll cover topics such as reliability, safety, performance, interior quality, technology, and value for money. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of whether the Nissan Rogue deserves a spot on your shortlist or if you should explore other options.

Table of Contents

Nissan Rogue Overview

The Nissan Rogue is a compact SUV that has been in production since 2007. Over the years, it has undergone several redesigns and updates, with the current generation debuting in 2020. For the 2024 model year, the Rogue has received a mild refresh, including updated exterior styling, a larger infotainment screen, and some new tech features.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue is available in four trim levels: S, SV, SL, and Platinum. The base S model starts at around $28,000, while the top-of-the-line Platinum trim can reach close to $40,000 when fully loaded. This pricing puts the Rogue in line with other popular compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape.

Reliability and Longevity

One of the most critical factors to consider when buying a car is its reliability and longevity. According to J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study, the Nissan Rogue has scored slightly below average in recent years, suggesting that it may not be the most dependable choice in its class.

However, it’s worth noting that reliability can vary from model year to model year, and proper maintenance plays a significant role in a vehicle’s longevity. Nissan recommends following the scheduled maintenance guidelines outlined in the owner’s manual to ensure your Rogue runs smoothly for years to come.

Some common issues reported by Rogue owners include transmission problems, faulty fuel gauges, and issues with the sunroof and air conditioning system. It’s essential to stay on top of any recalls or technical service bulletins issued by Nissan to address these potential problems.

Safety Ratings and Features

When it comes to safety, the Nissan Rogue has performed well in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The 2024 model has earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and has been named a Top Safety Pick+ by IIHS, which is the highest honor awarded by the organization.

The Rogue comes standard with a host of advanced safety features, including:

Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
Blind spot monitoring
Rear cross-traffic alert
Lane departure warning
High beam assist

Higher trim levels also offer additional safety technologies like Nissan’s ProPilot Assist semi-autonomous driving system, which can automatically steer, brake, and accelerate the vehicle under certain conditions.

While the Rogue’s safety ratings and features are impressive, it’s always a good idea to prioritize defensive driving and follow all traffic laws and safety guidelines.

Performance and Driving Experience

Under the hood, the 2024 Nissan Rogue is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine that produces 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and comes standard with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available as an option.

In terms of acceleration, the Rogue isn’t the quickest in its class, but its turbocharged engine provides enough power for most daily driving situations. According to Car and Driver’s testing, the Rogue can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 8 seconds, which is about average for the compact SUV segment.

While the Rogue’s performance is adequate, it’s not particularly exciting or engaging to drive. The steering feels numb, and the handling is competent but uninspiring. However, the Rogue shines when it comes to ride quality, offering a comfortable and compliant ride, even over rough roads.

Fuel efficiency is one area where the Rogue excels. With front-wheel drive, the Rogue is rated at 30 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway, according to EPA estimates. These figures are among the best in the compact SUV class and can help you save money at the gas pump.

Interior and Cargo Space

One of the Nissan Rogue’s strongest selling points is its spacious and well-designed interior. The cabin feels airy and modern, with high-quality materials and a simple yet attractive layout. Even the base model comes well-equipped, with features like a 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration.

Front-seat occupants will appreciate the comfortable and supportive seats, while rear passengers enjoy ample legroom and headroom, even for taller adults. The Rogue’s square-shaped interior also translates to a generous cargo area, with 31.6 cubic feet of space behind the second row and up to 74.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.

Higher trim levels offer additional interior amenities like a panoramic sunroof, quilted semi-aniline leather upholstery, and a tri-zone automatic climate control system.

Technology and Infotainment

The Nissan Rogue comes well-equipped in the technology department, even at the base level. The standard infotainment system features an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and satellite radio. Higher trims offer a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen with built-in navigation and a Google-based operating system.

While the infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive, some critics have noted that the graphics and overall design feel slightly dated compared to some of the Rogue’s competitors.

In addition to the infotainment system, the Rogue offers several other tech features, such as a digital instrument cluster, head-up display, wireless charging pad, and a surround-view camera system.

Value and Ownership Costs

When it comes to value, the Nissan Rogue strikes a good balance between features, comfort, and affordability. While it may not be the cheapest option in the compact SUV segment, the Rogue offers a lot of bang for your buck, especially when you consider its spacious interior, standard safety features, and decent fuel economy.

According to Edmunds, the average price paid for a new Nissan Rogue in 2023 was around $31,000, which is competitive with other top-selling compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.

In terms of ownership costs, the Rogue is relatively affordable to maintain and operate. Fuel expenses should be reasonable thanks to its decent fuel economy ratings, and Nissan offers a competitive warranty package, including a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

FAQs About the Nissan Rogue

Is the Nissan Rogue a good car for families?

Yes, the Nissan Rogue is an excellent choice for families. Its spacious interior, ample cargo space, and long list of standard safety features make it a practical and family-friendly SUV. The available tri-zone automatic climate control and rear-seat entertainment systems further enhance its appeal for young children.

How does the Rogue perform in different weather conditions?

The Nissan Rogue performs reasonably well in various weather conditions, thanks to its available all-wheel-drive system and a suite of safety features. The all-wheel-drive system helps provide better traction and stability on slippery surfaces, making it a capable choice for driving in snowy or rainy conditions.

However, it’s important to note that the Rogue is not designed for off-road adventures or extreme weather conditions. Its ground clearance and approach/departure angles are not as impressive as dedicated off-road vehicles, limiting its capabilities in deep snow or rugged terrain.

What are the best and worst years for the Nissan Rogue?

While the Nissan Rogue has generally been a reliable and well-received vehicle, some model years have been better than others. According to various expert reviews and owner reports, the best years for the Nissan Rogue are:

2017: This model year received fewer complaints and had fewer reported issues compared to previous generations.
2019-2024: The current generation of the Rogue, introduced in 2020, has been praised for its improved design, updated technology, and overall refinement.

On the other hand, the worst years for the Nissan Rogue are considered to be:

2008-2013: These early model years of the Rogue were plagued by numerous issues, including transmission problems, engine troubles, and electrical gremlins.
2014-2016: While an improvement over the previous generation, these model years still had their fair share of reliability concerns, particularly with the continuously variable transmission (CVT).

It’s essential to note that these are general guidelines, and individual experiences may vary. Proper maintenance and care can significantly extend a vehicle’s lifespan, regardless of the model year.

Is the Rogue good for long road trips?

The Nissan Rogue can be an excellent choice for long road trips, thanks to its comfortable interior, ample cargo space, and decent fuel efficiency. The spacious cabin and supportive seats help reduce fatigue during extended drives, while the generous cargo area can accommodate all your luggage and travel essentials.

Additionally, the Rogue’s impressive fuel economy ratings (up to 37 mpg on the highway) can help you save money on gas and reduce the number of pit stops required during your journey.

However, it’s worth noting that the Rogue’s ride quality and noise isolation could be better compared to some of its competitors. Long highway drives may expose occupants to more road and wind noise than desired.

How does the Rogue compare to other compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4?

The Nissan Rogue is a strong contender in the competitive compact SUV segment, but it faces stiff competition from vehicles like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. Here’s a quick comparison:

Interior Space: The Rogue offers a slightly more spacious interior and cargo area compared to the CR-V and RAV4, making it a better choice for families or those who need extra room.
Performance: Both the CR-V and RAV4 offer more powerful engine options and a more engaging driving experience compared to the Rogue’s adequate but uninspiring performance.
Fuel Efficiency: The Rogue has a slight edge when it comes to fuel efficiency, boasting higher EPA estimates than its Honda and Toyota counterparts.
Safety and Technology: All three vehicles offer a comprehensive suite of safety features and modern tech amenities, but the CR-V and RAV4 may have a slight advantage in terms of overall refinement and user experience.
Value: The Rogue is generally more affordable than the CR-V and RAV4, making it a better value proposition for budget-conscious buyers.

Ultimately, the choice between these three compact SUVs will depend on your specific priorities and preferences. It’s advisable to test drive each one and carefully evaluate your needs before making a decision.

In Conclusion

The Nissan Rogue is a compelling choice in the compact SUV segment, offering a well-rounded package that caters to a wide range of buyers. Its spacious interior, ample cargo space, impressive safety ratings, and long list of standard features make it a practical and family-friendly option.

While the Rogue may not be the most exciting vehicle to drive or the most luxurious in its class, it strikes a good balance between affordability, comfort, and efficiency. Its decent performance, impressive fuel economy, and competitive pricing make it a great value proposition for those seeking a reliable and capable daily driver.

However, it’s essential to consider that the Rogue faces stiff competition from other well-established compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape. Each of these vehicles has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s crucial to evaluate your specific needs and priorities before making a decision.

Ultimately, the Nissan Rogue is a solid choice for those seeking a practical, comfortable, and feature-packed compact SUV that won’t break the bank. With its well-rounded nature and impressive value proposition, the Rogue is undoubtedly a good car that deserves consideration from buyers in the market for a new compact SUV.