All Rogue models come with a 170-horsepower, 2.5L 4-cylinder engine and a continuously variable automatic transmission. The combination is enough to provide surprisingly quick performance off the line as well as adequate passing power. Front- or all-wheel drive variants are offered; the all-wheel drive system is oriented toward good all-weather performance, rather than toward off-roading. The 4-wheel independent suspension has stabilizer bars front and rear to help keep cornering flat while maintaining a smooth ride. Electric power steering helps save fuel, and EPA ratings for the Rogue are as high as 22 mpg city, 28 highway on the front-wheel drive version.
The Rogue has spacious interior, with buckets for two in front and a bench that's either more than enough for two adults or a little on the tight side for three. The rear seats are split 60/40 and they fold forward for more cargo space. The front passenger seat also folds forward to allow extremely long cargo items like ladders to fit (more than 8.5 feet in all). There are also plenty of storage bins, as well as an oversize glovebox, a big center console and a removable/washable tray that's under the cargo floor--good for either dirty/muddy items or keeping valuables out of sight.
All the safety and security features that are expected in this class come standard--that includes front side airbags, roof-mounted side-curtain bags for front and rear occupants, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, electronic stability control and brake assist.
Standard features on the Rogue lineup for 2013 include iPod connectivity, a 6-way manual driver's seat and illuminated vanity mirrors. Cruise control and a trip computer are among the standard features on all models. A Sport Mode button also features on all trims.
The Special Edition package includes 16-inch wheels, a 6-speaker stereo with XM satellite radio, 4.3-inch color display with USB connectivity, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity and a rearview camera.
Most of the other main options on the 2013 Rogue are grouped into one of two other option packages. The Premium Edition on SV models brings automatic climate control, a power moonroof, a navigation system with touch-screen and real-time traffic features, fog lights, and a 7-speaker Bose audio system. An SL Premium Edition upgrades the SV with even more features, including larger 18-inch wheels, heated front seats, leather upholstery, xenon headlamps, and automatic climate control. The Around View Monitor uses four cameras to provide a virtual 360-degree view of what's around the vehicle, which helps in tight parking situations.
Roomy Interior
Fuel-efficiency
Maneuverability
Cargo-friendly Layout And Storage Options
New Tech Features
Value For The Money
Nissan's compact crossover vehicle, the Rogue, receives few changes for 2013. Among them, a Premium Edition replaces the previous Premium Package, adding front fog lights and a Bose audio system with seven speakers and a subwoofer. Elsewhere, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity and two additional speakers have been added to the Special Edition Package available on S models.
The Rogue's combination of a roomy interior and high roofline combined with secure, car-like handling--and its small-car maneuverability--make it a great choice for small families. The Rogue also has more clutter-reducing storage places, including the useful underfloor storage compartment. Fuel economy is good, with a combined rating of 25 mpg on the front-wheel drive version.
