2008 Sport/Utility of the Year Contenders

As its name implies, the Nissan Rogue stands apart, particularly in the field we assembled this year. This brand-new Sentra-based cute 'ute is one of the smallest contestants-giving up 2400 pounds to the Toyota Land Cruiser and 19 inches in length to the Buick Enclave. Sure, the Jeep Patriot is a hair shorter and lighter and also brought an inline-four and continuous variable transmission to our shooting match, but all jurors agree, these two SUVs couldn't be more different.

For one thing, the Rogue is fun to drive-garnering much praise for its game paddle-shiftable CVT. "[The] engine is predictably buzzy," notes online editor Mike Floyd, "but it's a good buzz, especially with the CVT set to paddle-shift mode. It totally changes the character of the vehicle and makes the CVT much more fun when you shift it yourself."

More than one editor took note of the Rogue's tossability and small-car driving dynamics on the canyon twisties. "It's the most un-SUV-like SUV here," says Detroit editor Todd Lassa. "It's actually a versatile, tall commuter car more than anything else." An observation that's particularly true when considering the front-drive base model.

Our fully loaded SL AWD Rogue did show its off-road cred by scampering over some light trails with ease. Credit its lockable AWD system and light (for this group) 3500-pound curb weight.

Not surprising, given its small size, the Rogue is a bit tight in the back seat, though it does score high marks for its front- and rear-seat comfort. Interior styling was less well received, but it's still miles ahead of the Patriot's.

So with handsome, Murano-esque styling, a kickin' stereo, and cool features like a pop-up grocery-bag holder, what's not to love? Well, our selection criteria requires choosing a winner that not only stands out in the Class of 2008, but also shows significant improvement within its own category. Unfortunately, for the Rogue, the cute-'ute segment is one of the toughest. In its rookie year, the Rogue makes a strong case, but just doesn't separate itself enough from veteran heavyweights like Honda's CR-V and Toyota's RAV4.