Like VW, Nissan is joining the compact crossover market late. The Rogue is already on sale in Europe as the Quashqi with a variety of engines, while we have one choice, the 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter four with a continuously variable transmission.
On sale this fall, the Rogue is eight inches shorter than a Murano and at 63.4 inches tall, very carlike. The Murano is due for its own major makeover for 2008. It'll remain a two-row-seat vehicle only.
Come back to MotorTrend.com for more on the Nissan Rogue and all of the latest from the Detroit show as it happens during the show press days, Jan. 7-9, 2007.
OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE FROM NISSAN:
At a Glance: 2008 Nissan Rogue Crossover SUV
The new 2008 Nissan Rogue, which makes its world debut at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, is designed to add a new dimension to the crossover utility segment - satisfying both the functional needs of the buyer and his emotional needs.
Rogue's aggressive, performance-oriented styling, powerful engine, responsive handling, and driver-focused cockpit combine with its thoughtful everyday utility to create a vehicle that shifts the way buyers, especially younger buyers, think about crossover SUVs.
The 2008 Nissan Rogue will be available in two models, Rogue S and Rogue SL, each with a standard 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, Nissan's advanced Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)) and 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). An all-new all-wheel drive system with yaw moment control is also available on both S and SL models.
nissan rogue front 2Rogue's refined interior includes a driver-oriented cockpit, available leather-appointed seating surfaces and a fold-flat front passenger's seat. Utility is furthered by numerous convenient storage and ultra-functionality features, including an oversized partitioned glove box, a large dual-level center console and an innovative rear cargo organizer. Available technology features include Intelligent Key, Bluetooth® Hands-Free Phone System, satellite radio and a powerful Bose®-developed audio system with AUX input and MP3 playback.
Rogue also offers a long list of standard safety features, including front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bags and roof-mounted curtain supplemental air bags for front and rear outboard occupants.
The 2008 Rogue is scheduled to go on sale in September 2007 at Nissan dealers nationwide.