The Nissan Rogue (known as the X-Trail in markets outside of North America) is a compact crossover SUV first introduced by Nissan in 2007 for the 2008 model year. The first generation, designated the S35 chassis code, was produced from 2007 through 2013. Within the S35 range, the 2.5i variant, powered by the QR25DE 2.5-liter inline-four engine and paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), represented the mainstream offering, positioned as the volume seller in the lineup. It served as the entry point to the Rogue family, offering a balance of practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability compared to potential future trim levels with optional equipment.
Nissan Rogue S35 2.5i: An Overview
The 2.5i model was a key component of Nissan’s strategy to enter the burgeoning compact crossover market. It aimed to appeal to families and individuals seeking a versatile vehicle with SUV-like space and functionality, but with the fuel economy and maneuverability of a smaller car. The S35 Rogue 2.5i was designed to compete with vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Subaru Forester. Production spanned from 2008 to 2011 in its original form, with minor updates occurring throughout the production run. The combination of the QR25DE engine and the CVT transmission was central to its appeal, offering a smooth and relatively efficient driving experience.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 2007-2011 Nissan Rogue 2.5i lies the QR25DE 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated powerplant featuring multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine’s bore measures 89 mm (3.5 inches) and the stroke is 100 mm (3.94 inches), resulting in a displacement of 2488 cm³ (151.83 cubic inches). The compression ratio is set at 10.5:1. The QR25DE is known for its relatively simple design and robust construction, contributing to its generally good reliability record.
The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. Power is transmitted through a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Nissan’s early generation CVTs, while offering smooth acceleration and improved fuel economy, were not without their critics. The CVT lacks traditional gear changes, instead utilizing a belt and pulley system to provide a seamless range of ratios. This allows the engine to operate at its most efficient point for any given driving condition. The QR25DE produces 170 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 174.8 lb-ft of torque at 4400 rpm. Engine oil capacity is 4.6 liters (4.86 US quarts / 4.05 UK quarts), and coolant capacity is 7.3 liters (7.71 US quarts / 6.42 UK quarts).
Driving Characteristics
The driving experience in the Rogue 2.5i CVT is characterized by smooth, linear acceleration. The CVT eliminates the shift shock associated with traditional automatic transmissions, providing a seamless power delivery. However, the CVT can sometimes feel less responsive than a conventional automatic, particularly during quick acceleration maneuvers. The 0-60 mph time is approximately 9.3 seconds, and 0-100 km/h takes around 9.8 seconds. The maximum speed is electronically limited to 200 km/h (124.27 mph).
Compared to a hypothetical manual transmission version (which was not offered in the US market for this generation), the CVT prioritizes fuel efficiency over outright performance. The CVT keeps the engine within its optimal power band, maximizing fuel economy. The weight-to-power ratio of 8.8 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 6.3 kg/Nm reflect the vehicle’s moderate performance capabilities. While not a sporty vehicle, the Rogue 2.5i CVT provides adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.5i trim level served as the base model for the Rogue. Standard equipment typically included air conditioning, power windows and locks, keyless entry, and a basic audio system with a CD player. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a straightforward design with easy-to-use controls. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a sunroof, a navigation system, and a premium audio system with a subwoofer. Later model years saw the introduction of available features like Bluetooth connectivity and a rearview camera. The Rogue 2.5i was designed to be a practical and affordable option, with the emphasis on functionality rather than luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Nissan Rogue S35 utilizes an independent coil spring suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality and decent handling characteristics. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are also ventilated discs. The braking system is equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. Steering is rack and pinion, providing responsive and accurate steering feel. Tire sizes varied depending on the trim level, with options including 215/70 R16, 225/60 R17, and 225/55 R18. Wheel rim sizes corresponded to the tire sizes, ranging from 6.5J x 16 to 7.0J x 18.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Rogue 2.5i CVT received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, the CVT transmission was a point of contention for some reviewers, who found it to be less engaging than a traditional automatic. Compared to other trims in the Rogue lineup, the 2.5i offered the most affordable entry point. It provided a good value for buyers who prioritized practicality and fuel economy over performance. Fuel consumption figures were rated at 10.4 l/100 km (22.6 US mpg / 27.2 UK mpg) in urban conditions and 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg / 40.9 UK mpg) in extra-urban conditions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Rogue |
| Generation | Rogue I (S35) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5i (170 Hp) CVT |
| Start of production | 2007 year |
| End of production | 2011 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.4 l/100 km (22.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 237 Nm @ 4400 rpm (174.8 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | QR25DE |
| Engine displacement | 2488 cm3 (151.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 100 mm (3.94 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.3 l (7.71 US qt | 6.42 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1488 kg (3280.48 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1969 kg (4340.9 lbs.) |
| Max load | 481 kg (1060.42 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1640 l (57.92 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4646 mm (182.91 in.) |
| Width | 1801 mm (70.91 in.) |
| Height | 1659 mm (65.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2690 mm (105.91 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.37 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
Legacy
The Nissan Rogue S35 2.5i CVT, while not without its quirks, proved to be a reliable and practical vehicle. The QR25DE engine, when properly maintained, is known for its longevity. Common issues with this generation Rogue often relate to the CVT transmission, with some owners experiencing premature failure. However, many units have surpassed 150,000 miles with minimal issues. On the used car market, the Rogue 2.5i remains an affordable and accessible option for buyers seeking a compact crossover. Its reputation for reliability and practicality continues to make it a popular choice, particularly for those seeking a budget-friendly vehicle with ample space and decent fuel economy.
