Gone are the stereotypical images of box-like utility crossoversof designs past. The target market for entry-level crossover vehicles is the young urban professional, shuffling from gym bags and sports gear to strollers and baby seats. Consumers in this segment seek the practicality of an SUV without sacrificing the cool factor in design or handling capabilities of a car. Take the Nissan Rogue for example, a 2008 model year entry crossover. Before viewing any pictures of the vehicle, I was intrigued by the name so I decided to look up the dictionary definition of “Rogue”, which means: no longer obedient, belonging, or accepted and hence not controllable or answerable; deviating, renegade. As Bill Bosley, vice president and general manager commented at the Detroit Auto Show, “The Rogue name was chosen to reflect its independence-oriented positioning, though we certainly believe that all buyers, regardless of age or life stage, | | Styling, a sporty image and pricing should help the Rogue stand out. (Photo: Nissan) |
will positively respond to Rogue's fun-to-drive, all climate performance and aggressive styling”. I'm not sure how far the Rogue goes in accomplishing Nissan's intent, as it tries to squeeze in this already crowded segment. Established namesakes such as the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Santa Fe, and so on ... havesecured loyal followings. But only time will tell, so let's take a closer look at the 2008 Rogue.
At first glance, how does the Rogue deviate in the looks department? For an entry-level crossover, quite frankly it looks athletic and stylish. The Rogue is almost the spitting image of its older and | | In the face of seven-seater compact utes like the RAV4 and Outlander, the Rogue sticks with five seats. (Photo: Nissan) |
bigger sibling, the upscale Murano. Built on the new “C” platform that shares its lineage with the current Sentra, the Rogue measures 182.9 inches long with a 105.9-inch wheelbase, 70.9 inches wide, and 65.3 inches high. This translates into more legroom for both front and rear seat passengers.
Power is supplied by the competent QR25DE 2.5-liter DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder that produces 170 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. This engine is also found in the Sentra SE-R, Nissan Altima 2.5 S, and Frontier King Cab XE. For the Rogue, special tuning reportedly provides plenty of torque in the low to mid range for good get-up and go, whilespoiling the owner with the gas saving benefits of a four | | Cabin looks well designed and sporty. (Photo: Nissan) |
banger. Channeling the power to either the front-wheel or optional advanced all-wheel drive systems (available in both S and SL models), the Rogue won't lose its composure with the inclusive Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) plus Traction Control System (CTS). To get up to cruising speeds, the compact Nissan comes equipped with a standard Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), which provides an infinite number of gear ratios in order to optimize engine speed for peak power and maximum fuel efficiency. Available paddle shifters offer the driver more control and that all-important fun factor. The base Rogue wears 16-inch wheels on 215/70 series tires, while 17-inch 225/60 series tires are optional. Both support the 4-wheel independent suspension. The front struts with coil springs and stabilizer bar offer handling characteristics that should be competitive | | It can be loaded up to the gills with goodies such as a Bose stereo, Bluetooth and Intelligent Key. (Photo: Nissan) |
with other SUVs in its segment, while rear multi-link shock and rebound springs should benefit stability while delivering more cargo space.
From the front, design cues such as the Nissan badge at center surrounded by an egg crate grille are well recognized trademarks.The headlight design, with available xenon "bulbs", is reminiscent of the current Maxima. The CUVs side profile showcases the athletic curves of the hood, the edge-creased wheel arches, bulging side panels, and muscular D-pillar leading to the rear bumper. The rear taillight treatment is also Maxima-like. In fact the Rogue may not be quite as “distinctive” as its name implies. A quick glance at the rear quarter profile shows that it's somewhat similar to Honda's new CR-V, and yet that's where I think keeping up with the Joneses has overtaken common sense. Though it looks sleek from the outside, my experience with the third generation | | X-Tronic CVT is standard on all Rogues. Nope, no manual is in sight. (Photo: Nissan) |
CR-V's side rear trapezoidal window and thick D-pillar is that it creates a blind spot that can be problematic during lane changes or even when reverse parking. The Rogue, I believe, also shares the same design dilemma, so be on the lookout when test driving this crossover.
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