With its launch of the 2008 Rogue, Nissan finally makes its entry into the crossover utility vehicle market. Crossovers are hot right now, as buyers flock to the sporty little models that offer the roomy flexibility of an SUV with the fuel efficiency of a car. Competing with well-established models like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda's CR-V, the 2008 Nissan Rogue needs a lot of pizazz to make a splash.

According to most reviewers, the '08 Nissan Rogue definitely has what it takes. Based on the Japanese maker's C platform (best known as the base for the popular Nissan Sentra), the '08 Rogue is targeted at younger buyers, from its name to its styling to its high-end Bose sound system. The compact utility vehicle offers an independent suspension, stability and traction control, and antilock disc brakes as standard features.

Two trim levels are offered for the 2008 Rogue: the entry-level S and the more luxurious SL. Each is available with front- or all-wheel drive, though the Rogue's light weight and relatively low profile don't make it a natural for off-road use.

Under the hood, you'll find a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, with an output of 170 horsepower and 175 ft-lbs of torque. That's plenty of power for a relatively lightweight vehicle like the Rogue; thanks to a continuously variable automatic transmission, it has plenty of power for hills. Reviewers praise the Rogue's oomph and quick acceleration; only time will tell if buyers zip into Nissan showrooms for this cute little CUV.