Nissan’s new small crossover is more squire than scoundrel

Page 2 of 6

2008 Nissan Rogue – Ride and Handling

Handling
The four-wheel antilock disc brakes are the highlight here. They do an excellent job of bringing the 3,426 pound vehicle to a stop. There’s some shudder when braking abruptly at slower speeds, but from near-freeway velocity it’s smooth and drama free. Steering is on the light and vague side, but the Rogue goes where you expect it. Handling is on the soft side, but body roll is pretty well contained. Transitional response is adequate. The ride is comfortable without being floaty. The automatic all-wheel drive system didn’t make itself known in any way, good or bad.

Fun to Drive
With tepid acceleration because of the CVT and suspension tuned for comfort, the Rogue isn’t much fun. The Rogue’s CVT isn’t as bad as some we’ve driven, but that’s like saying the second root-canal didn’t hurt as much as the first. A normal automatic transmission would liven it up, as would a five-speed manual, but the all-wheel drive system is of the type that requires an automatic. We averaged 19.4 mpg in mixed driving; the EPA rates the Rogue at 21 mpg in the city and 26 on the highway.