HEELS ON WHEELS: 2011 NISSAN ROGUE REVIEW

2011 Nissan Rogue Specs, Prices and Comparisons

HEELS ON WHEELS
By Katrina Ramser
San Francisco Bureau
The Auto Channel

INTRO TO THE 2011 NISSAN ROGUE VEHICLE

Redesigned for 2011, the smaller sized Nissan Rogue crossover gets an upgrade that includes mainly aesthetic improvements to the exterior and interior. Model names and options are also revised or simplified down to three trim levels: the S, SV – and taking a cue from the boxy Cube – the sportier Rogue S Krom Edition.

I drove a 2011 Nissan Rogue with the SV trim and the 170-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with the automatic Xtronic CVT (Continuous Variable Transmission). While the powertrain hasn’t changed since the vehicle hit the market a few years back, the interior upgrades proves Nissan wants to stay competitive. The SV trim comes with a standard 6-way power driver’s seat, driver’s seat power lumbar support, 6-speaker CD audio system with a 4.3-inch color display, RearView Monitor, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System and Nissan Intelligent Key. Optional upgrades included the $1,650 Premium Package (Nissan navigation system with a 5-inch monitor, XM NavTraffic, a moonroof, automatic temperature control and automatic on/off headlights. Total vehicle price came to $25,855.

In relation to all mentioned above, this price reflects what consumers paid for a new 2009 Nissan Rogue two years ago with about the same amount of features. That means Nissan is genuinely giving away more standards. Nissan has a good thing going on with both the larger Murano and the Rogue – smooth performance in an evergreen, appealing crossover shape that is very spacious and comfortable for second-row passengers.

HEELS ON WHEELS REVIEW CRITERIA

Stylish But Comfortable Results: The cabin environment manages to envelope all passengers in warmth and security. Nissan primarily does this by using higher quality materials for both the seating and surfaces, followed by excellent construction and use of space. Overall the seating feel is firm and padded but not stiff. The center console layout is practical and encouraging to the driver and passenger with easy-to-locate knobs and buttons. If you’re curious about the Krom trim, it comes with a unique front grille and bumper with fog lights, unique rear fascia, center-exit sport-tuned exhaust, integrated body-colored rear spoiler, body colored power outside mirrors and new 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.

Reliability & Safety Factor: The following safety features are standard: Nissan Advanced Airbag Safety System; Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC); Traction Control System (TCS); Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS); Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD); Brake Assist; Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS); LATCH system for children. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2011 Nissan Rogue “Good” ratings in frontal and side crash test and “Acceptable” in rollover. The 2011 model is not yet rated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) at the time of this review.

Cost Issues: Nissan keeps the Rogue highly competitive at around $25k by offering an extremely outfitted smaller crossover. That includes Bluetooth, a moonroof, a backup monitor, navigation and XM radio. What you aren’t getting at this price is an upgraded stereo.

Activity & Performance Ability: As promised, the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine does provide ample torque in the low-to-mid rpm range for noticeable acceleration from a standing start. The CVT shift control offers the most optimal shift pattern according to the driving situation and driver input. The 4-wheel independent suspension reduces the feel of road impurities and keeps the vehicle very centered. The Rogue does offer Nissan’s All-Wheel Drive system. However, the 3.5-liter V6 on the Murano is of course a lot more powerful with zero hesitation upon during quick highway maneuvers and accelerating up inclined streets (not to mention a little roomier for four passengers).

The Green Concern: A major highlight of the Rogue is fuel economy of 22-city/28-highway driving for an EPA-average of 25-mpg. In case you are comparing to the larger Murano with the 3.5-liter V6, it gets 18-city/23-highway driving which I tested for an average of around 19-mpg (and there is no option for a smaller 4-cylinder). The fuel-friendly Cube stands out above the two at a tested 28-mpg.

FINAL PARTING WORDS Vehicles of this smaller crossover or hatchback size are the current car trend and many offer a more exciting turbo performance. But Nissan is able to make the Rogue standout by making sure consumers feel it is an affordable, comfortable and fun-to-drive family car with a lot more interior features than you’d expect for the cost.

©2011 Katrina Ramser

Editor’s Note: If you are reading this original review (this is Not a Press Release)on a site other than; The Auto Channel, EV-Motoring , New Car Buyers Guide, Totally Nissan or Nissan Buyers Guide, please be aware that this site has misappropriated our copyrighted material so please don’t add insult to our injury by helping support plagiarists and copyright infringers by clicking on the ads surrounding our stolen content.