2009 Nissan Rogue Review (video)

Rogue is Nissan's popular and award-winning crossover SUV, and a model geared towards the safety and performance-minded shopper. It can be ordered with a selection of premium and unique features, allowing customization to the needs of nearly any family.

Rogue sets itself apart with a distinctive fascia, alloy wheels, roof rails and bits of chrome.

All Rogue models get Nissan's 2.5 litre inline four cylinder engine under the hood. Using variable valve timing, the punchy powerplant delivers spirited get up and go alongside reasonable mileage. The automaker's 'XTRONIC" Continually Variable Transmission (CVT) helps in these departments as well.

The CVT can whip up pretend gear ratios on the fly, and a six-speed 'simulated' manual-mode is optionally available to take advantage of it. It adds an entertaining element for sporty drivers, who can opt to change gears with the click of a steering-wheel mounted shift paddle like a race car driver.

Still, the CVT can still take some getting used to for those who've never experienced it. For instance, passing causes it to hold the revs stationary at between 5,000 and 6,000 RPM, making some fairly disconcerting sound effects if you're not used to it. The CVT lends itself to smooth performance though, as there's no sensation of gears shifting unless requested in manual mode.

The tester included a suite of hardware to help create an upscale and high-tech experience within the cabin. The intelligent key system and bluetooth phone interface lend hands-free operation to two common tasks, while the Bose audio system, heated leather seating and sunroof give a feel more characteristic of a luxury sedan.

Flip-down rear seating expands the Rogue's cargo carrying capacity when required, and the interior is fitted with several storage compartments to keep smaller items out of the way. Occupants are protected by advanced front, side and curtain airbags, tire pressure monitoring, and active front head restraints on all models.

Complaints? Some controls have a dated feel, rearward visibility is limited and headroom is at a premium for occupants much taller than average.

Flip-down rear seating expands the Rogue's cargo carrying capacity when required.