The 2018 Nissan Rogue S AWD achieves a combined fuel economy of 28 MPG. This places it in the practical, family-focused crossover segment. Buyers choose the Rogue for its versatile cargo space, comfortable ride, and available all-wheel drive, and fuel efficiency that won’t break the bank is a welcome bonus.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down the Rogue’s fuel efficiency further, estimating 26 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. This split shows the Rogue’s suitability for both suburban errands and longer road trips. The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) plays an important role in achieving these numbers, constantly adjusting the gear ratio to keep the 2.5L 4-cylinder engine operating at its most efficient point. Some drivers find CVTs to be less engaging than traditional automatics, but they are undeniably effective at maximizing fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Nissan Rogue S AWD at $1,875. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a fuel price based on the national average. Remember this is an estimate, and your actual fuel expenses will fluctuate depending on where, and how, you drive, and the current cost of gasoline. It’s a useful benchmark, however, for comparing the Rogue’s running costs to those of other vehicles in its class. This kind of clear, specific information on fuel costs is important for families looking to budget responsibly.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized testing procedure, real-world driving can change numbers. Factors such as aggressive acceleration, frequent stop-and-go traffic, and even weather conditions can impact fuel economy. If your commute involves heavy city driving or you frequently carry passengers and cargo, then expect to see numbers slightly below the EPA estimates. Drivers on the open road with cruise control engaged may see numbers matching or even exceeding the 33 MPG highway estimate.

How it compares

The 2018 Nissan Rogue S AWD holds its own in terms of fuel efficiency when compared to its competitors. The Honda CR-V LX AWD, for example, offers a similar 27 MPG combined. The Toyota RAV4 LE AWD, another popular choice, mirrors the Rogue’s 28 MPG combined. The Subaru Forester 2.5i, known for its standard all-wheel drive, comes in around 28 MPG combined as well. These comparisons highlight that the Rogue’s fuel economy is competitive within its segment, but also show some competitors potentially achieving slightly better numbers. Splitting hairs over a single MPG may not be the deciding factor for buyers prioritizing a specific set of features alongside all-wheel drive capability within a defined budget.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance ensures your Rogue’s engine is operating at peak efficiency. Simple tasks like keeping tires properly inflated and replacing air filters as recommended in the owner’s manual can improve fuel economy by a noticeable margin. Don’t neglect scheduled maintenance like oil changes, either. A well-maintained engine consumes less fuel.

Gentle acceleration and braking are key to maximizing fuel economy in any vehicle, but especially in one equipped with a CVT. Avoid sudden bursts of speed and anticipate traffic conditions to minimize the need for hard braking. The CVT will work to keep the engine in its most efficient range, but it needs smooth, consistent inputs from the driver.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Hauling around extra cargo can significantly impact fuel economy, particularly during city driving. Take a moment to declutter the trunk and remove items you don’t need on a daily basis. Every little bit counts.

Use cruise control on the highway whenever possible. Maintaining a consistent speed reduces unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, leading to improved fuel economy. Just remember to disengage cruise control in heavy traffic and be attentive to changing road conditions.

Before setting off on a trip, check all Nissan fuel economy data to compare models and find potential fuel saving options. If you are comparing Nissan models in the future, take a peek at ROGUE MPG across all years.