Road Test: 2009 Nissan Rogue

Crossover utility vehicles (CUVs) are so hot today, so it’s no wonder Nissan introduced its five-seat sporty and rugged Rogue last year. New car buyers, it seems, pick the Rogue because of its high-spirited performance, fuel efficient engine (27 combined mpg), sporty good looks and the convenience of hatchback cargo room.

For 2009, the Rogue is virtually unchanged and that’s a good thing because the first-generation Nissan Rogue won a whole slew of awards, including “Best New Small Crossover” by Kiplinger’s magazine, Parents Magazine’s “Best Family Cars for 2008” award, AutoPacific Vehicle Satisfaction Award (VSA) for Compact Crossover SUV segment and MotorWeek’s “Driver’s Choice Award for Best Small Utility.”

“The Rogue had what we consider an All-Star rookie season, proving once again that the Nissan’s philosophy of providing good fuel efficiency and great driving performance in one high-value package resonates with today’s new vehicle buyers,” says Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager of Nissan North America.

Do I agree with the 2009 Nissan Rogue being a “high-value package”? Yes and no.

2009 Nissan Rogue Exterior

It seems to me, a female auto journalist and mother, the 2009 Nissan Rogue is designed for a male driver who is looking for a rugged, sporty look even if he’s just driving to the office.

Nissan describes the Rogue’s exterior design as “sleek,” “aggressive” and “sporty.” I’m not so sure about the Rogue looking too sleek with its beefy hood, rounded side lines and curvy back side. However, I do like how Nissan likens the Rogue to a “high-end designer briefcase or bag,” which doesn’t “scream utility at you.”

Yes, the 2009 Nissan Rogue does appeal to professional male types who still want sporty masculine styling with a punch of modern sophistication.

2009 Nissan Rogue Interior

Inside, the 2009 Nissan Rogue definitely appeals to guys. However, the mostly black-and-chrome front cockpit on my fully-loaded SL road test model can still appeal to the ladies with its cream-colored accents and seating.

The leather-wrapped steering wheel with built-in audio controls definitely makes you feel like you are ready for some sporty driving.

I also enjoyed the super minimalist gauges. An orange-colored computer between the gauges is at the ready to calculate distance-to-empty, average fuel consumption, average speed, elapsed time and outside temperature. Very cool!

Although my model did not include a infotainment and navigation system, I enjoyed the simplistic design of the central control with few buttons, handsome shift, hand cup holders, a cool niche for mobile devices and combination arm rest and deep storage compartment between the driver and passenger seats.

The second row seating provides enough leg room for average-sized people. However, if the driver or front passenger has very long legs, the second row passengers may be a bit cramped. Also, the second row seating is surprisingly narrow and even kids may find themselves shoulder-to-shoulder if three persons must sit in the back. Seat comfort is excellent, especially in the SL model’s leather upholstery.

The fold-down front passenger seat is helpful when hauling long items or for when a passenger needs ton of leg room and can sit in the back seat with the front passenger seat folded down.

The 60/40-split rear bench seats easily fold down flat and cargo room in the hatchback area is certainly big enough for long weekend getaways or trips to the grocery or hardware stores.

The SL also features a super cool automatic organizer that pops up with the push of a button form its hidden space below the cargo floor. This recessed space is great for grocery bags with its removable cargo nets.

2009 Nissan Rogue Performance

Amazingly, there is such a thing as a vehicle being too responsive. This is how I felt when driving the 2009 Nissan Rogue’s 2.4-liter, four-cylinder, all-wheel drive engine.

Acceleration from first gear was way too quick, making the vehicle lurch forward awkwardly for several days until I got used to the overly reactive accelerator pedal. Braking, as well, was a bit over responsive.

When getting onto the freeway, I floored the 2009 Nissan Rogue and discovered a very whiny drone sound to the engine until it hit the higher gears. Still, the acceleration for highway driving was certainly adequate.

In keeping with the super responsive theme, the 2009 Nissan Rogue definitely delivers excellent handling and steering. The four-wheel independent suspension is tight and makes for excellent torque through turns.

2009 Nissan Rogue Safety

The 2009 Nissan Rogue is packed with safety features including standard anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, front active head restraints, LATCH and Nissan’s advanced air bag system. The National Transportation Safety Administration awarded the 2009 Nissan Rogue five stars in driver crash tests, but just four stars in front passenger crash tests. All other crash and crash and rollover tests received top marks.

2009 Nissan Rogue Trim Levels & Options

The 2009 Nissan Rogue comes in two trim levels: S and SL. Both come standard with a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine, Nissan’s Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT), vehicle dynamic control and four-wheel anti-lock brakes. All-wheel drive is optional on both models.

The S model also comes standard with cruise control, tilt steering wheel, 16-inch steel wheels, air conditioning, keyless entry, power accessories and four-speaker audio system with auxiliary jack.

The SL trim level adds tinted windows, 17-inch alloy wheels, fold-down front passenger seat, trip computer, roof rails and a bi-level central console tray.

Options are available on the SL model only. The “premium package” includes a cargo cover, keyless ignition and entry, fog lights, Bluetooth connectivity, cargo organizer, steering wheel audio controls and a seven-speaker Bose audio system with six-CD changer, MP3 hook up and satellite radio. The “leather package” features all-leather upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel, six-way power driver seat, heated front seats, auto-dimming rear view mirror and heated side mirrors. The only stand-alone option is a sunroof.

Should you consider buying the 2009 Nissan Rogue? If you are in the market for a sporty, yet sophisticated CUV and you like super responsive performance, fuel efficiency and versatile cargo space, then the Rogue may be for you.

Sheryll Alexander is a lifestyles writer based in Costa Mesa, Calif. Follow me! @sheryllalexande