The Daily Drivers: 2015 Nissan Rogue SL AWD<p></p>

The bottom line: We like the Rogue, we just wish it had a little more horsepower and a more driver-engaging ride. We've always considered the Nissan Rogue a stylish, fun-to-drive compact crossover — even though the only engine available is a four-cylinder. Since we last drove a Rogue, Nissan has given it a facelift, but we're not sure it's keeping up with the competition. Appearance: Nissan has added some family character to the Rogue, which now more closely resembles its big brother, the Murano. It's even confident enough to sport some bling in the form of a chrome U-shaped insert that dominates the grille and drops down from the bulging hood and extends to the bumper. In its center, the Nissan badge sits prominently. LED daylight running lights also flank the grille, with angles that complement the chrome. Overall, the Rogue has an athletic look with flowing character lines and muscular fenders. Our top-of-the-line SL-trim tester had 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels whose design makes the Rogue look like it's in motion even when parked. Performance: The 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder is a carryover from the previous Rogue. That's not necessarily a good thing. It puts out 170 horsepower, which is plenty for city driving, but we both wanted some more power especially for highway merging. The Rogue's transmission is still a CVT, which isn't our favorite. Nissan has traditionally done a good job with CVTs, and this one is no exception. But even with better sound insulation, it's still noisy on hard acceleration. Our all-wheel-drive tester gets an estimated 25 mph in the city and 32 on the highway; front-wheel-drive Rogues get 26/33. The steering feel is on the numb side and the Rogue is better in a straight line than when negotiating turns. The suspension is tuned solely for comfort. Our tester came with the SL Premium Package ($1,900) that includes LED headlights with auto-leveler, blind-spot warning, lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning and moving-object detection. Interior: Our tester had high-quality textured plastics and soft-touch surfaces that contributed to an upscale look and feel. This was a five-seater, but a third row is available as an option — not something you find in many compact crossovers. We found the interior generally spacious, although Peter thought the driver's seat sat on the high side. Our Rogue had a six-way power driver's seat with power lumbar support. The second-row seats slide forward and recline. In the five-seater, the Rogue gets the innovative Divide-N-Hide cargo solution. The cargo floor can be adjusted to various levels, or it can convert to dividers for more versatile storage. Nissan claims 18 different configurations with "multilevel shelving capability." The shelf doesn't always slide into the grooves well; you'll need both hands to line it up. Standard tech features include Bluetooth, USB, rearview camera and hands-free text-messaging assist. Our SL tester was further loaded with the NissanConnect infotainment system, which has a 7-inch touchscreen, navigation and satellite radio. It also had a panoramic moonroof.Our 3 favorites Peter Couture Interior: It looks upscale, especially in the SL trim with Almond Leather. Style: It's more substantial, with the grille especially an upgrade over the previous generation. Ride: It's comfortable, if not engaging. Lyra Solochek Parking aid: Around View Monitor includes an overhead view of the car. Interior: Great fit and finish, comfortable seats and intuitive controls. Gadget holder: Finally, a car with a slot that's wide enough to accommodate my iPhone 6 Plus. The bottom line: We like the Rogue, we just wish it had a little more horsepower and a more driver-engaging ride. Parking aid: Around View Monitor includes an overhead view of the car. Interior: Great fit and finish comfortable seats and intuitive controls. Gadget holder: Finally, a car with a slot that's wide enough to accommodate my iPhone 6 Plus. Peter Couture

The Daily Drivers: 2015 Nissan Rogue SL AWD<p></p>

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