By
LATEST ARTICLE
Chevy Volt Vs. Nissan Leaf: Compare Cars
For now, they're the only two mass-market electric vehicles on the road. So, which one should you... Read More
Chevy Volt Vs. Nissan Leaf: Compare Cars
For now, they're the only two mass-market electric vehicles on the road. So, which one should you... Read More
- #11LEADERBOARD RANK
- 4885ARTICLES CONTRIBUTED
- 96COMMENTS POSTED
9,781 views
Editors at TheCarConnection.com read the most respected reviews from around the Web to write this comprehensive review on the 2009 Nissan Rogue. TheCarConnection.com’s editors also drove the new Rogue, to be able to provide more details and their own opinions in cases where other reviews on the Web had conflicting views.
Likes:
- Nicely balanced ride and handling
- High-quality execution
- Useful cargo area organizer
- Strong family resemblance to Murano
Dislikes:
- CVT transmission may feel odd to consumers
- Mundane acceleration
- Styling limits rear visibility
- Tight rear-seat room for adults
The Nissan Rogue was all new for 2008 and the company's first compact utility vehicle for the U.S. market; it went on sale at a good time, when many U.S. shoppers were looking for a vehicle with better fuel economy, without sacrificing interior space.
Based on the compact Sentra sedan, the 2009 Nissan Rogue channels its larger sibling, the Murano, for styling cues. The amalgamation produces a five-passenger compact SUV with modern looks and a dynamic driving experience.
The 2009 Nissan Rogue has one engine and transmission combination: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 170 horsepower and a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which is used widely in Nissan products to maximize fuel efficiency. The transmission uses pulleys and a belt to simulate gear ratios—and Nissan outfits some Rogues with paddles for shifting that mimics an automatic’s gears. It works well enough, but CVTs drive differently, and some consumers may be unfamiliar with the experience.
Fuel economy is one of the reasons to choose the 2009 Nissan Rogue versus a larger SUV; its ratings of 22 mpg city, 27 mpg highway for the front-wheel-drive version are quite respectable. Although Nissan makes no claims of the Rogue being an off-roader, the optional all-wheel-drive system brings you better traction in deep snow; however, mileage ratings are 1 mpg lower with AWD.
