Photos: 2008 Nissan Rogue

Nissan's new crossover is an entry-level vehicle, with the Murano being the next step up in this line. It offers a relatively economical engine plus plenty of interior space.

Nissan keeps a clean design by having the hatchwork grille blend into the front fascia of the car.

The 2.5-liter four cylinder engine puts out 170 horsepower, not much for a car of this size.

The Rogue is a thoroughly modern crossover, with an SUV-like front end leading to a more sculpted rear.

The Rogue has a little more clearance than a standard car. We drove the front-wheel-drive version. An all-wheel-drive version is available.

The Rogue has more than ample cargo area, with enough room for five passengers' luggage.

Nissan doesn't offer much in the way of cabin electronics with the Rogue, surprising because the company has been putting superior electronics in its other models. Strangely, cell phone integration is available on the all-wheel-drive version but not on the front-wheel-drive version.

With the $1,900 Premium package, you get niceties such as audio controls on the steering wheel.

The Rogue uses a continuously variable transmission which has a manual selection mode for shifting through six virtual gears.

Between the two big speedo and tach gauges sits a small display serving as a fuel and temp gauge, as well as showing trip information.

XM satellite radio comes with the Premium package, as does a seven-speaker Bose audio system.

The Premium package also brings in a six-CD changer that reads MP3 CDs.

As with satellite radio, you can choose to display track information for MP3 CDs, such as artist, album, or song title.

We like the way you can toggle through different display options with satellite radio, such as artist, track, or channel.