Nissan’s 2025 Rogue enters the crowded compact SUV market, offering seating for five. It stands shoulder to shoulder with competitors like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Subaru Forester. Combining practical features with appealing design, the Rogue provides a solid option for those wanting flexibility and style in an already competitive class of vehicles.
DESIGN
For 2025, Nissan’s Rogue showcases a complex exterior design, juxtaposed with a simpler, more refined cabin. The updated grille integrates seamlessly, but the split headlights give off an odd, futuristic vibe. Despite some sporty elements like the V-shaped grille and prominent air intakes, the Rogue doesn’t deliver on a performance-focused promise.
From a side view, the Rogue’s silhouette feels disproportionate, with its bulky rear section clashing with the front’s streamlined look. Inside, the cabin stands out with intuitive controls and a stylish layout. Higher trims offer upgrades, replacing basic black cloth with premium materials like leather, adding a touch of sophistication. A 12.3-inch touchscreen enhances the dashboard’s appeal, offering a more modern and user-friendly experience than the standard 8.0-inch display.
PERFORMANCE
Powering the 2025 Nissan Rogue is a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. Despite this, the SUV’s considerable weight hampers its performance. The CVT is smooth under normal driving, but passing power on highways feels sluggish, thanks to delayed responses from the transmission.
Where the Rogue truly shines is in comfort. With 19-inch wheels on the Platinum trim, it offers a smooth ride, though it can feel slightly unsettled at times. A flat-bottom steering wheel suggests a sporty nature, but the driving experience doesn’t quite live up to that promise. While precise, the steering lacks sharpness, and body roll is noticeable in corners.
Sportiness is not the Rogue’s strong suit, especially compared to agile rivals like the Subaru Forester and Honda CR-V. However, it does excel in braking performance, with solid stops. Highway stability is also impressive, especially with the help of adaptive cruise control, making for a smooth and relaxed drive.
VERDICT
Rogue faces stiff competition from several well-rounded rivals. The refreshed Subaru Forester offers improved refinement but doesn’t stray far from the formula of its predecessor.
Honda’s CR-V embraces hybrid tech, though it’s limited to select trims, while Hyundai’s redesigned Tucson stands out this year with its fresh look and interior enhancements, making it a strong competitor.
For those looking for something unique, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV stands out with 38 miles of electric range, presenting an intriguing alternative to the Kia Sportage, which shares hybrid powertrains with the Tucson.
