Thursday, July 8, 2010

2009 Nissan Rogue

2009 Nissan Rogue
2009 Nissan Rogue

Among the sea of other crossover SUVs on the market today is the Nissan Rogue. A sort of mini-Murano, the Rogue blurs the lines between car and SUV. Built off of a Nissan Sentra platform, the Murano’s little brother handles and acts like a car, but with the space and convenience of an SUV.

New for 2009

The 2009 Nissan Rogue is mostly unchanged from 2008, which was its first year. The only difference is more options for the SL trim such as a trip computer, speed-sensitive door locks, an outdoor temp display, dual-level center console tray, mood lighting, and a few other small things.

Options and Trims

Trim Levels

2009 Nissan Rogue

The 2009 Nissan Rogue comes in two trims: S and SL, both available in either front-wheel-drive (FWD) or all-wheel-drive (AWD). The S trim is the base model, coming standard with the basics: 16-inch steel wheels, A/C, cruise control, ABS, keyless entry, a tilt steering wheel, power accessories, and a basic 4-speaker sound system with auxiliary jack and a single disc CD player.

Stepping up into the SL trim gets you 17-inch alloy wheels, body-color power outside mirrors, roof rails, 6-way adjustable driver’s seat, rear tinted glass and a polished exhaust-tip. The Rogue SL will also give you additional options: Manual shift mode with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, HID headlights, trip computer, fog lights, Bose audio system with in-dash 6-CD changer and 8 speakers, XM Satellite Radio, Intelligent Key keyless entry and ignition, Bluetooth connectivity, leather seats, and a rear foldable cargo organizer. Many of these are in the form of a Premium package and Leather package. The SL upgrade will cost you around $1,500 more, plus the options.

Additional options for both trims include a power moonroof, rear spoiler, splash guards, and other accessories.

Engines and Drivetrain

Both the S and SL Rogues are powered by a 170 horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT.) There are no other options for the Rogue, but there doesn’t need to be. The drivetrain works fine and gets good fuel economy.