Nissan has hit a home run with its Rogue, compact SUV that seats five.
In fact, it has been the Japanese automaker’s top-selling nameplate both in 2017 and last year.
It comes in Rogue and Rogue Sport models, in three well-equipped trim levels: S, SV and SL, all with the choice of all-wheel or front-wheel drive. Hybrid versions are also available. My tester was the SL front-wheeler with a Monarch Orange Metallic coat of paint that brightened even the dreariest of winter days.
Details help set the Nissan Rogue apart. Two worthy-of-note examples are the rear doors that open extra wide (77 degrees), to making getting in and out of the vehicle a breeze. Another is a motion-activated lift gate that makes life easy for everyday use or family adventure getaways.
Powered by a 2.5-liter, DOHC I-4 engine mated to an Xtronic CVT automatic transmission, the pair generates 170-horsepower and 175 lb.-ft. of torque. That was plenty of power for quick acceleration or climbing grades, yet with enough efficiency to receive a 33-miles-per-gallon EPA rating down the highway.
The top-of-the-line SL was loaded with standard features to provide comfort and convenience at every turn. It also included two options: A premium package ($1,820) and a platinum reserve interior ($250). The premium package added a power panoramic sunroof and LED headlights. The platinum package added tan leather seats with special quilted leather inserts and upgraded trim.
Rogue offers progressive, emotive exterior styling. The Nissan signature V-Motion grille and headlights with LED signature daytime running lights help enhance Rogue’s robust presence. Other Rogue exterior highlights include 19-inch alloy wheels, body-color heated outside mirrors with integrated turn signals, a rear spoiler, privacy glass and roof rails.
But it’s inside where the Rogue really shines. Both front seats are heated and adjustable; the driver has 8-way with lumbar support, the passenger receives four-way control. Creature comforts include Bose premium audio with nine speakers, Apple
CarPlay, USB ports, Bluetooth, dual-zone air conditioning, intelligent cruise control, pushbutton and remote start.
Best of all is Nissan’s ProPILOT Assist system, which can ease driver workload by reducing the amount of driver acceleration, steering and braking input under certain driving conditions.
The feature came in handy when my wife and I commuted home from Sea-Tac during rush hour. The trip was still aggravating, but it was made less stressful with ProPILOT Assist.
Rogue covers all the bases, executes to perfection, and delivers at a price point that is more than competitive. And, for those that care, it’s assembled in Smyrna, Tenn., Kyushu, Japan, and Busan, Korea.
Base Price: $32,385
Price As Driven: $35,130
Base price includes destination charge. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. List price may vary at local dealerships.
