The 2018 Nissan Rogue AWD with its 2.5L 4-cylinder engine gets 27 MPG combined, putting it in the middle of the compact SUV category. It’s not the most fuel-efficient, but it’s not a gas guzzler either. It offers a balance that appeals to buyers who want a comfortable, versatile, and affordable vehicle over maximum fuel savings.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 Rogue AWD at 25 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. The city number shows the effect of stop-and-go driving, where the Rogue’s continuously variable transmission (CVT) works to keep the engine efficient. The highway rating is more optimistic but can be reached if you drive at a steady speed. The Rogue’s aerodynamic design and the CVT’s simulated gear changes at higher speeds help achieve this number. However, accelerating quickly or passing frequently will reduce your gas mileage, especially on the highway. This is common with smaller engines and CVTs, and the Rogue is no different.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Nissan Rogue AWD 2.5L at $1,600. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel price. Your actual fuel costs will change based on your driving, the type of gasoline you use, and where you live because fuel prices vary. This $1,600 figure provides a benchmark, but you should adjust it to your own driving situation.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a good starting point, real-world fuel economy often differs. Owners report numbers from the low 20s to the high 30s, depending on driving style and conditions. If you often drive in heavy traffic or accelerate quickly, expect your mileage to be lower. If you accelerate smoothly and drive mostly on the highway, you will likely see numbers close to the EPA’s estimate, or even better. The Rogue’s small fuel tank (around 14.5 gallons) means you’ll fill up more often than with a larger SUV, even if the MPG is reasonable.

How it compares

The Rogue’s 27 MPG combined is similar to other compact SUVs with all-wheel drive. The Honda CR-V AWD, for example, gets 29 MPG combined with its 1.5L turbocharged engine, giving it a slight advantage in fuel economy over the Rogue. The Toyota RAV4 AWD gets about 28 MPG combined. The Jeep Compass 4×4, depending on the engine, can get around 25 MPG combined. The Subaru Forester, with standard all-wheel drive, comes in around 28 MPG combined. These small differences can add up. Someone considering the Rogue may accept slightly lower fuel economy for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and often lower price than some competitors. To see all Nissan fuel economy data, you can compare it to other vehicles in their lineup. And of course, you could investigate ROGUE MPG across all years to understand its history.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One of the easiest ways to improve fuel economy in the 2018 Rogue is to accelerate smoothly and avoid hard braking. The CVT is designed to keep the engine in its best efficiency range, but aggressive driving changes this. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed.

Also, proper tire inflation is important. Check your tire pressure and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Using the correct tire pressure will save you money and extend the life of your tires.

Minimize using accessories that draw power from the engine, like air conditioning and heated seats. While these features make the Rogue more comfortable, they also increase the load on the engine, reducing fuel efficiency. Use them when you need them, especially during short trips.

Consider using the Rogue’s “Eco” mode, if it has one. This mode adjusts the throttle and CVT to prioritize fuel efficiency. It might make the car feel less responsive, but it can save fuel, especially in city driving. See if the change in responsiveness is acceptable for you.

Finally, regular maintenance is essential for fuel economy. Follow the service schedule in your owner’s manual, including regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently and gets better fuel economy.