Nissan’s best-selling car, the Rogue, has undergone a top-down transformation in 2021. But there will be a major hood update in 2022.

The 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine has been eliminated and replaced by the standard 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine.

Nissan has paired it with the new continuously variable automatic transmission. It has a wider transmission ratio distribution-increased by 17% to 8.2; reduced friction, decreased by 32%; and dual fuel pump settings, designed to improve fuel economy and improve gear shift response during aggressive driving.

The engine is much smaller than its predecessor, but can provide 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque, making the 2022 version the most powerful Rogue ever.

The overall fuel economy is estimated to be 33 mpg-3 mpg higher than the 2021 model, and surpasses some of Rogue's main competitors, such as Toyota RAV4 and Ford Escape.

We collected some early comments.

""The wider torque band facilitates the daily driving of the 2022 Nissan Rogue, and is more than enough for errands and commuting. But this is still a small displacement three-cylinder engine, and it will feel overwhelmed when you ask for too much. It may take some time to accelerate, and the engine sounds a bit angry when it gets there. But it is consistent with the market segment, suitable for normal driving, and there will be no buzzing or whining sound when you don't whip it.

"When driving in a civilized manner, gear shifting is also the smoothest. Yes, there is more power to pass through, but again, this is still a small engine compact SUV, so please be patient and wait for the runway to complete overtake.

"Early criticism of the 2.0-liter VC Turbo said that the transmission limited the performance of the engine, but Nissan engineers now think they have solved these problems. The engine still feels that it allows more than the CVT allows, but both feel that they are more than before. Synchronization. Nissan may have tried to pair us the wrong white wine with fish, but at least it no longer pours us a glass of red wine. It is worth noting that the steering and brake settings have not changed from the 2021 model."

— Alisa Priddle, car trends

""Compared with the old 2.5L, VC-Turbo makes Rogue feel more lively underfoot. Although the 2021 Rogue sprinted to 60 mph in 8.2 seconds, the previous power system felt relaxed to the point of drowsiness, especially when passing the ball. Once we are on the track, we will compare subjective opinions with objective results, but we expect the new Rogue to be half a second slower for a time between zero and 60 mph. Regardless of the numbers, there is now a reassuring torque wave that peaks at 2800 rpm and continues to 4000 rpm, thereby enhancing the mid-frequency response. The new Rogue delivers its power at a faster rate, if not always more linear. Slam on the accelerator shows the initial hesitation before a sudden thrust surge; with variable compression and a continuously variable transmission, there are many variables that need to be adjusted before your accelerator input is converted into action. Keeping the throttle close to the floor for a long time will cause a dull roar under the hood, but other than that, the cabin is a quiet and spacious place. "

— Eric Stafford, car and driver

""It is basically a derivative product of the lovely 2.0-liter variable compression four-cylinder engine of Nissan and Infiniti. One cylinder bore is cut off. This generator is equipped with fuel-saving technology. From its infinitely variable displacement oil pump and new High-pressure fuel-its camshaft injection system runs on roller bearings and textured valve lifters, which can hold more lubricant to reduce friction. Yes, this odd-numbered cylinder miracle can also change the compression ratio between 8:1 and 14:1, just like its big brother, running more pressurization and less squeezing when power is needed, and in​ ​Tighten when cruising to improve efficiency.

"When offline, this new three-cylinder engine is as eager as a Labrador puppy. When you step on the accelerator, you almost feel nervous. This charm solves the complaint about the outgoing power system, mainly because it is a bit biased. Soft. "The 2022 Rogue hits violently at a lower speed, although this enthusiasm will be noticeably weakened anywhere above 3,500 rpm. However, its acceleration is comparable to any other SUV in the same class, and around towns, from traffic lights to traffic lights, this Nissan may surpass its competitors. "

— Craig Cole, CNET Roadshow

""In addition to the slight laziness when starting from a standstill, we noticed a good energy when stepping on the accelerator. This is true at different speeds, whether it is a sprint of 20-50 km/h or the necessary leap needed to pass at a speed of 60 or 70 km/h.

"On the highway? Well, because I'm not a sadist, I would rather stay away from Toronto's 401, which should be avoided during peak hours. It will be another day to evaluate its performance in that environment.

"As for the work of the CVT, the simulated gear makes it less and less unpleasant. You can still manage it with the paddles on the steering wheel. As a bonus, the sound is also good.

"So, the first contact was very positive; the new engine seemed very promising."

— Daniel Rufiange, auto123.com

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