2013 Nissan Rogue SV AWD

“Let’s go get a Coke.” A loaded phrase that often doesn't really have the result of actually procuring said Coke. In my case, the same phrase often leads to a fun-filled evening with friends test driving new cars across the Utah/ Idaho border into Franklin or Preston from Logan for some dinner, snacks, or maybe even a little scratch off excitement.

This week’s vehicle allowed us to enjoy this adventurous test drive. This week’s test drive in a crossover, the Nissan Rogue, was successful in fitting four full-grown adults within its leather appointed, five seat configuration. In fact, the black leather with red stitching six-way power and heated driver’s seat with lumbar support didn't even have to be adjusted forward to accommodate the passenger in the rear. The only sliding going on was the glass, power-sliding moonroof enabling us to enjoy the cool summer evening temperatures of Northern Utah.

Nissan has done a great job equipping the Rogue with a 170-horsepower, 2.5 liter 4 cylinder engine with all wheel drive. The Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) is an efficient solution for conserving gas and enabling throttle responsiveness. You can expect the Rogue to get as high as 27 MPGs on the highway and about 22 MPGs in the city- with a combined gas mileage averaging 24 miles per gallon. 175 lb-ft of torque, plus sport mode with all wheel drive makes a great combination for a crossover in both summer or winter driving conditions.

The black amethyst Rogue that Nissan loaned me was fully-loaded from silver-accented roof rails, leather wrapped steering wheel to 18” aluminum alloy wheels. The navigation system with a 5” color touch-screen was complete with an around-view monitor and backup camera. Nissan placed four cameras on each side of the vehicle to show a bird’s eye view, assisting the driver in conquering any parking lot or driveway. The cameras can be automatically activated by driving in reverse or by manually pressing the button located on the center console which adjusts the side to side or front and rear views while traveling at slower speeds.

One upgrade that I have learned to appreciate is the option to “feel” rather than just listening to music. The seven speaker Bose Premium audio system including subwoofer utilizing SiriusXm ensures an uninterrupted, commercial free listening experience. If a custom playlist is desired, USB or wireless Bluetooth connectivity is achieved with the purpose of listening to stored MP3s or genres of music through satellite radio options such as Slacker or Pandora using a smart phone.

Whether it’s driving a crossover- or crossing over the border in a crossover the Nissan Rogue is a great budget-sensitive vehicle made ideally for a small family or four friends on a couple’s date. Either way, it is a great ride for all.

You can find the 2013 Nissan Rogue SV AWD at Wilson Motor Company located at 328 North Main in Logan. (866) 579-2209 See Wilson’s complete inventory on Cars435.com
Base MSRP: $26,050
Price as Driven: $30,965