- Exterior Design: Sharper, More Powerful Look
- Interior: Advanced Technology and Contemporary Elegance
- Powertrains: Advanced Hybrid and Electric Technologies
- Competition and Expectations
Japanese automaker Nissan is preparing to launch the next generation of its popular SUV, the 2027 Rogue (known globally as the X-Trail), with a comprehensive overhaul of both exterior and interior design, as well as the introduction of new hybrid and electric powertrain options. This move comes at a time when Nissan faces significant financial challenges, making this model one of its most important vehicles for maintaining its market share, especially in the United States and Europe.
Exterior Design: Sharper, More Powerful Look
Nissan revealed early glimpses of the new Rogue’s design during a strategic presentation, showing a bolder and sharper appearance with touches that reflect a strong, sporty character. The glossy black front grille is flanked by five hexagonal light elements on each side, while the main LED headlights are positioned higher for greater prominence.
The front fenders feature sculpted lines that flow smoothly toward the doors, a design repeated at the rear to enhance the vehicle’s muscular look. At the back, the D-pillar design closely resembles that of the iconic Patrol, with wraparound LED taillights echoing the front design lines to create a visually balanced appearance.
Interior: Advanced Technology and Contemporary Elegance
Inside, the new Rogue draws inspiration from Nissan’s electric vehicles like the Ariya and the latest Murano models. The dashboard is clean and horizontal, featuring two wide screens—one for the instrument cluster and another for the infotainment system. Physical buttons are minimized, and high-quality materials are used throughout the cabin to enhance the sense of luxury.
The vehicle will feature the improved ProPILOT driver assistance system, offering advanced semi-autonomous driving capabilities. Reports suggest the cabin may be slightly larger, maintaining a five-seat configuration for the U.S. version, while the global X-Trail will continue to offer a third-row seating option.
Powertrains: Advanced Hybrid and Electric Technologies
One of the most significant updates in the 2027 Rogue is the expansion of powertrain options to include advanced hybrid technologies. The traditional gasoline engine will remain available, but for the first time in the U.S., Nissan will introduce its third-generation e-Power hybrid system. This system uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine as a generator to charge the battery, while an electric motor drives the wheels.
At low speeds, the system operates as a fully electric drivetrain with an all-wheel-drive setup known as e-4ORCE in Japan, delivering a driving experience similar to that of a pure EV. When more power is needed, the gasoline engine generates electricity only, never directly powering the wheels.
Additionally, Nissan will add a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version after the launch of the base model, likely based on the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV platform, reflecting the collaboration between the two companies in electric technologies.
Competition and Expectations
The Nissan Rogue faces fierce competition from strong rivals such as the all-new Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Subaru Forester, Honda CR-V, Volkswagen Tiguan, Mitsubishi Outlander, Ford Bronco Sport, Jeep Cherokee, and the next-generation Mazda CX-5.
The official reveal of the new Rogue is expected in mid-2026, with production for the U.S. market beginning around the same time. The key question remains: Can Nissan reclaim its position in the compact SUV segment through modern design and new hybrid powertrains?
The 2027 Nissan Rogue offers a blend of bold design, advanced technology, and hybrid powertrains that reflect the company’s move toward an electrified future. Given Nissan’s current economic challenges, this model represents a critical opportunity to regain customer trust and strengthen its standing in a highly competitive market.
