Overview
The Rogue is a practical and efficient compact crossover—and Nissan’s best-selling model. While its attractive looks and comfortable cabin are appealing, the Rogue isn’t as charismatic or refined as leading rivals. Its lazy 170-hp four-cylinder pairs with front- or all-wheel drive, and its performance is uninspired. It is exceptionally safe with great crash-test results and oodles of available active safety assists. Still, this class is filled with fun and functional alternatives that are more compelling than the mass-market Rogue.
What’s New for 2018?
For 2018, the Rogue is cosmetically and mechanically unchanged, but it is no longer available with a third row. However, it adds several consumer-minded features that improve its appeal elsewhere. The biggest addition is Nissan’s ProPilot Assist, which debuts on the 2018 Rogue. The system uses lane-keeping assist and stop-and-go adaptive cruise control to help the driver accelerate, brake, and steer on the highway. Every Rogue also receives a standard 7.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additionally, it receives another USB port (two total), new standard equipment on higher trims, renamed and reshuffled packages, and two new exterior colors: Scarlet Ember and Midnight Pine.
Pricing
Pricing is in 2018 dollars:
- Rogue FWD S: $25,845
- Rogue FWD SV: $27,065
- Rogue FWD SL: $32,225
- Rogue AWD S: $27,195
- Rogue AWD SV: $28,415
- Rogue AWD SL: $33,575
- Rogue FWD SL Hybrid: $33,425
- Rogue FWD SV Hybrid: $28,065
- Rogue AWD SL Hybrid: $34,775
- Rogue AWD SV Hybrid: $29,415
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Rogue retains the same engine and continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) for 2018. Noisy and reluctant can describe an unsettled stomach after a supersize value meal—or the Rogue’s gasoline powertrain. A hybrid is available, too. The 170-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder and continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is the standard setup. The CVT’s sluggish response and syrupy power delivery cause the engine to wail under heavy throttle; this powertrain seems to drag the Rogue around town rather than pull it. The hybrid version mates a 2.0-liter four-cylinder and an electric motor to produce a combined 176 horsepower through the same CVT as the gasoline engine. Driving the Rogue is like visiting your grandparents: The feedback might be a little dull, but at least it’s comfortable. Acceleration that lags behind that of class leaders, buoyant body motions, and unremarkable brakes are trademarks of the dynamically lackluster Nissan. During normal driving conditions, the pedal feels light and the brakes respond inconsistently. Hit the brakes hard and the Rogue’s nose takes a noticeable dive.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest and most accurate fuel economy numbers on current and older vehicles, we use the U.S. Department of Energy’s fueleconomy.gov website. Under the heading “Find & Compare Cars” click on the Compare Side-by-Side tool to find the EPA ratings for the make, model, and year you’re interested in.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Rogue’s interior is a comfortable and attractive environment, and the Platinum Reserve Interior package takes it into luxury territory. The 2018 Rogue is no longer available with a third row, which means the Volkswagen Tiguan is the only other compact crossover that is. The Nissan’s interior is otherwise unchanged, preserving the pleasant environment that is one of its high points. Along with other interior updates and enhancements, the Rogue’s riders benefit from added sound-absorbing materials that make it quieter inside. Nissan’s Zero Gravity front bucket seats provide incredible comfort, although we’re surprised a power-adjustable passenger seat isn’t offered. The Platinum Reserve Interior package is a deal that delivers an upscale touch. It covers the seats in dark camel leather with quilted inserts and extends to the doors, dash, and center console to create an opulent environment
Infotainment and Connectivity
Every Rogue has a standard 7.0-inch NissanConnect infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Too bad the interface is less attractive than its rivals’, and we experienced some issues with the system. Addressing our gripes from 2017, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support now comes standard on every Rogue, along with a 7.0-inch touchscreen. An additional USB port inside the center-console bin is new, too. Although we were unable to test the NissanConnect’s responsiveness, we encountered a couple of issues. Pressing the touchscreen too many times and too quickly can trigger a buffering pop-up. The entire system also blacked out on us once while we were running the navigation and satellite radio—unprovoked, it simply restarted itself middrive.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
For more information about the Rouge’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer’s Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer’s CPO program.
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