Introduction

Nissan Rogue – 2008 Review: History is peppered with lovable scoundrels, and Robin Hood is arguably the most storied. The English rogue robbed from the corruptly rich sheriff of Nottingham and gave to the downtrodden poor. We’d like to say that Nissan imitated the famous Briton when it came up with the Rogue crossover. Alas it’s more like Friar Tuck – an average, capable and plain vehicle that’s softer than its Sentra sedan sibling. It can, however, play the loyal but sometimes coarse servant who carries passengers and cargo across the urban landscape with nary a complaint. 

What We Drove
Our test vehicle was a Rogue S AWD, which is the lower of the two trim levels available, with one option – floor and cargo mats package, $1xx. Among the standard features are a continuously variable transmission, electric steering, four-wheel antilock brakes with force distribution and assist, power mirrors, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, power windows and locks, four-speaker audio system with auxiliary jack, six airbags, stability and traction control. With its single option, the total came to $21,375, including a $745 destination charge.

Performance
Despite the Rogue’s 170 horsepower and 175 lb.-ft. of torque, launching it with authority requires flooring it, but within a couple of seconds the continuously variable transmission (CVT) sucks up the torque and progress drops off. From a performance standpoint, that’s the biggest flaw of the CVT. With overdrive off, response is better, but engine speeds remain higher for longer. Acceleration is better at speed, say from 40 mph to 60 mph. This CVT is quieter and does a better job of managing engine speeds than others we’ve driven, but a well-designed, normal automatic does a better job of transferring power.