Nissan introduced the Rogue compact crossover back in 2008. The 2012 Nissan Rogue compact SUV is pretty much a carryover of the 2011 Rogue that was refreshed mid-cycle. For 2012 the Rogue receives a new grille and front fascia, chrome-accented door moldings, rear spoiler, new color options and new features including Bluetooth and a USB port.
The 2012 Rogue is placed between the larger Nissan Murano and the smaller Nissan Juke. The styling has remained true to itself over the previous four years. A redesigned version is due next year as a 2013 model.
The 2012 Nissan Rogue is offered in two trims: S, and SV. All models come standard with front-wheel drive and an optional all-wheel drive system. Nissan Rogue crossover SUV adds a new Special Edition package for 2012, along with revised content for the various option packages. The Rogue is one of the best-selling vehicles in the Nissan lineup.
The new high-value Special Edition package ($1,200) includes steering wheel audio controls, Rear View Monitor, 4.3-inch audio display, USB connectivity, satellite radio, fog lights, and privacy glass. Other enhancements for 2012 include the addition of a new “Sport Mode” switch on all models, new 17-inch (SV) and 16-inch (Special Edition) aluminum-alloy wheels, and one new exterior color, Graphite Blue. Also, the SL Package adds the innovative Around View® Monitor.
The Rogue is among the lengthiest compact crossovers. Nissan describes the exterior as “an image of modern sophistication.” I would say the styling follows the general Nissan conservative theme; this is not to say that it is boring. This vehicle is actually quite nice; just not over-the-top. The front and rear wheel wells have dramatic arches with a belt line that sweeps upward at the rear creating a line that meets up with the swooping roofline.
The Rogue which seats five has a rather spacious interior for the front passengers and average for those in the rear. The cargo capacity ranges from 28.9 cubic feet to 57.9 cubic feet with the second row seat folded down. The interior was fairly comfortable with soft points on a rounded dash. Controls were easy to access and use with silver trim.
Performance on the Rogue comes in the form of one engine offering: 2.5-liter DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder that delivers 170 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. The engine is tuned to provide ample torque in the low-to-mid rpm range for a smooth and powerful acceleration. Every Rogue trim comes standard with Nissan’s Xtronic CVT™. A new Sport Mode switch is added for 2012. Fuel economy is rated at 22 mpg City and 28 mpg highway for the front wheel drive models and 22 city/26 highway for the all-wheel drive models.
Room for improvement:
- Maximum cargo volume could be improved
Cool Features:
- New Sport Mode
- Optional Around View® Monitor feature, which utilizes four small superwide-angle cameras – mounted on the front, side and rear of the vehicle – to provide a virtual 360° view of objects around the vehicle
Handling response is enhanced with an electric power-assisted steering system. The Rogue comes equipped with 4-wheel independent suspension and wheel sizes that range from 16-inch to 18-inch.
The standard safety equipment for the 2012 Nissan Rogue includes six standard air bags, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution, brake assist and vehicle dynamic control with traction control system.
In Summary – The 2012 Nissan Rogue is a fun and attractive crossover. The only question might be whether to wait for the all-new version due in 2013. You might also consider waiting to see Nissan offers special price promotions on the 2012 inventory to make room for the 2013 models. Either way, the 2012 Nissan Rogue is a fine value.
Specifications
2012 Nissan Rogue S FWD with the Special Edition package
Base price: $21,530 as driven: $23,730 (including destination)
Engine: 2.5-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower: 170 @ 6000
Torque: 175 foot pounds @ 4400
Transmission: Continuously Variable (CVT) with Sport Mode
Drive: Front Wheel-Drive
Seating: 5-passenger
Turning circle: 37.4 feet
Cargo space: 57.9 cubic feet
Curb weight: 3292 pounds
Fuel capacity: 15.9 gallons
EPA mileage: City 23 / Highway 28
Wheel Base: 105.9 inches
Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles bumper to bumper
Also consider: Dodge Nitro, Ford Edge, Honda CRV, Hyundai Tucson, Jeep Wrangler, and Toyota Rav4
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