2023 Nissan Rogue Manual: A Comprehensive Guide to One of the Best SUVs Around

The 2023 Nissan Rogue has been making waves as one of the top choices in the SUV market. For good reason too. With its sleek design efficient engine options and user-friendly technology this compact SUV is hitting the sweet spot for both city drivers and those seeking adventure. However like any vehicle, the Rogue isn’t without a few drawbacks. If you’re interested in the 2023 Nissan Rogue manual version, we’re here to give you an in-depth look, and yes, it’s as exciting as it sounds.

Overview of the 2023 Nissan Rogue

The 2023 Nissan Rogue is Nissan's answer to the growing demand for compact SUVs that offer versatility, comfort, and reliability. This model comes equipped with advanced technology and is powered by a fuel-efficient three-cylinder turbocharged engine. If you're looking for a car that can handle both city streets and backroads with ease, then this could be the car for you.

What’s New for 2023?

The 2023 Rogue doesn’t bring any massive changes compared to its predecessor, but there are a few key updates:

• Improved infotainment system with a larger touchscreen.
• Better fuel efficiency thanks to a refined engine.
• More interior space for added comfort.

Key Specifications

• Engine: 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine.
• Transmission: CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), though we're diving into the manual option here.
• Horsepower: 201 hp.
• Fuel Efficiency: 30 mpg city, 37 mpg highway.

The Manual Transmission: Is It Still Relevant?

When you think of a compact SUV like the Rogue, a manual transmission might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, for drivers who enjoy more control over their vehicle and prefer that old-school driving experience, the manual option can be a tempting proposition.

Why Choose the Manual Version?

There are a few solid reasons why someone might opt for the manual transmission in the 2023 Rogue:

1. Greater control: Manual transmissions give the driver more control over the car’s power and performance.
2. Fuel efficiency: While modern CVTs are highly efficient, manual transmissions often provide better fuel economy under certain driving conditions.
3. Lower maintenance costs: Manuals tend to have fewer components that can break down, making them cheaper to repair and maintain in the long run.

Potential Drawbacks of the Manual Version

However, let’s not sugarcoat things. There are some potential downsides to consider if you're opting for the manual version of the Rogue:

1. Limited availability: Not all dealerships offer the manual version, which can make it harder to find.
2. Resale value: Manual cars typically have a smaller market, and this could affect the car’s resale value down the line.
3. Driver fatigue: If you live in a city with heavy traffic, constantly shifting gears can become tiring pretty quickly.

Alex Collantes, an automotive enthusiast, said, "The manual option in the Rogue brings back a nostalgic feeling of driving that many of us miss. But if you're doing a lot of city driving, it might wear you out faster than you think."

Design and Comfort: Stylish Yet Functional

When it comes to the design of the 2023 Rogue, Nissan has managed to strike the perfect balance between stylish looks and functionality. The exterior is modern and sleek with its signature V-motion grille and sharp LED headlights. The Rogue certainly looks more premium than its price tag might suggest.

Interior Space and Comfort

Inside the 2023 Rogue, the cabin feels spacious and well thought out. Nissan has focused on providing maximum comfort for both the driver and passengers.

• Ample legroom: The front seats are spacious, and the rear seats offer plenty of legroom for adults.
• Cargo space: With up to 74.1 cubic feet of cargo space (with the rear seats down), the Rogue is perfect for families or those who need extra storage.
• Soft-touch materials: High-quality materials give the cabin a more upscale feel, especially in the higher trims.

Is It Family-Friendly?

For families, the Rogue offers a lot of appeal. There’s room for strollers, groceries, and the occasional camping gear. The easy-to-use infotainment system ensures kids are entertained on long trips while the advanced safety features give parents peace of mind.

Technology and Infotainment: Easy to Use and Full of Features

In today's world, we rely heavily on technology, and the 2023 Nissan Rogue doesn’t disappoint in this area. Nissan has packed this SUV with a variety of user-friendly tech that makes driving easier and more enjoyable.

Infotainment System

The base model comes with an 8-inch touchscreen, while higher trims get a larger 9-inch display. Both options are responsive and easy to navigate.

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Standard across all trims.
• Wireless charging: Available in higher trims.
• Digital dashboard: An available 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster that adds a modern touch.

Nissan Safety Shield 360

Safety has always been a priority for Nissan, and the Rogue comes equipped with Nissan’s Safety Shield 360, which includes:

• Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection.
• Rear cross-traffic alert.
• Blind-spot monitoring.
• Lane departure warning.

Potential Drawbacks

• The base model lacks some of the more advanced features like pro-pilot assist, so if you’re after all the bells and whistles, you’ll need to go for a higher trim.
• The touchscreen could be a little laggy, especially when running multiple functions like navigation and media simultaneously.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency: Smooth Ride But Could Be More Exciting

When it comes to performance, the 2023 Nissan Rogue doesn’t aim to be a sports car. It's more about comfort and fuel efficiency. The 1.5-liter turbocharged engine provides 201 horsepower, which is enough for everyday driving but don't expect to break any speed records.

Fuel Efficiency

The manual version of the Rogue offers impressive fuel efficiency, especially for an SUV. You can expect to get around 30 mpg in the city and up to 37 mpg on the highway.

Is the Ride Smooth?

Thanks to its refined suspension, the Rogue offers a smooth ride. It easily absorbs bumps in the road, making it a great choice for families or commuters. However, if you’re after a more engaging driving experience, you might find the Rogue a bit underwhelming.

Potential Drawbacks

• Acceleration: Some drivers may find the engine a bit sluggish, especially when trying to overtake on the highway.
• Handling: While the Rogue is stable and predictable, it's not exactly exciting to drive. It’s a little too soft around corners for those who prefer a sportier feel.

Trims and Pricing: Finding the Right Fit

Nissan offers the 2023 Rogue in several trims, making it easier to find one that fits your needs and budget.

S Trim (Base Model)

• Starting price: $28,000 (estimate)
• Standard features: Cloth seats, 17-inch wheels, 8-inch touchscreen, Safety Shield 360.

SV Trim

• Starting price: $30,000 (estimate)
• Standard features: 18-inch wheels, dual-zone climate control, upgraded infotainment, heated seats.

SL Trim

• Starting price: $34,000 (estimate)
• Standard features: Leather seats, 19-inch wheels, panoramic sunroof, surround-view camera.

Platinum Trim

• Starting price: $38,000 (estimate)
• Standard features: 20-inch wheels, quilted leather seats, 12.3-inch digital dashboard, wireless charging.

Potential Drawbacks

• The base model is a little sparse when it comes to luxury features. If you want things like heated seats or a larger screen, you’ll need to fork out for the higher trims.
• The Platinum trim gets quite pricey, especially when you compare it to some of its competitors like the Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V.

Conclusion: Is the 2023 Nissan Rogue Manual Worth It?

In the crowded compact SUV market, the 2023 Nissan Rogue manages to stand out, especially for those who prefer a manual transmission. With its spacious interior, advanced technology, and impressive fuel economy, it ticks many of the boxes that modern drivers are looking for.

That said, there are some trade-offs. The manual version might not be for everyone. If you’re frequently driving in stop-and-go traffic, the automatic CVT might be a better option for you. Additionally, while the Rogue offers solid performance, it’s not exactly thrilling to drive.

At the end of the day, Alex Collantes summed it up perfectly: "The Rogue is one of those cars that does a little bit of everything. It’s not the flashiest, and it’s not the fastest. But it’s reliable, practical, and won’t let you down on a family road trip. And sometimes that’s all you really need in an SUV."

Final Thoughts: The 2023 Nissan Rogue is a great choice for anyone looking for a practical and reliable compact SUV. If you can overlook the slightly underwhelming performance and don’t mind a manual transmission, then this could be the perfect car for you.

Pros:

• Spacious and comfortable interior.
• Advanced safety features.
• Fuel-efficient engine.

Cons:

• Manual transmission isn’t for everyone.
• Base model lacks some luxury features.
• Not the most exciting SUV to drive.