NEW FOR 2015:
– Eco mode feature added
– Rogue SV Family Tech Package only offered with AWD
– Forward Collision Warning included with SL Premium Package
– Auto on/off headlamps standard for SV and SL
– New colour: Arctic Blue Metallic
Nissan’s clean-sheet redesign of the Rogue last year saw it grow from one of the smaller entries to one of the biggest in the compact crossover segment. With available third-row seating, mature styling, and significantly more space on the inside, the latest Rogue is more family friendly and amenable than ever. Really, you’d be hard-pressed to find a single roguish thing about it.
Given that the Rogue has been on sale for only a year, very little about it has changed. You’ll find a new Eco mode on all models that furthers fuel-saving potentials, while a pre-collision warning system has been added to the top-shelf SL Premium Package. The third-row option has been dropped for front-drive Rogue SVs.
The Rogue aims to appeal to drivers who seek comfort and confidence at the wheel. Its larger stature translates to a bigger feel down the road; the ride is smooth and quiet, and the steering well weighted though light on feel. One unique trait about the Rogue is its remarkably level ride; it uses the brakes, engine, and transmission to minimize body motions over bumps, acceleration, and braking. Body roll is also well controlled and should you take a corner too fast, while Active Trace Control gently nibbles away at understeer to keep you on course. The available 360-degree surround-view parking camera system is a must.
All Rogues uses a 2.5-litre four-cylinder with continuously variable transmission (CVT). Although power levels are competitive, the engine can feel laboured at time – especially when the vehicle is loaded, or the terrain is hilly. By and large, though, the CVT keeps the motor in an unobtrusive and quiet state. Few will find issue with its fuel economy, which is more car-like than its rivals – especially on the highway. The new Eco Mode dulls the throttle response and optimizes the CVT to better improve mileage, while the Sport mode does the opposite.
Inside, the Rogue stands apart from its rivals with a straightforward cabin that has a plush if not premium look and feel. The NASA-inspired Zero Gravity thrones are amongst the most comfortable in the segment. Family duties haven’t been ignored; the second-row seats slide and recline, the cargo space is well organized, and a kid-friendly third-row is also available.
The Rogue is available in five levels of trim: S, S AWD, SV, SV AWD, and SL AWD.
The S FWD includes 17-inch steel wheels with wheel covers, LED daytime running lights, Active Trace Control, Active Brake Control, Active Ride Control, roof rails, power heated mirrors with LED turn signal indicators, solar glass, rear spoiler, Eco mode, Bluetooth, text-message assistant, Nissan Connect mobile apps, 5.0-inch infotainment system with AM/FM/XM/CD player, USB jack, reverse camera, Divide-N-Hide cargo system, second-row seat with sliding and reclining function, second-row vents, cruise control, three 12-volt power outlets, illuminated vanity mirrors, six-way manual driver’s seat, four-way manual front passenger’s seat, tire-pressure monitor with easy-fill alert, and anti-theft system.
S AWD adds Intuitive All-Wheel Drive, hill-descent control.
SV FWD adds 17-inch alloy wheels, panoramic moonroof, auto on-off headlamps, fog lights, rear privacy glass, proximity key with pushbutton start, six-way power driver’s seat, heated front seats, retractable cargo cover, and a six-speaker stereo system.
SV AWD adds all-wheel drive and hill-descent control.
The optional SV Family Tech Package builds on the SV AWD and adds third-row seat, two additional beverage holders, run-flat tires, 7.0-inch infotainment screen with navigation, Around View camera system, blind spot warning, lane departure warning, moving object detection, and a power liftgate.
The SL AWD builds on the SV AWD and adds 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, auto-diming rear-view mirror, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and leather upholstery.
The optional Premium Package adds full LED headlamps with auto-leveling function, power liftgate, four-way power passenger seat, nine-speaker Bose sound system, 7.0-inch infotainment system with navigation, Around View camera system, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and moving object detection.
