What Changed for 2009:

• New speed-sensing auto power door locks
• Upgrades to the standard model
• Rogue SL models add driver computer and temperature display
• Rogue FWD SL models offer Leather package
• Rogue FWD Premium package adds Bluetooth

Overview
Launched as a 2008 model, the Nissan Rogue is a compact, 5-passenger, crossover sport utility vehicle. Smaller than its look-alike sibling, the midsize Nissan Murano, the Rogue targets buyers in their early 30s who need function and versatility, but aren’t yet willing to give up a fun ride, the maker explains. The Rogue was first seen in sketch at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in 2007 and debuted at the end of the year. In just its second model year, Nissan has only made minor option changes to the Rogue lineup for 2009. These include standard auto power door locks across the model range, and equipment changes to several of the option packages.

Nissan’s New Vehicle Limited Warranty covers the 2009 Nissan Rogue during the first 3 years/36,000 miles. A powertrain warranty extends to 5 years/60,000 miles. There is no deductible on either warranty, and towing may be reimbursed if the vehicle is less than 36 months old.

Model Lineup
The 2009 Nissan Rogue is available in four models: Rogue FWD S, Rogue AWD S, Rogue FWD SL and Rogue AWD SL. All variants share the same 4-cylinder engine and continuously variable transmission (CVT). The S and SL trim designations differentiate the equipment levels while the front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) labels refer to the drivetrain. Standard features on both FWD and AWD models include Nissan’s Vehicle Dynamic Control stability program, which includes traction control; manual tilt steering column; tow hooks; tire-pressure-monitoring system; power mirrors; body-colored bumpers/door handles/grille; halogen headlamps; fabric seats; 60/40 split/fold rear bench seat; AM/FM/CD audio system with auxiliary input jack and MP3 CD playback capability; power windows; power door locks; cruise control with redundant controls on the steering wheel; remote keyless entry; and an anti-theft system. Nissan added standard speed-sensing power door locks to all models for 2009.

Standard features included on the Rogue SL that are optional on the S are body-colored side-view mirrors, black privacy glass, roof rails, seatback pockets, and sun visors with vanity mirrors and covers. The Leather package is available in 2009 on FWD SL models. The S also gets standard 16-inch steel wheels with full covers, while the SL steps up to 17-inch alloy wheels with lower-profile tires.

Four options packages are offered: a Premium package available on both models includes a Bose audio system, paddle shifters, outside-temperature display, Bluetooth hands-free phone communication, and other niceties. A Moonroof package is optional on SL models.

Powertrain
All 2009 Rogue models use Nissan’s 2.5-liter, dual-overhead cam, 16-valve, inline 4-cylinder engine that produces 170 hp and 175 lb.-ft. of torque. The numbers change slightly, to 167 hp and 170 lb.-ft. of torque, when the vehicle conforms to California emissions rules. EPA mileage numbers are 21 mpg city/26 mpg highway in AWD, or 22 mpg city/27 mpg highway for the 2-wheel mode. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission, which provides smooth forward movement since no actual shifting takes place, the manufacturer explains.

The braking is done through vented discs front and rear, along with standard anti-lock brakes and electronic brake-force distribution. Steering is electric power rack-and-pinion. Because of the Rogue’s 105.9-inch wheelbase, turning diameter is 37.4 feet. The 4-wheel independent suspension with stabilizer bars is tuned to provide sporty ride and handling characteristics, Nissan says.

Safety
The 2009 Nissan Rogue incorporates Nissan’s Zone Body construction, designed to provide plenty of protection in the front and rear crumple-zone areas, according to the manufacturer. Standard air bag lineup includes dual-stage front, front-seat-mounted side-impact, and side curtain air bags with rollover detection. Front-seat active head restraints and 3-point seat belts with load limiters and pre-tensioners are also standard. The Rogue includes a standard engine immobilizer system as well as a perimeter anti-theft system.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the 2009 Nissan Rogue received 5 stars (the agency’s highest rating) in frontal crash testing for the driver and 4 stars for the front passenger. In side-impact testing, the Rogue earned 5-star scores for both front- and rear-seat occupants. The Rogue also received 4 stars for rollover resistance. When crash-tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the 2008-09 Nissan Rogue received a “Good” rating (the Institute’s highest score) in both frontal offset crash testing and side-impact testing.

Technology
Nissan’s Intelligent Key is an option on the 2009 Rogue. The wireless system allows the driver to unlock, lock and start the car without removing the key from pocket or purse. Bluetooth hands-free phone operation is also optional, as is the unique cargo organizer that stays hidden below the cargo floor, but pops up with a one-touch open system. A portion of the cargo floor snaps into a vertical position, revealing a flat, recessed space with removable vertical cargo nets.