2017 Nissan Rogue Overview
The 2017 Nissan Rogue is a compact crossover SUV that aims to provide practicality, comfort, and a touch of premium feel for families and individuals alike. It entered its second generation with a refresh in 2017, offering updated styling and features.
Highlights
Engine: The 2017 Rogue is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 170 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which Nissan often tunes for smooth acceleration and fuel efficiency. While not the most powerful engine in its class, it's generally adequate for daily driving and highway cruising. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available on all trims.
Safety Features:
- Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): This system uses sensors to detect potential frontal collisions and can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid an impact, significantly enhancing safety.
- Blind Spot Warning (BSW): Alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots, making lane changes safer and more confident.
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA): Detects approaching traffic from the sides when the vehicle is backing up, providing an audible and visual warning.
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW): Alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without a turn signal activated.
- Intelligent Trace Control: This feature automatically applies subtle braking to individual wheels to help the Rogue navigate corners more smoothly and precisely, enhancing stability.
- Active Ride Control: Works with the engine and brakes to automatically apply braking and adjust engine torque to smooth out bumps and improve ride quality.
- Hill Start Assist: Prevents the vehicle from rolling backward when starting on an incline.
Trim Summary:
- S: The base trim offers essential features like a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 5-inch color display. It's a solid entry-level option for those prioritizing functionality.
- SV: This mid-tier trim builds upon the S by adding dual-zone automatic climate control, a power-adjustable driver's seat, keyless entry and ignition, and a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The SV trim is often considered the sweet spot for value.
- SL: The top-tier SL trim adds a premium touch with leather seating, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a power liftgate, a surround-view camera system, and a Bose premium audio system. It also includes most of the advanced safety features as standard or available options.
Other Notable Aspects:
- Kicking Motion Liftgate (SL Trim): The SL trim features a hands-free power liftgate that can be opened by kicking your foot under the rear bumper, a convenient feature when your hands are full.
- Divide-N-Hide Cargo System: The Rogue offers a versatile cargo management system that allows for adjustable cargo shelves and dividers to customize the storage space.
- Comfortable Ride: The Rogue is generally praised for its comfortable and quiet ride, making it a pleasant vehicle for long commutes or road trips.
What to Expect
A typical ownership experience with the 2017 Nissan Rogue is characterized by its user-friendliness and comfort. It's designed to be an easy vehicle to drive and live with, offering a good balance of practicality for everyday tasks.
Maintenance: Routine maintenance for the Rogue will involve oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements, which are typical for most compact SUVs. Nissan vehicles generally have a good reputation for reliability, but it's always advisable to follow the recommended maintenance schedule to ensure longevity. The CVT, while smooth, can be a point of concern for some owners regarding long-term durability compared to traditional automatic transmissions, so adherence to fluid change schedules is particularly important.
Insurance: Insurance costs will vary based on individual factors such as driving record, location, and coverage choices. However, as a popular and generally safe vehicle, the 2017 Rogue typically falls within the average insurance cost range for its segment. The availability of advanced safety features can sometimes contribute to lower insurance premiums due to their accident-avoidance capabilities.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 Nissan Rogue offers many appealing qualities, there are a few potential considerations buyers should be aware of:
- CVT Performance: The CVT, while fuel-efficient, can sometimes feel less engaging or "rubbery" to drivers accustomed to traditional transmissions. During hard acceleration, it can also produce a droning sound.
- Engine Power: The 2.5-liter engine is adequate but not particularly sporty. For those seeking more spirited acceleration or carrying heavy loads frequently, the Rogue might feel a bit underpowered.
- Infotainment System Responsiveness: While improved with the 2017 refresh, the infotainment system's responsiveness can occasionally lag compared to some competitors.
- Road Noise: While generally quiet, some road noise can penetrate the cabin on rougher road surfaces, especially at higher speeds.
Overall Summary
The 2017 Nissan Rogue is a competent and comfortable compact crossover that prioritizes practicality and a smooth driving experience. Its generous list of available safety features, particularly on the higher trims, makes it an attractive option for safety-conscious buyers. The versatile cargo space and comfortable interior add to its appeal as a family-friendly vehicle. While the CVT and engine power might not excite enthusiasts, they serve their purpose well for everyday commuting and family duties, making the Rogue a sensible and well-rounded choice in its segment.
