Nissan's Key SUV Is Undergoing a Dramatic Redesign That May Ensure Its Future | Carscoops

      The upcoming Rogue, known as the X-Trail in many regions outside North America, features a striking design and electrified powertrains.

       18 hours ago

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

       by Josh Byrnes

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      The next Rogue showcases an edgy design with rugged elements and darkened lighting features.

      The updated CMF-CD platform accommodates new hybrid and plug-in hybrid options.

      Its American launch is anticipated in mid-2026 as Nissan aims to compete with leading rivals such as the latest Toyota RAV4.

      It's safe to say that Nissan has faced significant challenges recently, making this one of the year’s major understatements. The manufacturer has been in the news for numerous negative reasons, including factory shutdowns, job cuts, and escalating financial losses that appear to worsen monthly. However, amid this gloomy outlook, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon: a new-generation Rogue crossover is on the way.

      

      

      The 2027 Rogue, marketed as the X-Trail elsewhere, including Europe, is Nissan’s most essential model and best-seller in the U.S. Its forthcoming successor is set for a comprehensive refresh, featuring updated aesthetics and new electrified powertrain options, although it won't be an entirely new design.

      The big question is whether this will be sufficient to stem the financial losses. Let’s examine the details.

      Edgier Design With a Recognizable Face

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

       Illustrations Josh Byrnes / Carscoops

      

      

      

      In a recent presentation outlining its future strategies, Nissan showcased teaser images of the next Rogue, among other models. While the official unveiling is forthcoming, we’ve pieced together visual hints to gain a clearer understanding of what to expect. The results are likely to stand out, even to those who don’t typically favor crossovers.

      Additionally: Minor Flaw May Result in New Engines for Half a Million Nissan and Infiniti Owners

      At the front, a bold, blacked-out grille frames five hexagon-like daytime running light elements on each side. The main LED units are recessed and placed higher, and the leading edge of the hood is more upright and squared off. The fenders have scalloped contours that flow smoothly into the doors, with a similar aesthetic applied to the rear, enhancing the vehicle's rugged look.

      At the rear, the D-pillar design is reminiscent of the latest Patrol SUV, while the sharp, wraparound LED taillights reflect the design elements from the front for a harmonious appearance.

      

      

      More Intelligent and Refined Interior

      

      

      

      

      

       The upcoming Rogue is expected to incorporate design elements from the Ariya and Murano.

      

      

      

      Inside, the new 2027 Rogue will borrow design elements from the Ariya EV and the latest Murano, adopting a sleek, horizontal dashboard design with dual widescreen displays—one for gauges and one for infotainment. Physical controls will be minimal, and the interior will feature an elevated combination of materials throughout. An upgraded version of Nissan’s ProPILOT driver-assistance system will also be included.

      Some reports indicate that the Rogue’s interior space will expand, but it is likely to be a significant refresh rather than a complete redesign, as it will still rely on the current model’s CMF-CD modular architecture. The two-row, five-seat setup will persist in North America, while the X-Trail version globally is expected to offer an optional third row.

      Hybrid and Plug-In Options

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      The most notable advancement for the next Rogue is under the hood. Nissan is broadening its range with hybrid options. While the existing model’s traditional internal combustion engine will remain, it will be supplemented by Nissan’s groundbreaking e-Power hybrid, making its U.S. debut. This third-generation e-Power system employs a turbocharged 1.5-liter gasoline engine primarily as a generator to recharge a battery, while solely an electric motor powers the wheels.

      At lower speeds, the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive system (known as e-4ORCE in Japan) will operate exclusively on electric power, and under heavier loads, the engine activates only to generate electricity, mimicking the experience of a pure electric vehicle.

      Moreover: Nissan’s New Hybrid System Offers EV-Like Advantages, But at a Cost

      In addition to the e-Power series hybrid, a plug-in hybrid will be introduced after the initial launch. As previously reported, Nissan’s teaser image for this variant bears a striking resemblance to a rebadged Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. Whether this approach is a temporary solution or simply indicates that the Outlander’s electrified mechanics will be utilized remains to be seen.

      Competition and Reveal

      

      

      

      

      

       The new Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4 are among the numerous competitors the Rogue faces.

      

      

      

      The 2027 Rogue