2013 NISSAN ROGUE: Top-quality product is easy on the budget

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This article was published 03/11/2012 (4751 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Nissan’s popular compact crossover, the Rogue, returns for 2013 with a starting price of $23,778 for the base front-wheel drive S model.

There’s also an all-wheel-drive version of the entry trim level beginning at $26,578, though prices range as high as $34,398 for the top-of-the-line SL all-wheel drive model.

These are among the lowest prices on the market for a vehicle in this burgeoning class, making it quite a value for consumers looking for a top-quality product that’s easy on the budget.

This is the last year of the current generation of the Rogue, whose production moves to the United States from Japan next year as the redesigned model arrives for 2014.

But there’s really no reason to wait if you’re in need of a vehicle now, as the 2013 version offers everything a young family or couple — or even empty-nest baby boomers — could want in a smooth, comfortable and very car-like utility vehicle.

For 2013, changes include an upgraded $1,400 Special Edition Package for the base S model, which brings such extras as an intelligent key system, 16-inch alloy wheels and a power sunroof. For the mid-level front-wheel drive SV, an optional $1,950 Premium Package delivers such goodies as a premium AM/FM/CD audio system, two extra speakers (to 6), 18-inch alloy wheels and fog lights.

At the SV AWD level, Nissan also offers an $1,850 Technology Package that includes most of the Premium amenities and adds a navigation system and XM satellite radio. Of course, the top-of-the-line SL AWD model includes all of these enhancements, plus a Bose audio system, Bluetooth and USB connectivity

The Rogue competes against such vehicles as the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Mitsubishi Outlander and Subaru Outback. The Rogue is the most car-like of the group, as well as the most fuel-efficient.

Under the hood of all models is a 2.5-litre, 16-valve, inline four-cylinder engine, rated at 170 horsepower and 175 foot-pounds of torque, connected to a continuously variable transmission. The CVT has no discernible shift points, so transmission and engine are matched at all times for the best efficiency and fuel economy.

Transport Canada ratings are 9.0 L/100 km city and 7.0 highway for the base S model, rising a bit to 9.6 city and 7.7 highway for the SL AWD.

Introduced for 2008, the Rogue has become one of Nissan’s best-selling vehicles. And you don’t have to upgrade to the higher levels to have a well-equipped Rogue. Standard even on the S model are such features as an iPod connection, six-way manually adjustable driver’s seat, illuminated vanity mirrors and, of course, air conditioning, power windows and door locks with remote control and cruise control.

We tested the SL AWD model that includes Nissan’s very cool Around-View Monitor, which uses cameras on each of the vehicle’s four sides to create a virtual bird’s-eye view on the dash screen as though you’re looking down on the vehicle from above. It’s great when you’re navigating through tight spaces or trying to park.

There is room for five in the Rogue, although the middle position on the rear bench seat is best left to a small child or a child seat. Front passengers are quite comfortable in the bucket seats and rear passengers have plenty of space, too, if they’re average size or smaller.

Folding down the rear seatback, which has a 60/40 split, can expand that area significantly. The front passenger seatback also folds down to accommodate long items, such as snow skis.

The Rogue has ample power for everyday driving, especially when the car isn’t fully loaded, and it’s delivered smoothly through the CVT even on hills. Handling is more like that of a compact sport sedan than a utility vehicle, and steering is tight and precise.

Nissan says the all-wheel drive is designed primarily for driving on wet and slippery roads, including snow, but it also offers better traction on gravel and other unpaved road surfaces, as well as in tight turns.

The system is not designed for serious off-road driving, though, as there is no transfer case for low-range gearing and the Rogue has limited ground clearance.

— Fort Worth Star-Telegram