2014 Nissan Rogue SV-Tech Family AWD

The Japanese and the Aussies call it the “Dualis”, in Europe it goes by “Qashqai” and we know it as “Rogue”.

All new for 2014, the Rogue looks prettier, better made and comes fully loaded with technology. Under the hood there is only one 4-cylinder engine option, which is exclusively mated to a CVT transmission. Prices start at $23,498 for the S FWD and go all the way up to $30,498 for the SL-AWD. Our tester SV-AWD sits at the middle of the range and has a starting price of $28,748 but equipped with the Tech Family package that adds Navigation System, SiriusXM Traffic, Power liftgate, 3rd-row split fold-flat bench seat and Around View® Monitor, it costs $30,933 plus taxes and fees.

The V-shaped front grille and tight angled headlights give it an aggressive look up front. The plastic arch protectors are crossover hits and the rear is a conservative attempt that looks nice but not as great as the front.  It is 25mm shorter than the outgoing model but 40mm wider and 31mm taller, not to mention that the wheelbase has grown by 16mm.

Inside the cabin there is adequate space for 5 adults while the Tech Family package adds a 3^rd row that can accommodate two extra kids bumping up the total number of passengers to seven. The front seats are supportive and comfortable and come with all the basic adjustments. The fabric used for the seat trim is excellent quality and feels like velour. The driving position lacks tilt adjustment but is still quite good and visibility is great. The dashboard’s design is very modern with multiple levels and angles that don’t over complicate it though. Ergonomically most of the controls are placed correctly, minus the sport button which is not as accessible as I would like it to be. The top dash and door panels are soft to the touch that is always welcome in our world especially when inspiring daylight shines through big panoramic sunroof like the one in this SUV. The rear 60:40 foldable bench is good enough to sit three adults that will have more headroom than legroom. The trunk with the 3^rd row folded is spacious and fully usable due to the straight design. With the 3^rd row up, there is room only for a few necessities. The power liftgate works well and helps a lot when carrying heavy stuff.

Under the hood, the 2.5L 4-cyl engine outputs 170 HP and 175lb-ft of torque and is mated to the latest Xtronic-CVT Transmission. The overall operation is very quiet and smooth when cruising with a green foot. Going hard on the gas reveals the weakness of the CVT, which is no other than, the horrible engine tone it keeps. It does do the job, as 0-100km/h comes in 9.5 seconds which is quicker than a CR-V and fuel economy is on par with the competition, as 11.1 lt/100km was our combined average.

On the road the all-independent suspension is soft and provides a smooth ride. It will take a serious bump to send a good amount of shock to the passengers and the operation while cushioning is on the quiet side. Aerodynamic noises are minimal and long journeys on highway speeds are an enjoyable experience. On twisty back roads, adrenaline-raising expectations are short-lived as the steering feels rather artificial despite its consistent weight. It is a shame really, cause the vehicles dynamics are capable of turning at speed with confidence and poise but being unable to communicate this to the driver compromises the driving experience. The brake pedal has a positive feel and applied hard brings the Rogue to a complete stop from 100km/h in 48m.

The all-new 2014 Nissan Rogue builds upon the success of the previous model and enhances areas that are important today. Especially the standard driving aids like blind spot monitors and lane departure control are features that only the Rogue offers at this price point. The option for the seven seat layout is also a major advantage over the competition.  A balanced and good all-rounder is what the Rogue used to be and with all the necessary updates, that is what it still is today.