By Nikki McLaughlin
The new Nissan Rogue is one of Nissan’s newer SUV models. However, to the surprise of many SUV owners, after driving the Rogue, it seems to be more car than SUV. With the Rogue, the evolution of the car-based SUV seems to have hit an all time high! It’s mostly car, but does seem to retain plenty of the utility of a SUV.
It rides like a car, very smooth and comfortable. It handles like a car, taking curves with well-controlled lean. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in 8.3 seconds which is an amazing accomplishment considering its four-cylinder engine and continuously variable transmission. The 2.5L churns out 170 horsepower and drives the front-wheels. All-wheel drive is available for mainly on-road usage.
The Rogue also comes nicely equipped for the driver, the lightly bolstered seats are high for a good driving position, and the radio has only one round knob not two. It also has two large, truck-like, side view mirrors. Don’t forget the ample passenger space and the large luggage storage that makes this SUV perfect for everyday driving or long distance travel.
The four-wheel disc brakes are anti-locking to go with vehicle dynamic control.
This SUV also comes competitively priced starting around $21,000 but not skimping on the equipment. The base model comes standard with tilt steering column, cruise control, A/C, trip computer and what Nissan calls “Mood Lighting.”
Even the premium package won’t break your budget, at $25,400 you add an amazing sound system, fog lights, built in navigation system, and audio controls on the steering wheel. There is pre-wiring for a towing hitch, but the maximum weight is only 1,500 pounds, which is still not bad for all the other great features you are getting.
Don’t forget one of the highest fuel economy ratings for an SUV at 22 city and 27 highway, except for when towing.
Now you can have the best of both worlds, and SUV for extra interior room plus all your utility needs, and the benefit of higher fuel economy and sharper handling for everyday city driving. Nissan has really out done themselves on this one of a kind SUV!
