Used 2015 Nissan Rogue Select

The 2015 Rogue Select is a carryover version of the previous-generation model. Though Nissan introduced an all-new Rogue two years ago that offers improved fuel economy, more amenities and fresher design, the brand continues to sell this older-style for one major reason: pricing. With a starting cost around $21,000, the Rogue Select is nearly $3,000 below its newer sibling. This pricing strategy also enables the Rogue Select to undercut compact SUV rivals such as the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and even the Hyundai Tucson. Essentially an older Rogue, the Select is still a comfortable and practical vehicle that’s easy to drive. Options are limited on the Rogue Select, but it does come standard with an automatic transmission and is available with all-wheel drive for better traction.

Our time with a Nissan Rogue Select with all-wheel drive left us with mixed feelings. Nissan’s 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine is tried and true, but it’s falling behind the competition in both power and fuel efficiency. Initial acceleration is peppy, but overtaking slower traffic or climbing steep hills can be challenging. Helping make the most of the Rogue Select’s power is Nissan’s Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT). Because many drivers still are not used to a CVT’s gearless operation, Nissan has built in artificial shift points that mimic the way a traditional 5-speed automatic would shift. Only when the throttle is held wide open does the CVT’s true nature reveal itself, holding the engine rpm steady as the vehicle accelerates. On the road, the Rogue Select has a sedan-like ride, and the electric-assisted power steering returns proper feedback for accurately zipping through back roads.

The Rogue Select’s cabin is laid out well with two rows for five passengers. This makes more sense in a compact SUV, as we’ve found that others – including the regular Rogue – are cramped when a third row is shoehorned in. This Nissan’s front seats are comfortable, and there is good headroom and legroom. The rear seats, though, are not as roomy, especially when the fronts seats are all the way back. Storage space is ample, and there is a hidden cargo area behind the folding rear seat. Beware of the Rogue Select’s large D-pillar, which hampers rearward visibility.

The Rogue Select is technically an inch longer than the 2nd-generation Rogue that debuted two years ago, but its design and smaller width can make it appear smaller than the stylish new version. As the Select’s design dates to the original’s introduction in 2008, it goes without saying that this Nissan’s styling probably won’t turn too many heads. But the shape overall is still well-proportioned and handsome, and if you’re an optimist you might label it “familiar” instead of “aged.” Another reason to opt for the Convenience Package is that it adds roof rails for functionality and SUV style.

LOW COST
By design, the Rogue Select isn’t the freshest compact SUV on the market. But if you haven’t bought a vehicle in a few years, it’s still new enough. Moreover, it’s a new vehicle at a low price, one with a good record of dependability and a large dealer network.

CONVENIENCE PACKAGE
This package bundles many helpful features, and we highly recommend it for the price. For only $870, it adds a rearview monitor, cruise control and 6-speaker premium audio system with 4.3-inch display and iPod connectivity.

Offered in just one trim level, the 2015 Rogue Select comes with an automatic transmission, air conditioning, power windows and door locks, 6-way manually adjustable driver’s seat, remote keyless entry, tilt (but not telescoping) steering wheel and 16-inch steel wheels. Audio entertainment is provided by a 4-speaker AM/FM/CD system with an older-style auxiliary input.

Other than all-wheel drive, the biggest upgrade for the Rogue Select is the Convenience Package, which we recommend for its value. The package adds cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, 6-speaker audio system, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, roof rails and spoiler, and a rearview monitor. An Appearance Package adds 17-inch alloy wheels and privacy glass. Among the interesting accessories is a hatch tent that connects to the Rogue Select’s liftgate to make it ready for camping.

Picking an engine and transmission in a 2015 Rogue Select is easy, because there’s only one combination: a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The standard setup is front-wheel drive (FWD) and is well-suited for everyday driving. For those who need a vehicle that can tackle a variety of driving conditions and road surfaces, opting for all-wheel drive (AWD) grants better traction and results in only minimal reductions in fuel economy.

2.5-liter inline-4
170 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
175 lb-ft of torque @ 4,400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 23/28 mpg (FWD), 22/26 mpg (AWD)