2014 Nissan Rogue
The 2014 Nissan Rogue marks the debut of the second generation of this compact crossover that seats five (or seven with an optional third row). Based on a car platform, the 2014 Nissan Rogue is available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
The 2014 Nissan Rogue was redesigned from the ground up, starting with a new, global platform. Dimensions have been slightly tweaked: the 2014 Rogue is an inch-and-a-half wider, and rides on a wheelbase about a half-inch longer. And although the overall length is about an inch shorter, Nissan has done a good job reconfiguring the Rogues space to eke out slightly more head, leg room and hip room over its predecessor.
Previously only available as a five-seater, the 2014 Rogue offers optional third-row seating, which brings maximum capacity to seven. However, the third-row seats are small and cramped, suitable only for small children or for carrying adults short distances in a pinch. The second row is quite comfortable, and now has the ability to slide and recline.
While the previous Rogue fell short when it came to cargo space, the 2014 Rogue is much improved. The 2014 Rogue offers a maximum of 70.0 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded down, much more than the previous generation. With all seats in place, the five-seat Rogue offers 32 cubic feet of cargo capacity, more than whats found in the Chevrolet Equinox and only slightly less than that of the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The seven-seat Rogue has just 9.4 cubic feet of cargo space available when all three rows of seats are in place.
Utility in the Rogue is enhanced by numerous convenient storage features, including an oversized glove compartment, a large center console and a variety of cupholders and cubbies.
All Rogue models use the same four-cylinder engine and CVT. Carrying over from the previous Rogue is Nissans 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 170 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque, with some minor tweaks for 2014 for improved efficiency. Its paired with an updated Continuously Variable Transmission, or CVT, which Nissan claims is 10 percent more fuel-efficient than the previous iteration.
Behind the wheel, the Rogue offers carlike ride and handling. We think its one of the better handling small SUVs. Ride quality is improved over the previous generation, and the 2014 Rogue is quieter, although we noticed moderate tire noise.
Towing capacity on the 2014 Nissan Rogue is now 1,000 pounds, down from 1,500 on the previous generation vehicle, both small numbers. If towing is one of your requirements, wed suggest you look elsewhere. With relatively low ground clearance, the Rogue is not suited for off-roading. However, if youre looking for an agile, roomy small crossover with good handling and configurable cargo space, the Rogue is a solid choice.
Smartphone connectivity is available via the NissanConnect app, which allows users to access their phones data, stream audio, use social media with compatible devices. Other technology includes optional safety features like blind spot detection, lane departure warning and moving object detection.
In addition to a redesigned exterior and interior, a new platform lies underneath the Rogues swoopy panels (known as the Common Module Family architecture, or CMF). For the first time, the Nissan Rogue will be built in the U.S., with vehicles rolling out of Nissans assembly plant in Smyrna, Tennessee. Previous models were assembled in Japan.
Fuel economy for the 2014 Nissan Rogue is also improved, with EPA ratings of 26/33 mpg City/Highway with front-wheel drive, 25/32 mpg City/Highway with all-wheel drive.
Competitors to the 2014 Nissan Rogue include compact crossovers Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson and Toyota RAV4.