Rogue

Make
Nissan
Segment
SUV

Following an extensive redesign in 2021, the popular Nissan Rogue has rolled into 2023 with minor trim changes, the addition of a new styling package, and, as you'd expect, high prices. But will an inflated price tag threaten the strong value of the compact SUV?

Well, thankfully, no. The entry-level Rogue S with front-wheel-drive still comes in at a palatable $27,360. Compared to the 2022 model, that only represents an increase of $210. The same price hike applies across the board, and AWD is available on all trims at an extra $1,500.

This makes the base model more expensive than the 2023 CX-5 ($26,800), but the Rogue is on par with the more rugged CX-50, which has a starting price of $27,550. It's worth noting the 2022 RAV4 Range kicks off at $26,695.

The 2023 Rogue SV now commands $29,050 but is the trim with the most changes for the new year. That's because the SV is the only trim with the option of a Midnight Edition Package for $1,535, which adds black exterior accents and badging, a high-gloss grille, black-painted 18-inch wheels, and leatherette seat upholstery.

SV models build on the S specification with larger wheels (base models receive 17-inch items), remote engine start, and ProPilot assist. But if you want to strike a fine balance between luxury and value, it's the SL grade that appeals most.

Starting at $33,710, the second plushest trim receives a standard panoramic sunroof, along with tri-zone climate control and 19-inch wheels. Should you find yourself wanting more, the SL is offered with an optional SL Premium Package ($1,530) that now includes Amazon Alexa capabilities.

However, if you're looking to purchase the poshest Rogue available, it's the Platinum trim that sits at the top of the pile. At $37,140, it differentiates itself with more in-car tech and luxury features.

Inside, you'll find semi-aniline leather seating, along with digital dials and Nissan's ProPilot Assist with Navi-Link. This clever system uses driving data and can adjust the vehicle's speed before exiting the highway, for example. This is also available as an option on the SL models. The new Amazon Alexa capabilities are, of course, standard on the Platinum model.

All models are powered by the same 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque.

Last year, the Rogue was one of the best-selling passenger vehicles in the country, with 285,602 examples, including Rogue Sports, leaving showroom floors We wouldn't be surprised if it posts even stronger sales figures this year. A leaked dealer document indicates the smaller Rogue Sport will be discontinued in North America.

According to an unnamed dealer, the Kicks is expected to pick up the slack but, for many, it will prove too small. Loyal Nissan fans may just shell out some extra cash for the larger Rogue or abandon ship entirely and look at rival brands. However, there's one rather prominent fly in the SUV's ointment - the all-new Honda CR-V.

When it arrives at the end of the year, it will most certainly steal some market share and continue the sales streak of its predecessor. Last year, Honda sold a staggering 361,271 examples - nearly 80,000 more than what Nissan achieved with the Rogue.