2014 Nissan Rogue Reviews: A Mixed Bag of Power and Performance

The 2014 Nissan Rogue is a compact SUV that has garnered attention for its fuel efficiency and handling capabilities. But how does it perform under the hood? In this article, we'll delve into the pros and cons of the Rogue's engine and transmission.

On one hand, the Rogue's fuel economy is impressive, with up to 26/33 mpg city/highway according to Nissan. This is particularly noteworthy in a class where many SUVs struggle to hit these numbers. Our own testing revealed that we were able to achieve a combined city/highway mileage of 28.9 mpg, slightly bettering the EPA estimates.

On the other hand, some critics have noted that the Rogue's engine could use a bit more oomph. At around 3,500 lbs., the vehicle isn't particularly heavy, but its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces only 170 horsepower. This can lead to slightly sluggish acceleration at times.

One of the biggest drawbacks of the Rogue's engine is its tendency to get thrashy at high revs. At half throttle and above, the transmission winds out incessantly, which can be a bit unsettling for some drivers. However, it's worth noting that this behavior doesn't necessarily translate to poor performance – the Rogue is still capable of getting up to speed quickly enough.

Another aspect of the Rogue's engine that has drawn criticism is its sound at high revs. Those who push the pedal to the metal may find themselves rewarded with a less-than-pleasant engine noise.

However, it's worth noting that Nissan's Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) – which has been praised as one of the best CVTs on the market – helps to mitigate some of these issues. The transmission is able to hold revs higher in the range when power is needed, making it a useful tool for drivers who need to accelerate quickly.

Ultimately, whether or not the Rogue's engine and transmission are sufficient will depend on the individual driver's needs and preferences. While it may not be the most powerful vehicle in its class, the Rogue still offers impressive fuel economy and handling capabilities. Those who prioritize these aspects may find that the Rogue is a solid choice – but those who need more oomph under the hood may want to look elsewhere.

2014 nissan rogue reviews