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2008 Nissan Rogue
Think of the name "rogue," and there's the implication of something just a little bit naughty. An irreverent ring. An indication of its wanderlust. It suggests a pride in being a rebel. That's not something one normally would equate with a compact auto. But Nissan's Rogue crossover utility is much more than the sedan platform it's based on.
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2008 Nissan Rogue Interior |
Like other Nissan designs of late, Rogue has a combination of smoothly rounded shaping and complementary edging that give it a rather dramatic style. At first glance, there's no doubt it's a Nissan since its humps and bumps fall in similar places as its larger, huskier sibling the Murano, and it bears the distinctive Nissan face. Wheel arches look planed off for a dramatic touch, and its rear window lines disappear into a point, as if someone stretched it taut toward the back and held it there.
For 2008, Rogue comes in S and SL versions, both with continuously variable transmission for best mileage (22 city/27 hwy mpg), standard dynamic driving control and available all-wheel drive plus paddle shifters for added fun. Its Sentra automobile foundation keeps it grounded with stable handling, even with its higher roofline. Despite its attitude, Rogue has a defined purpose of providing a vehicle for more budget minded shoppers who still want the room and adaptability of a sporty crossover.
Despite its blatant name that suggests adventurous explorations off the beaten path, this is a tamer highway cruiser, a super market duty hauler for the funky or the family that likes flair and base price around the $20,000-mark. Its auto underpinnings and 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine aren't intended for the boldest chores. But an attitude that suggests it can flirt with any challenge in feature-laden comfort has got to overpower any hint of limitation.
Read RTM’s 2008 Nissan Rogue Review |
