» Engine: 2.5-liter, DOHC, four-cylinder engine with 170 horsepower
» Transmission: Xtronic continuously variable transmission
» Fuel economy: 22 mpg city, 27 mpg highway
» MSRP: Starting at $21,930
While other automakers fuss to introduce new-and-improved versions of last year’s models, Nissan seemingly has taken the “if it’s not broke, don’t fix it” approach to the Nissan Rogue.
Nissan has put its publicity firepower into reminding consumers that the 2010 Rogue has won a host of safety awards including a coveted 5-Star Award for side-impact crash safety (most crossovers have many five star ratings but such a designation for side impact is somewhat rare) from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration plus a Consumer’s Digest “Best Buy” Award.
The real benefit of this crossover — I drove the 2010 Rogue SL AWD — is that it offers a spacious interior with 58 cubic feet of cargo space while not looking like a monster. Indeed it’s somewhat slim, muscular physique is not only stylish but a blessing when you’re in a parking garage with tight spaces.
No, this crossover doesn’t offer a third row of seats or an optional V-6 engine, but as others have noted in reviews many consumers don’t want either feature. This isn’t the car you likely want to take on off-road excursions with your pals. This is the car that comfortably seats five and can also move all the sports equipment, bags, coolers, and other odds and ends when you’re going on a weekend jaunt.
It’s also going to get you there in comfort with plenty of head- and legroom in the front and back and nice touches including heated seats, plenty of padded surfaces and a host of nooks and crannies for storage including an oversized glove box and large center console. No, it’s not high-end but neither is the price tag.
If you want to boost the wow factor, consider the “360-degree Value Package” offered for the first time this year. For just over $1,000 the Rogue will then have 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, privacy glass, an integrated rearview mirror/rearview monitor, an auto dimming review mirror, a rear spoiler and a chrome grille.
Whichever Rogue you choose, the 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine is designed to get you where you want to go, again, though as long as you’re not off road. If you want to take this car on off-road sports adventures, consider an Xterra.
Frankly, the Rogue isn’t going to be a powerhouse boosting you rapid-fire over steep hills. But remember, it’s not built for that. And unlike the crossovers that are built for more rough-and-tumble adventures, the Rogue offers high gas mileage. Two-wheel-drive models are rated at 22 mpg city/27 mpg highway while all-wheel-drive models clock in at a respectable 21 mpg city/26 mpg highway.
If you want a stylish crossover that’s built for comfort, the Nissan Rogue should be on your short list.
