A Brief Look at the Nissan Rogue
The Nissan Crossover Legacy
Nissan Motor Co Ltd is a Japanese multinational automobile manufacturing company that has been in existence since 1933. They have been manufacturing cars for the world market since their inception, and in that time have become a well-respected brand both in Japan and other countries where their vehicles are sold.
As the years have progressed, Nissan has diversified their lineup to include hybrid and electric cars, but one of their biggest market expansions came in 2007 with the release of their compact SUV, the Nissan Rogue. Since that time, the Rogue has undergone several changes in design and features, becoming one of Nissan’s top-selling cars globally, and a favorite among North American drivers.
In this article, we will take a look at the history and evolution of the Nissan Rogue vehicle from its first generation to its current iteration.
First Generation (2007-2013)
The first generation Rogue was introduced in 2007 as Nissan’s answer to the popular compact SUV segment. The vehicle was designed on the same platform as the Nissan Sentra and was marketed as a practical family car. It was available in both front and all-wheel drive models.
The first generation Rogue was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 170 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that was designed to increase fuel efficiency.
The first-generation Rogue featured amenities like a four-speaker stereo with an auxiliary jack and a CD player, air conditioning, cruise control, and power windows and locks.
The automaker also offered optional features such as keyless start, automatic climate control, leather upholstery and a premium Bose sound system.
Second Generation (2014-2019)
The second-generation Rogue made its debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show and was built on an entirely new chassis. The design was more aerodynamic, with a sleeker exterior and a more spacious interior than its predecessor.
The second-generation Rogue featured updated technology such as Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and hands-free texting.
In this generation, Nissan also introduced the hybrid version of the SUV with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor and an advanced lithium-ion battery pack. This added an extra level of fuel efficiency to an already efficient crossover.
In 2017 Nissan offered a unique option for the Rogue with the third-row seating that could seat an additional two passengers, making the Rogue one of the few crossovers in the segment to seat seven.
Third Generation (2020-Present)
The current-generation Nissan Rogue was introduced in 2020, and marketed with a “fresh new look” for crossover enthusiasts.
Nissan’s third-generation Rogue features a broader and more athletic design than its predecessor. The vehicle boasts a new drivetrain, a more refined suspension system, and new features such as a 360-degree camera system.
The new Rogue keeps the same drivetrain options as the previous generation: a 2.5-liter gasoline four-cylinder producing 181 horsepower, linked to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The engine can be paired with front-wheel drive or all-wheel-drive models.
To keep up with competition against other compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the automaker added new standard features like NissanConnect, which features automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot warning, and lane departure warning with lane-keeping assist.
The car’s optional features include an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a 9.0-inch screen is provided on the navigation-equipped models, heated front seats and steering wheel, a panoramic sunroof, and a power liftgate.
In Conclusion
Since its inception, the Nissan Rogue has evolved from a sensible family car to a practical and well-designed family crossover. Its three generations have been successful and well-received by both drivers and critics.
Although the Rogue started as a simple vehicle, Nissan has worked to advance the vehicle, and the third generation has been a significant improvement. With its enhanced fit and finish and cutting-edge technology, the Nissan Rogue provides a vehicle that handles well and is comfortable while offering the efficiency that consumers demand.