The 2014 model year marked the start of the second generation of the Nissan Rogue, but it was a lot more than bold style that came along with the newest version of the compact SUV. Sure, if you look at the original Rogue — which was also sold briefly as the Rogue Select — it was a cute, likable 2-row compact crossover SUV, and it did a nice job of filling out Nissan‘s utility lineup, which included the Pathfinder, Xterra, Murano, Armada, and Juke.
But with the second-gen, of which our long-termer is a proud member, the Rogue went upscale, growing up and growing bigger. Body lines are crisp, sharper while still being likeable. LED accent lights give the nose a touch of panache. The current Rogue has looks that stand out on the road, something the previous model didn’t have.
Also: Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Awards of 2015
Bigger and Better
The current Rogue rides on a wheelbase that’s 0.6 inch longer than on the earlier model. While it’s actually about an inch shorter overall, it benefits from smarter interior packaging, making room for an optional third row. But given its overall size, there’s only so much you can achieve in a small vehicle, so the third row is tight. However, this is the only compact SUV that even offers a third row. Combine that with the flexibility of the Divide-N-Hide cargo system, sliding second-row seats and a load floor that can hold 70.0 cubic feet of gear, and the Rogue arguably has the most versatile interior in its class.
The interior is also a step up from the 2013 model, with available features like heated front seats, Nissan’s industry-standard Around View Monitor, and a panoramic moonroof, all nestled among high-quality materials. Even things like the gauge cluster, the center stack and navigation system, and storage areas have been improved. The end result of this work is that the small SUV has become better at accommodating passengers and their stuff, without becoming too big for its britches.
See Past Reports for our Long-Term 2014 Nissan Rogue…
Long-Term Update: Fuel Economy
Long-Term Update: Steering and Handling
Long-Term Update: The 6-month Service
Long-Term Update: Halfway Home
Long-Term Update: Divide-N-Hide Cargo System
See full review and pricing information for the 2014 Nissan Rogue or build and price your own to unlock its Fair Purchase Price, 5-Year Cost to Own, and more.
