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Looking for a Pre-Owned Nissan Rogue? These Are the Best Years

You can’t go wrong with a pre-owned Nissan Rogue, but some years may be better than others. We break down some of the best years in this guide.

If you’re shopping for a dependable compact SUV that balances value, comfort, and fuel efficiency, the Nissan Rogue is one of the most popular choices on the road today. For families, commuters, and weekend explorers alike, the Rogue’s roomy interior, suite of safety features, and excellent fuel economy make it one of the best compact crossovers on the market. And thanks to its solid reliability, buying used is a great way to stretch your dollar further.

But if you’re thinking about buying used, you’re probably wondering, “What is the best year for a used Nissan Rogue?” The good news is that there are several great model years to choose from. Let’s walk through the best years for Nissan Rogue shoppers to consider, what makes them stand out, and how you can find one that fits your lifestyle and budget. 

Generations of the Nissan Rogue

The Nissan Rogue has been around since 2008, and over three generations, it has grown into one of the most trusted compact SUVs on the road. Here’s how the Rogue has evolved, and what improvements you’ll find from one generation to the next. 

First Generation (2008–2013)

When the Rogue first debuted, it quickly found a home among drivers seeking a versatile and affordable compact SUV. It offered good fuel economy for the time and a comfortable ride for everyday commuting. However, earlier models were more basic in terms of tech and safety features. 

Key Features:

  • All-wheel drive (AWD) or front-wheel drive (FWD)
  • 2.5-liter, 170-horsepower four-cylinder engine
  • 22-28 MPG
  • CVT transmission

Best For: Budget-focused buyers who need reliable transportation for short trips, but these aren’t typically the most recommended Rogue models if long-term dependability is your top priority — after all, they’re over 12 years old now. 

Second Generation (2014–2020)

This generation is where the Rogue really hit its stride and became one of Nissan’s best sellers. A redesign brought a sharper exterior look and a bigger interior — perfect for families needing extra space for road trips or gear for a weekend at Mustang Island. 

Key Improvements: 

  • Safety: Advanced driver-assist systems were available, including blind spot warning, lane departure warning, and Nissan’s ProPilot Assist (introduced in 2018). 
  • Technology: Infotainment systems improved, and the 2018 model solidified Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard features. 
  • Reliability: By the 2017 model year, Nissan had refined their CVT, improving long-term ownership confidence. 
  • Fuel Economy: The second-generation Rogues received a significant boost in fuel efficiency, often achieving numbers over 30 MPG on the highway. 

Best For: Families and commuters who want a balance of affordability, space, and advanced features without breaking the bank. 

Third Generation (2021–Present)

Nissan raised the bar for refinement and performance with the latest Rogue generation. A brand-new redesign also gave it a more modern, upscale look and feel that rivals more expensive compact crossovers, while still delivering excellent value. 

Key Improvements: 

  • Performance and Fuel Economy: Nissan simultaneously downsized the Rogue’s engine and boosted its performance. Starting in 2022, a 1.5-liter turbocharged, variable compression, three-cylinder engine powered the Rogue. This engine punches well above its size, delivering a strong 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque. Thanks to its smaller engine, it boasts exceptional fuel efficiency (33–37 MPG highway). 
  • Safety: Third-generation Rogues come standard with Nissan Safety Shield® 360 — a suite of driver assistance and safety tech that includes features like automatic emergency braking, rear cross traffic alerts, and more. This focus on safety earned the 2021–2023 Nissan Rogue models a Top Safety Pick (or higher) award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)
  • Technology: The newest generation offers upgraded infotainment systems with larger touchscreens/digital displays, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and more. 
  • Comfort: More premium interior finishes and quieter rides can be found in these newer Rogues — perfect for longer drives along the Texas Coast. 

Best For: Drivers who want the latest features, most power, excellent fuel efficiency, and a long-term investment in a modern SUV. 

The Best Year for Nissan Rogue: Top Picks

2017 Nissan Rogue: Proven and Cost-Effective

The 2017 model year is often regarded as one of the best years for the Nissan Rogue. By this point, the CVT transmission had been improved for smoother performance and fewer long-term concerns. 

Highlights of the 2017 Rogue: 

  • Available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive
  • Excellent safety ratings (Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS) and available driver-assist features
  • Solid fuel economy (estimated 28 MPG combined)
  • Comfortable interior

2020 Nissan Rogue: Safety Tech and Comfort

The 2020 Nissan Rogue is another excellent choice, bringing proven reliability and advanced technology to an already great platform. 

Highlights of the 2020 Rogue:

  • Even more advanced driver assistance and safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and more 
  • Spacious cabin and cargo area for families or active lifestyles
  • Great fuel efficiency (29 MPG combined FWD, 27 MPG combined AWD)

2023 Nissan Rogue: Modern Power and Technology

If your budget allows for a newer model, 2023 is the best year for the Nissan Rogue, in our opinion. It offers the best blend of performance, tech, and comfort in the Rogue lineup. 

Highlights of the 2023 Rogue: 

  • Turbocharged engine with 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque — the same performance you’d get from a brand-new 2026 model!
  • Excellent fuel efficiency (33 MPG combined)
  • Premium interior touches and advanced infotainment
  • Nissan’s latest safety and driver-assistance systems, including Safety Shield® 360

On the Fence About Buying Used?

One of the biggest concerns when purchasing a pre-owned vehicle is whether it will hold up in the long term. 

Still, to ensure maximum reliability, consider buying from a reputable dealership, rather than a third-party seller. At Ed Hicks Nissan, you can choose from certified pre-owned Nissan Rogues that have been thoroughly inspected and offer a variety of warranty coverage, so that you can be sure your Rogue will be with you for the long haul. 

Get in the Driver’s Seat at Ed Hicks Nissan

We know shopping for a pre-owned SUV is about more than just finding the lowest price. It’s about finding a vehicle that’s reliable, fits your lifestyle, and keeps you exploring without worry. That’s why we offer:

  • A wide range of inspected, quality pre-owned Rogues — including certified options
  • Transparent pricing so you know exactly what you’re getting and how much you’re getting it for
  • Flexible financing options to fit your budget
  • A service team to keep your Rogue ready for every adventure

So, if you’re near Corpus Christi and in the market for a used Nissan Rogue, trust the team at Ed Hicks Nissan to guide you to the best model years and deals available. Stop by today to explore our current inventory!

Ed Hicks Nissan

3000 South Padre Island Drive
Corpus Christi, TX 78415

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