The Rogue is powered by a 170 horsepower four-cylinder 2.5 liter engine with a continuously variable transmission. It comes in either front wheel drive, rated at 22 miles per gallon city and 27 miles per gallon highway, or all wheel drive, which lowers the fuel economy number by one mile per gallon across the board. The comparable Mercury Mariner has a fuel efficiency rating of 20 mpg city and 26 mppg highway.

The Rogue gets a five passenger rating, and can hold four adults in reasonable comfort; however, the biggest problem, as with any compact, is with getting in and out. Once you are inside, the Rogue has some nice features. These include available six way adjustable driver and four way adjustable passenger front seats, tilt wheel, power locks and windows, remote keyless entry, security alarm and immobilizer key system.

The Rogue may be compact, but it is all about using the space it does have. There are almost thirty cubic feet of storage space behind the rear seat. Of course, it has a 40/60 split rear seat and folding rear and passenger seats, and with the back seats down you more than double the available storage.

It doesn’t stop there. There is a storage area under the cargo space. There are pockets on the front doors and in the back of the front seat. The cargo area has four tie down hooks and you can get a model with two retractable luggage side hooks. There is even a cargo light to help get it all in and out in the dark. Outside you can get a silver luggage rack, halogen headlights, variable intermittent rear wiper and body color bumpers and mirror.

Nissan always seems to pay close attention to safety, and the Rogue is no exception. Airbags everywhere (dual stage for front seats) are just a start. There are anti-lock brakes with brake assist and electronic brake force distribution, traction control and a vehicle dynamic system outside. Inside, in addition to airbags, there are Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) and child safety rear door locks. In between there are crumple zones and an energy absorbing steering column.

The Rogue comes in two trim levels: the S and the SL. Base price on the S is $20,220. The SL base runs $21,810. This is for front wheel drive. Add about twelve hundred dollars to each model for all wheel drive. Each comes with a lot of standard items, but you can add about $1,500 in upgrades to the S and several thousand to the SL.

All in all, the 2009 Nissan Rogue is a great value for a small family. Inexpensive to buy and drive and with better room than most small cars, it might be just what you’re looking for.

Both are powered by a 317 horsepower, 5.6-liter, V8 engine, and come with a five-speed automatic transmission. Both front-wheel and four-wheel drive are available.

Estimated fuel efficiency on both the SE and LE is 13 mpg city, 19 highway on the 4×2 and 13/18 for the 4×4. Both have a 28 gallon fuel tank. Interior passenger volume is 188.4 cubic feet with cargo capacity at 20 cubic feet when all seats are up and 97.1 when they are down. Maximum ground clearance for the Armada is 9.86 inches to 10.69 inches. The driver’s seat is adjustable eight ways, the fold-down front passenger seat six. The second row is a 40/20/40 on the SE and fold-flat captain’s chairs on the LE. The third row is a 60/40 split flat-folding bench seat.

The standard audio system on the SE is an eight-speaker AM/FM in-dash 6-CD unit with MP3/WMA capability. The LE has a ten-speaker Bose audio system. Both models of the 2007 Nissan Armada are pre-wired for satellite radio and a back-seat DVD entertainment system is an option.

It is available in 2 trims that each come in either rear wheel drive or 4 wheel drive configurations. Both the SE and LE trims come with 2nd and 3rd row bench seats and will comfortably seat 8 passengers, though if you can live with room for 7, a no cost upgrade to 2nd row captains chairs is available. With fuel prices at a premium and true sport utility increasing the bottom line with its associated costs, only those who can truly appreciate and make use of the Armada’s impressive towing, hauling and 8 passenger transportation capabilities should be considering this hard working SUV.

The roomy and capable Armada SE comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, an auto dimming rear view mirror, a power adjustable driver seat, power adjustable pedals, power windows, mirrors and door locks; front and rear controlled dual zone climate control, and an 8-speaker audio system with CD changer and MP3 capability. The upscale LE replaces the 18 inch rims with 20 inch alloy wheels, a power lift gate, keyless start, power adjustable and heated front seats with leather upholstery, and a premium 10 speaker Bose audio system with satellite radio. Most of the LE’s features are available as options for the SE. Additional options include a rear seat DVD entertainment system, a sun roof, a power fold feature for the 3rd row seat, Bluetooth connectivity, auto dimming side view mirrors and a navigation system that includes the ability to store digital music on its 9 gig internal hard drive.

Robust power is provided to the entire Armada lineup via its 317 horsepower, 5.6-liter V8 engine that is available with or without a flex fuel option. Both 2WD and 4WD versions come with a 5 speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is disappointing, even for this gas gobbling class, with EPA estimates of 13 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway. The strength of the powertrain is amongst the best in its class though, as when properly equipped the Armada can tow up to 9100 pounds.

Undeniably, the 2008 Nissan Armada is very capable and roomy under a variety of circumstances and it is priced below similarly equipped models in its class. However, with an increasing amount of smaller, more fuel efficient cross overs and smaller SUV’s satisfying the majority of an American family’s daily driving requirements, unless you need its super sized cabin and heavy duty towing features purchasing a 2008 Nissan Armada would not be an economically wise decision.

SUVs; however, the latest 2009 Nissan Armada might prove that they’ve corrected any problems and are not giving up the fight. This full-size SUV features a 5.6L V8 engine that generates 317 horsepower. The eight-passenger model is equipped with solid safety features, a wealth of off-roading capabilities, and premium interior additions. While the exterior is basically unchanged from the prior year’s model, the modern chiseled build is still as bold and muscular as ever.

Though the 2009 Armada shines in some respects, the fuel economy is subpar at 12 city MPG and 18 highway MPG. The EPA ranks the Armada as one of the least fuel efficient SUVs and estimates that it emits more greenhouse gases than many others on the market, including the Cadillac Escalade. However, its 9,100-lb towing capacity (with premium towing package) makes it one of the most capable full-size SUVs available. The tow package includes a receiver hitch, 7-pin wiring harness (compared to most SUV tow packages that only include a 4 or 5-pin harness) and automatic leveling rear suspension. This rear suspension senses when a load is being towed or hauled and will automatically adjust the struts and shocks to better balance the load.

Inside, the 2009 Nissan has been given a few additions like Bluetooth phone capability, heated front seats, and side mirrors that can be electronically folded down or dimmed when another vehicle’s headlights produce a glare. Also available is a premium sound system powered by Bose with a 6-disc in-dash CD changer, twelve quality sound speakers and XM Satellite Radio. If buyers upgrade to the Driver’s Package, not only will they get the Bose stereo system, they’ll also receive a power liftgate, a rearview monitor for viewing behind the vehicle while in reverse and an automatic dimming rearview mirror. The Premium Package allows buyers to advance to leather seating, a power driver’s seat, and a keyless ignition system.

For a base price of $36,130, buyers will get a basic SUV with solid power but will have to add on several upgrade packages to achieve the level of “luxury SUV.” The price might rule out single buyers or families at a lower price point, but those that are looking to both seat many passengers and tow heavy loads will find a solution with the 2009 Nissan Armada.

With only moderate interest in the model, there have recently been questions regarding whether it will continue in the coming model years. However, Nissan has stated that they have no intention to discontinue the Armada. Using the same platform as the Nissan Pathfinder truck, the Armada is manufactured in Canton, Mississippi. This four-door SUV features only one engine choice and has become a generally overlooked model.

With a 5.6L V8 engine that generates up to 317 horsepower, the Armada has generous power. However, with only 12 city MPG and 18 highway MPG, the model has been criticized by both the EPA and other environmentally friendly consumer groups. Even with the current demand for increased fuel efficiency and hybrid technology, Nissan has not created a version that has improved fuel economy. Critics claim that this will ultimately be the downfall of the Armada, and Nissan has not released any information stating that the fuel efficiency will be enhanced in the near future.

With only a five-speed automatic transmission available, buyers have been disappointed with the lack of options in the model. However, Nissan has implemented the choice of either rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. The four-wheel drive version is marketed as having the towing capacity of a full-size truck. Nevertheless, critics still claim that even with the four-wheel drive option, buyers do not have the opportunity to customize the model to fit their needs as well as other SUVs on the American market.

The Armada’s reputation was further diminished when Consumer Reports gave it a scathing review. The popular magazine claimed that the Armada was a terribly unreliable SUV because brake system problems were rampant. However, Nissan denies that the Armada’s brake issues have been any more prevalent than other models on the market. Not only that, Nissan stated that all of the brake troubles have been repaired for the 2008 model year.

Some Nissan Armadas have been tested with alternative fuel capabilities. However, the maker has not implemented a widespread release of the E85 capable Armada. Reviewers say that this could be the SUV’s saving grace, but Nissan does not seem to be in any hurry to complete the transition. Overall, the Nissan Armada is due for an update, but no press releases have come out indicating when it will take place or what the makeover will entail.

Under the hood there’s a 2.5-liter engine (four cylinders) producing 158 horsepower. That unit is connected to two electric motors boosting total horsepower output to 198, edging out the Toyota Camry hybrid by 11 hp. (The vehicle is also outfitted with continuously variable valve timing control.) Working together the engine and motors should give drivers 41 mpg in town and 36 on the road. According to the Nissan site, owners can expect a per tank range of 700 miles in the city.

Naturally the 2007 Nissan Altima Hybrid’s major appeal lies in its green credentials for low emissions and its stellar gas performance, music to the ears of drivers weary of increasingly high fuel prices. Don’t worry though. You won’t be making any comfort compromises with this sedan. You can pick and choose from the standard range of Altima amenities. Expect the price tag to start at $24,990 and to go up from there depending on your choices. The price is roughly the same as a standard Altima 3.5 SE ($24,000) and approximately $5,000 above the base model ($19,800.)

Sedan body style only and only sold in a few Northeastern States and California. The industry respected engineering and design technology that is the foundation of the successful Altima line is combined with Toyota’s patented Hybrid Synergy Drive technology to create the environmentally friendly and fuel efficient Altima Hybrid. Power is provided by a modified version of the Altima’s 2.5 liter 4 cylinder engine paired with an exceptional continuously variable transmission, which works in conjunction with a battery powered electric motor to produce an impressive 198 horsepower. It can run on one or both of its power sources to accommodate various driving conditions to optimize power and fuel economy. After just completing its first complete model year, there have been no significant changes to this exciting, inviting, ozone preserving midsize sedan for the 2008 model year.

The 5 passenger Altima Hybrid features high quality materials, and a refined fit and finish. Standard equipment includes 16 inch wheels, keyless ignition and entry, dual zone automatic climate control, a tilt/telescoping steering column, a power adjustable driver seat, velour upholstery and a 6 speaker audio system with a CD player and auxiliary jack. There are several options packages available, including the Convenience Package which will add automatic headlights, a rear spoiler, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls and an auto up/down passenger window. The best gas mileage is achieved in the city, as the Altima Hybrid gets 35 mpg in the city - quite an increase over its gasoline engine model mates-but only 33 mpg on the highway, which is not much greater than the mileage achieved with the gasoline engine models.

The Altima Hybrid has a sporting style, but is not really a high performance vehicle. Yet, it can hold its own very well in the acceleration and handling departments. The 2008 Nissan Altima Hybrid’s seamlessly integrated hybrid system presents a stylish and viable alternative to those who seek midsize car practicality and upscale materials and wish to support hybrid technology almost anonymously by driving a sedan that really looks and feels like a ‘regular’ sedan.

This puts it in the same class with such cars as the Toyota Prius and Camry Hybrid, Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid, Saturn Aura Hybrid and Honda Civic Hybrid, as well as midsize cars generally.

First offered in the 2007 model year, it has not yet changed it basic body style. New for this year, however, are standard automatic door locks and four new colors.

The Altima uses the Prius hybrid system, having bought from Toyota the rights to sell up to 20,000 of them a year. However, the Altima is not a Prius remake and will feel quite different because it uses the standard Altima engine and not the Prius gasoline engine.

That engine, by the way, is a 2.5 liter, 158 horsepower gasoline plant matched with a continuously variable transmission. The Altima is a combined hybrid, which means it can be powered by either the gasoline engine or the electric motor or both, depending on its needs. The electric motor acts as a generator for the gasoline engine and the gasoline engine works as a charger for the electric motor.

It does this to the tune of 35 miles per gallon of gasoline in the city and 33 miles per gallon on the highway. If you’re surprised to see better mileage in the city than on the highway, don’t be. That’s a common, though not universal, effect of the hybrid engine. The reason is that in the city the electric motor often runs the car alone, using no gas at all.

The only trim line for the Altima Hybrid is the HEV. Compared to other, similar hybrids, the Altima gets better gas mileage and has more legroom than most. It is below average on rear headroom and cargo space. As with most hybrids when compared to similar sized standard gasoline vehicles, the Altima suffers from low pulling power.

The NHTSA gives the Altima Hybrid five stars everywhere except rollover, where it garners four. It has all the basic safety features such as child safety locks, inside trunk release and antilock brakes with electronic braking assistance, traction control and a vehicle stability control system, as well as airbags all around. It also has an optional electronic parking aid.

If the strength of hybrids is fuel economy, the weakness is usually initial cost. The 2009 Nissan Altima Hybrid is no exception with a base price of $26,650, as compared to the base price of $19,900 for a standard gasoline Altima or even the base price of $22,000 for the Prius. Still, they appear to be the coming thing, and if that’s the case, the price will eventually level out as the technology becomes more common.

Hybrid edition didn’t make it to market until the 2007 model year. Nevertheless, even in such a short period of time, the Nissan Altima Hybrid has gained immense popularity. Also, when the EPA awarded the Altima Hybrid with the number three ranking in its Top Ten Fuel Efficient Vehicles of 2008, the model’s sales skyrocketed.

Nissan required a partnership with Toyota to create its Altima Hybrid in 2007. Though Nissan had developed the Altima Hybrid’s technology without the assistance of any other established hybrid manufacturer, Nissan quickly realized that some of the Hybrid’s components were eerily similar to those in Toyota’s hybrid models. So, a deal was made and Nissan was able to release their hybrid to the public.

Nissan plans to continually manufacture 40,000 units of the model per year unless a large spike in sales requires them to produce more. However, the first model year of the Altima Hybrid only made the vehicle available to buyers in Vermont, Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Maine, Connecticut, and California. With the model’s test run in those states proving to be lucrative, Nissan made the Altima Hybrid available in all fifty states for the 2008 model year. However, production is still at a muted rate until more buyers become interested or require a hybrid model.

The Altima Hybrid is equipped with a 2.5L QR25DE two-mode engine. This engine has both electric and gasoline power, so when the model is at lower speeds it can run primarily on electricity. But, when higher speeds are reached, the engine will switch over to either sole gas power or a combination of electric and gasoline, whichever the vehicle demands to maintain top performance. With 35 city MPG and 33 highway MPG, the Nissan Altima Hybrid is hard to beat.

Environmental friendliness is one of the Nissan Altima Hybrid’s best features, and the critical acclaim that it has received demonstrates just how “green” it really is. Kelley Blue Book named the Altima Hybrid as one of its Top Ten Green Cars of 2008, and MotorTrend magazine ranked the Altima at number one amongst mid-size hybrid models. With the NHTSA’s highest frontal and side crash test ratings, the Nissan Altima Hybrid is both safe and fuel-efficient. Nevertheless, some critics are claiming that the Altima Hybrid might need a makeover in the upcoming model years to compete with the influx of other innovative hybrids.

Nissan Altima Coupe as the brand new and distinctive partner of the popular Altima Sedan. In addition to the Coupe’s smaller proportions, it distinguishes itself from the Sedan with its unique body panels, exterior trim, sport tuned suspension and aggressively bolstered sport style seats. The front wheel drive Coupe is available in 2 styles-the perky 4-cylinder 2.5 S and the even livelier 3.5 SE, which is equipped with a 6 cylinder engine. Although the appearance and performance of the Coupe differ from the Sedan in many ways, they do share the same set of engine and transmission choices.

The model numbers are indicative of the engine size, with the 2.5 S being equipped with a 2.5 liter 4 cylinder engine that delivers 175 horsepower; while a 270 horsepower 3.5 liter V6 powers the 3.5 SE. A choice of either a 6 speed manual transmission or arguably one of the industry’s best continuously variable transmissions is available for both models. A 2.5 S equipped with the manual transmission has impressive acceleration and goes from 0 to 60 in just over 6 seconds.

Both models have an appealing and well equipped cabin. The base model 2.5 S has an abundance of features that are highlighted by 16-inch steel wheels, chrome tipped dual exhaust, remote keyless entry and start, air conditioning, full power accessories, trip computer and a 9 speaker Bose audio system. The 3.5 SE switches out the wheels for a set of 17-inch aluminum rims, and keeps adding to the standard features list with fog lights, sport tuned suspension system, power side view mirrors with turn signals, and a power operated sliding/tilt moon roof. Many additional and popular features are can be added to both models by purchasing one or more of the specially designed options packages, though they tend to be a bit pricey.

Aside from the expensive and available as package only options, the 2008 Nissan Altima Coupe is an attractive and versatile option in the crowded midsize segment, delivering a smooth ride and room for 5 passengers with a rear seat that accommodates three in a pinch, but would be more suitable for use on short trips by 2 adults. The Altima Coupe differentiates itself within the midsize segment by successfully bringing forth a gripping blend of chic style, practicality and sport that stands out amongst the competition.

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