2012 Nissan Rogue Reviews, Pricing & Specs

Nissan's little big deal is still going strong for its fifth year of production, and aside from revised wheel designs and a new switch for...

Nissan's little big deal is still going strong for its fifth year of production, and aside from revised wheel designs and a new switch for Sport Mode, the Rogue only sees a few more options for 2012. Most makers follow a 6-year refresh cycle, but given the Rogue's success, Nissan may choose not to move it into a new generation for 2013. If it does, you can probably look forward to an engine upgrade and improved rear visibility, as those are the only two remaining complaints.

The Rogue especially stands out to this reviewer for one key point - out of every single review, there's probably one poorly made Rogue in the last two years. Just one, and it's not even severe - a bit of rattle to indicate something wasn't tightly bolted. This is exceptionally rare for any car, let alone one still in its first generation - and it says a lot for the workmanship and design integrity of the Rogue.

As for those engine complaints, some drivers just want more power - specifically reverse torque is the primary concern. The 170-hp 2.5-liter 4-cylinder and CVT powering the Rogue have conquered snow-stacked mountain passes with the optional all-wheel drive, and even drivers with the standard front-wheel-drive configuration have praised its ability to handle most situations. Acceleration to 60 mph takes 8.6 seconds, quick for a crossover 5-seater, and it stops from 60 mph in just over 120 feet - but 6 inches of snow is just too much for the Rogue in reverse without getting some momentum first.

Rearward visibility is hampered by the Rogue's small windows, and drivers repeatedly tout its available rear-view camera as a kind of necessary safety addition. A new Special Edition Package makes that upgrade available in the base S alongside steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, a 4.3-inch audio display, USB port, satellite radio, fog lights, 16" alloy wheels and tinted glass. The SL option pack for the upscale SV trim now features an Around View 360-degree camera for 2012 as well - and that sums up the 2012 additions.

Despite the lack of a telescoping steering wheel, drivers from 5'2" to 6'8" have reported no problems whatsoever, and although the rear seats are a bit cramped to fit adults in all 3 spots, that is quickly overshadowed by loud applause for the comfort of the Rogue's seats and overall ride quality. Road noise - especially in wet conditions - and the constant drone of the CVT are fairly common complaints, but some drivers call the Rogue blissfully quiet. Either way, all drivers agree that the Rogue is wonderfully fun to drive with one of the most precise and responsive steering systems of its class.

Although the Rogue is not top dog when it comes to safety and cargo capacity, the latest tests are more stringent than before and they still leave the Rogue with four out of five stars overall. Every passenger seat folds down to allow 8 feet fore to aft for longer items and over 53 cubic feet of space. Last but not least, fuel economy is a highly respectable 22 mpg city/26 highway even with all-wheel drive - and that put the Rogue on the top of the list for many current owners even before considering its first-class cabin, excellent ride quality and fun demeanor.