Nissan Rogue research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide
The Rogue is a roomy, comfortable compact SUV with a flexible cargo area. 2011-2013 Rogues are older and smaller; the 2014-2020 generation is bigger, offered a small third row through 2017 and a Hybrid for 2017-2019, and made Safety Shield 360 standard from 2019. The 2021 redesign brought a much nicer cabin, and 2022+ models use a 201-hp turbo three-cylinder rated up to about 37 mpg highway. CVT condition matters on every year.
Model years covered: 2011–2026. 2026 adds a Rogue Plug-in Hybrid and a redesign is reported for 2027; verify 2026 trims, specs and pricing against current Nissan data.
Last updated 2026-10-15.
Strengths
- Roomy rear seat and cargo area
- Comfortable ride
- Available AWD
- Good fuel economy 2022 and later
- Standard safety shield 360 2019 and later
- Upscale cabin 2021 and later
- Affordable used prices
Things to know before you buy
- CVT condition and service history are critical
- Forward emergency braking complaints
- Vc turbo engine investigation 2022 and later
- Third row only 2014 2017
- Rogue sport is a different model
- Recall status should be checked by VIN
Generations
Generation 1 (2008–2013)
The first-generation Rogue used a 170-hp 2.5L four, a CVT and FWD or AWD in a compact two-row body; it was sold on as the Rogue Select for 2014-2015.
Buyer takeaway: Budget-friendly but older and smaller; buy on condition and CVT behavior.
Generation 2 (2014–2020)
The second generation grew in size, kept the 170-hp 2.5L and CVT, offered an optional third row for 2014-2017, added a 176-hp Hybrid for 2017-2019 with the 2017 refresh, ProPILOT Assist for 2018 and standard Safety Shield 360 for 2019.
Buyer takeaway: 2019-2020 offer the most standard safety equipment; check CVT service and test forward emergency braking.
Generation 3 (2021–2026)
The third generation brought an all-new, more upscale cabin; a 2.5L four for 2021 only, then a 201-hp 1.5L VC-Turbo three-cylinder from 2022; a 2024 refresh with new fascias and Google built-in; and a Plug-in Hybrid for 2026.
Buyer takeaway: Choose 2022+ for the best mileage and power, but confirm VC-Turbo recall and campaign status by VIN. A 2021 is the only one with the 2.5L.
Nissan Rogue by model year
2026 Nissan Rogue
The 2026 Rogue continues with the 201-hp 1.5L VC-Turbo, CVT and front- or all-wheel drive (about 30/37 mpg FWD). Nissan also added a Rogue Plug-in Hybrid closely related to the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV; verify its specifications against current Nissan data. A redesigned Rogue with Nissan's e-Power hybrid is reported for 2027.
- Engines: 1.5 liter vc turbo three cylinder 201 hp 225 lb ft; Plug in hybrid AWD variant verify specs
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable; Plug in hybrid single speed drive
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Rogue plug in hybrid added based on the mitsubishi outlander PHEV
- Final year before a reported 2027 redesign
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact trim engine and drivetrain by VIN; Vc turbo engine noise oil condition and service records; CVT fluid service records; CVT shudder whine or hesitation on road test; AWD system operation if equipped; Forward emergency braking false alerts and sensor condition; PHEV charging and battery health if plug in; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Liftgate and cargo area; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2025 Nissan Rogue
The 2025 Rogue carries over the refreshed 2024 design with the 201-hp VC-Turbo three-cylinder, CVT and front- or all-wheel drive. The Rock Creek trim adds rugged styling and all-wheel drive but trims fuel economy to about 27/32 mpg, versus about 30/37 for a regular FWD Rogue. Confirm warranty status and recall completion by VIN.
- Engines: 1.5 liter vc turbo three cylinder 201 hp 225 lb ft
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2024
- Rock creek off road styled trim offered
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact trim engine and drivetrain by VIN; Vc turbo engine noise oil condition and service records; CVT fluid service records; CVT shudder whine or hesitation on road test; AWD system operation if equipped; Forward emergency braking false alerts and sensor condition; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Liftgate and cargo area; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2024 Nissan Rogue
The 2024 refresh gave the Rogue redesigned front and rear fascias and updated technology, including Google built-in on upper trims. It keeps the 201-hp 1.5L VC-Turbo three-cylinder, CVT, and front- or all-wheel drive (about 30/37 mpg FWD). Check the VIN for open recalls and confirm the exact trim and features.
- Engines: 1.5 liter vc turbo three cylinder 201 hp 225 lb ft
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Redesigned front and rear fascias
- Google built in on upper trims verify by VIN
- Rugged rock creek trim verify availability by VIN
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact trim engine and drivetrain by VIN; Vc turbo engine noise oil condition and service records; CVT fluid service records; CVT shudder whine or hesitation on road test; AWD system operation if equipped; Forward emergency braking false alerts and sensor condition; Infotainment and smartphone integration; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Liftgate and cargo area; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2023 Nissan Rogue
The 2023 Rogue uses a 1.5L variable-compression turbocharged three-cylinder (VC-Turbo) with 201 hp and 225 lb-ft, more than the 2021's 2.5L, and better mileage: about 30/37 mpg with FWD. It keeps the CVT and front- or all-wheel drive. NHTSA opened an investigation into VC-Turbo engine failures in December 2023, so check the VIN for recalls and look for oil-change records.
- Engines: 1.5 liter vc turbo three cylinder 201 hp 225 lb ft
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2022
- Vc turbo three cylinder continues
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact trim engine and drivetrain by VIN; Vc turbo engine noise oil condition and service records; CVT fluid service records; CVT shudder whine or hesitation on road test; AWD system operation if equipped; Forward emergency braking false alerts and sensor condition; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Liftgate and cargo area; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2022 Nissan Rogue
The 2022 Rogue uses a 1.5L variable-compression turbocharged three-cylinder (VC-Turbo) with 201 hp and 225 lb-ft, more than the 2021's 2.5L, and better mileage: about 30/37 mpg with FWD. It keeps the CVT and front- or all-wheel drive. NHTSA opened an investigation into VC-Turbo engine failures in December 2023, so check the VIN for recalls and look for oil-change records.
- Engines: 1.5 liter vc turbo three cylinder 201 hp 225 lb ft
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact SUV
What changed:
- New 1.5 liter variable compression turbo three cylinder
- More power and better mpg than the 2.5 liter
- About 30 37 mpg with FWD
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact trim engine and drivetrain by VIN; Vc turbo engine noise oil condition and service records; CVT fluid service records; CVT shudder whine or hesitation on road test; AWD system operation if equipped; Forward emergency braking false alerts and sensor condition; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Liftgate and cargo area; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2021 Nissan Rogue
The 2021 Rogue was all-new, with a far nicer cabin, more technology and standard Safety Shield 360. It is the only year of this generation with a 2.5L four-cylinder (about 181 hp) and CVT, rated about 27/34 mpg with FWD. Front- and all-wheel drive are offered. It suits buyers who want the new design without the 2022+ three-cylinder turbo.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 181 hp
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact SUV
What changed:
- All new third generation
- Much upgraded interior and technology
- New 2.5 liter direct injection four
- Available digital gauge cluster and head up display
- Only year of the 2.5 liter in this generation
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact trim engine and drivetrain by VIN; CVT fluid service records; CVT shudder whine or hesitation on road test; AWD system operation if equipped; Forward emergency braking false alerts and sensor condition; Infotainment and smartphone integration; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Liftgate and cargo area; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2020 Nissan Rogue
The 2020 Rogue is the last of the second generation, with the 170-hp 2.5L four, CVT and front- or all-wheel drive (about 26/33 mpg FWD) and standard Safety Shield 360. It is a good value if priced below the redesigned 2021, which has a nicer cabin and more technology. Check CVT behavior and service records.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 170 hp 175 lb ft
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Last year of the second generation
- Hybrid no longer offered
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact trim engine and drivetrain by VIN; CVT fluid service records; CVT shudder whine or hesitation on road test; AWD system operation if equipped; Forward emergency braking false alerts and sensor condition; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Liftgate and cargo area; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2019 Nissan Rogue
For 2019 Nissan made its Safety Shield 360 suite, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot warning and rear automatic braking, standard on every Rogue. Engines carry over: the 170-hp 2.5L (about 26/33 mpg FWD) or the 176-hp Hybrid, which ended after this year and was rated about 33/35 mpg FWD.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 170 hp 175 lb ft; 2.0 liter I4 hybrid 176 hp combined
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Safety shield 360 made standard
- Last year of the rogue hybrid
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact trim engine and drivetrain by VIN; CVT fluid service records; CVT shudder whine or hesitation on road test; AWD system operation if equipped; Forward emergency braking false alerts and sensor condition; Hybrid system and battery warnings if hybrid; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Liftgate and cargo area; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2018 Nissan Rogue
The 2018 Rogue continues with the 170-hp 2.5L and CVT (about 29 mpg combined FWD) or the 176-hp Hybrid, with front- or all-wheel drive. Nissan's ProPILOT Assist, which combines adaptive cruise and lane centering, became available on upper trims, and the third-row seat was dropped. Test the forward emergency braking for false alerts.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 170 hp 175 lb ft; 2.0 liter I4 hybrid 176 hp combined
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Propilot assist driver aid available
- Third row seat discontinued
- Rogue hybrid continues
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact trim engine and drivetrain by VIN; CVT fluid service records; CVT shudder whine or hesitation on road test; AWD system operation if equipped; Forward emergency braking false alerts and sensor condition; Hybrid system and battery warnings if hybrid; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Liftgate and cargo area; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2017 Nissan Rogue
The 2017 refresh brought new front and rear styling, standard LED daytime running lights, more available safety tech, and the first Rogue Hybrid (2.0L four plus electric motor, 176 hp combined, about 33-34 mpg combined). The regular Rogue keeps the 170-hp 2.5L and CVT. It is the last year for the optional third row. NHTSA investigated false automatic braking reports on 2017-2018 Rogues.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 170 hp 175 lb ft; 2.0 liter I4 hybrid 176 hp combined
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Refreshed styling with new headlights and taillights
- Standard LED daytime running lights
- Rogue hybrid added
- Last year for the optional third row
- Smaller rogue sport launched as a separate model
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact trim engine and drivetrain by VIN; CVT fluid service records; CVT shudder whine or hesitation on road test; AWD system operation if equipped; Forward emergency braking false alerts and sensor condition; Hybrid system and battery warnings if hybrid; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Liftgate and cargo area; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2016 Nissan Rogue
The 2016 Rogue carries over the 2014 redesign: a 170-hp 2.5L four with a CVT, front- or all-wheel drive, and an optional small third-row seat. It offers a roomy cabin and flexible cargo area at a lower price than the refreshed 2017+ models. Fuel economy is about 26/33 mpg with FWD. CVT condition and service records matter most.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 170 hp 175 lb ft
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Optional third row seat continues
- Feature and package updates verify by VIN
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact trim engine and drivetrain by VIN; CVT fluid service records; CVT shudder whine or hesitation on road test; AWD system operation if equipped; Third row seat operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Liftgate and cargo area; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2015 Nissan Rogue
The 2015 Rogue carries over the 2014 redesign: a 170-hp 2.5L four with a CVT, front- or all-wheel drive, and an optional small third-row seat. It offers a roomy cabin and flexible cargo area at a lower price than the refreshed 2017+ models. Fuel economy is about 26/33 mpg with FWD. CVT condition and service records matter most.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 170 hp 175 lb ft
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Optional third row seat continues
- Feature and package updates verify by VIN
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact trim engine and drivetrain by VIN; CVT fluid service records; CVT shudder whine or hesitation on road test; AWD system operation if equipped; Third row seat operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Liftgate and cargo area; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2014 Nissan Rogue
The 2014 Rogue was all-new: bigger, roomier and more efficient, with the same 170-hp 2.5L four and a CVT (about 26/33 mpg with FWD) and available AWD. A small optional third-row seat could be ordered on 2014-2017 models, a rarity in the class. The previous design continued as the cheaper Rogue Select. Check CVT operation carefully on a test drive.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 170 hp 175 lb ft
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact SUV
What changed:
- All new second generation
- Larger and roomier with divide n hide cargo system
- Optional third row seat available 2014 2017
- Fuel economy up to about 33 mpg highway
- Older design sold alongside as rogue select
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact trim engine and drivetrain by VIN; CVT fluid service records; CVT shudder whine or hesitation on road test; AWD system operation if equipped; Third row seat operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Liftgate and cargo area; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2013 Nissan Rogue
The 2013 Rogue is a first-generation (2008-2013) compact SUV with a 170-hp, 175 lb-ft 2.5L four-cylinder, a CVT automatic and front- or all-wheel drive, rated roughly 22-23 mpg city and 26-28 mpg highway. It is smaller inside than later Rogues and has two rows only. Now an older vehicle, it should be bought on condition, CVT behavior and service history. The same design was sold new for 2014-2015 as the Rogue Select.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 170 hp 175 lb ft
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Last year of the first generation
- Design continued as the 2014 2015 rogue select
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact trim engine and drivetrain by VIN; CVT fluid service records; CVT shudder whine or hesitation on road test; AWD system operation if equipped; Rust and underbody condition; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Liftgate and cargo area; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2012 Nissan Rogue
The 2012 Rogue is a first-generation (2008-2013) compact SUV with a 170-hp, 175 lb-ft 2.5L four-cylinder, a CVT automatic and front- or all-wheel drive, rated roughly 22-23 mpg city and 26-28 mpg highway. It is smaller inside than later Rogues and has two rows only. Now an older vehicle, it should be bought on condition, CVT behavior and service history.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 170 hp 175 lb ft
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Special edition packages verify by VIN
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact trim engine and drivetrain by VIN; CVT fluid service records; CVT shudder whine or hesitation on road test; AWD system operation if equipped; Rust and underbody condition; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Liftgate and cargo area; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2011 Nissan Rogue
The 2011 Rogue is a first-generation (2008-2013) compact SUV with a 170-hp, 175 lb-ft 2.5L four-cylinder, a CVT automatic and front- or all-wheel drive, rated roughly 22-23 mpg city and 26-28 mpg highway. It is smaller inside than later Rogues and has two rows only. Now an older vehicle, it should be bought on condition, CVT behavior and service history.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 170 hp 175 lb ft
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Minor styling update for 2011
- Available around view monitor on upper trims verify by VIN
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact trim engine and drivetrain by VIN; CVT fluid service records; CVT shudder whine or hesitation on road test; AWD system operation if equipped; Rust and underbody condition; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Liftgate and cargo area; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
Known issues and what to check
- Xtronic CVT Shudder, Whine and Hesitation (2011–2026)
Every gas Rogue in this period uses Nissan's CVT. Owners, especially of older and higher-mileage Rogues, report shudder, whining, hesitation or loss of power, and CVT replacement is expensive. Nissan has extended CVT coverage on some models in the past; ask a Nissan dealer whether any extension still applies to the VIN.
What to do: Test drive in stop-and-go and highway driving and favor Rogues with documented CVT fluid service. - Forward Emergency Braking False Activations (2017–2026)
NHTSA opened an investigation in 2019 into complaints that the automatic emergency braking on 2017-2018 Rogues braked for no reason, and Nissan has issued multiple service bulletins and software updates for forward emergency braking. Later Rogues also draw some complaints. Behavior varies by vehicle.
What to do: Test drive on the highway and ask a Nissan dealer whether updates apply to the VIN. - 1.5L VC-Turbo Engine Failure Investigation (2022–2026)
In December 2023 NHTSA opened an investigation into complaints of engine failure on Nissan VC-Turbo engines, including the 1.5L three-cylinder used in the Rogue since 2022, citing knocking, loss of power and metal shavings in the oil linked to bearing damage. Check the VIN for any recall or service campaign that has followed.
What to do: Confirm recall and campaign status by VIN and look for regular oil changes before buying a 2022+ Rogue. - Rogue Hybrid System Check (2017-2019) (2017–2019)
The 2017-2019 Rogue Hybrid adds a battery pack and electric motor to a 2.0L engine. It was sold in small numbers, so parts and technician familiarity are more limited than for the regular Rogue. Confirm the hybrid system is healthy and warning-free.
What to do: Have a Nissan dealer check the hybrid system before buying a Rogue Hybrid. - Age and Mileage Wear on 2011-2016 Rogues (2011–2016)
Older Rogues are now inexpensive but can need suspension bushings, wheel bearings, AWD coupling service, brakes and A/C work. Rust in snow-belt states is also worth checking.
What to do: Get a pre-purchase inspection on older, higher-mileage Rogues. - Rogue, Rogue Sport and Rogue Select Disambiguation (2011–2026)
This record covers the regular Rogue. The Rogue Select (2014-2015) was the older first-generation design sold alongside the new model, and the Rogue Sport (2017-2022) is a smaller, separate SUV. Engines changed: 2.5L four through 2021, Hybrid 2017-2019, 1.5L VC-Turbo from 2022, and a Plug-in Hybrid for 2026.
What to do: Confirm the exact model, year, engine and trim before comparing prices or specs.
Recalls
Recall applicability varies by model year, production date, engine, equipment and VIN. Check the VIN for open recalls and service campaigns, especially on 2022+ VC-Turbo models.
Similar vehicles to consider
- Toyota RAV4
- Honda CR-V
- Mazda CX-5
- Hyundai Tucson
- Kia Sportage
- Subaru Forester
- Ford Escape
- Chevrolet Equinox
- Volkswagen Tiguan
- Mitsubishi Outlander
- Nissan Rogue Sport
Questions this guide answers
- What generation is this Nissan Rogue?
- What engine does this Rogue have?
- Is the Rogue's CVT reliable, and what should I check?
- Which Rogue years have a third row?
- What is the difference between the Rogue, Rogue Sport and Rogue Select?
- Is the 1.5L VC-Turbo three-cylinder a concern?
- What changed in the 2017, 2021, 2022 and 2024 Rogue?
- What fuel economy does the Rogue get?
- What recalls should I check by VIN?
- What similar vehicles should I consider?