2017.5 Nissan Rogue: Significant Upgrades Make It the Smart Choice
The Nissan Rogue has solidified its position as one of America's favorite compact SUVs, becoming Nissan's best-selling model and ranking as the fifth best-selling vehicle overall in the U.S. market. For the 2017.5 model year (a mid-year refresh), Nissan has introduced several important upgrades that enhance both safety and style while maintaining the Rogue's competitive value proposition.
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Key Changes for the 2017.5 Model Year
Nissan has made strategic updates to the Rogue lineup that significantly improve its standing in the competitive compact SUV segment:
- Standard Forward Emergency Braking: Now included on all trim levels with pedestrian detection capability
- Blind Spot Warning & Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Previously optional features now come standard
- Midnight Edition Package: New appearance package available with unique styling elements
- Price Adjustments: Modest increases across all trim levels
Detailed Safety Feature Upgrades
The most significant improvement in the 2017.5 Rogue is the standardization of advanced safety technologies across all trim levels. This strategic move helps the Rogue compete more effectively with safety-focused rivals like the Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4.
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Forward Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection
This potentially life-saving technology uses radar and camera systems to:
- Detect potential collisions with vehicles ahead
- Identify pedestrians in the vehicle's path
- Provide audible and visual warnings to the driver
- Automatically apply brakes if the driver doesn't respond
In the previous model year, this feature was only available on top SL trims as part of an optional package and completely unavailable on base S models.
Blind Spot Warning System
The enhanced blind spot monitoring system:
- Uses radar sensors to detect vehicles in adjacent lanes
- Provides visual alerts in the side mirrors
- Sounds an audible warning if the turn signal is activated while a vehicle is detected
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Particularly useful in parking situations, this system:
- Warns of approaching vehicles when backing out of parking spaces
- Works in conjunction with the blind spot monitoring sensors
- Provides both visual and audible warnings
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Midnight Edition Package: Stylish New Option
For buyers seeking a more distinctive appearance, Nissan now offers the Midnight Edition Package, which includes:
- Gloss-black exterior accents
- Unique 18-inch black alloy wheels
- Black badging and emblems
- Dark-tinted headlight and taillight accents
- Available on SV and SL trim levels
This package provides the Rogue with a more aggressive, upscale appearance that stands out from the standard models while maintaining all the practical features that make the Rogue popular.
Pricing Changes for 2017.5 Models
The added standard equipment comes with modest price increases across the lineup:
| Trim Level | Price Increase | New Base MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| S FWD | +$595 | $25,315 |
| SV FWD | +$495 | $27,315 |
| SL FWD | +$495 | $31,215 |
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The destination charge has also increased by $15 to $975. When comparing these prices to the added standard safety features, most analysts agree the price increases are justified and actually represent improved value.
2017 vs. 2017.5: Which Should You Choose?
For shoppers considering both model years, the choice is clear:
Reasons to Choose the 2017.5 Model
- Superior Standard Safety: The added safety features alone justify the small price increase
- Better Resale Value: Future buyers will prefer models with more standard safety tech
- Insurance Benefits: Some insurers offer discounts for vehicles with automatic emergency braking
- Style Options: Availability of the new Midnight Edition Package
When a 2017 Model Might Make Sense
- If you find significant dealer discounts on remaining 2017 inventory
- If you're considering a base S model and don't value the safety features
- If you prefer the pre-refresh styling (though changes are minimal)
For the vast majority of buyers, the 2017.5 model represents the better value despite the small price increase. The standard safety features alone would cost significantly more if added as options to the 2017 model.
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How the Rogue Compares to Key Competitors
With these updates, the Nissan Rogue becomes more competitive in several important areas:
Against the Toyota RAV4
- The Rogue now matches the RAV4's standard safety tech
- Offers more cargo space (70 cu ft vs. 73.4 cu ft with seats folded)
- Typically has more aggressive pricing and incentives
Against the Honda CR-V
- The CR-V offers slightly more powerful engine options
- Rogue provides more standard safety features in base trims
- Rogue's available third-row seat (on select models) gives it an advantage for some families
Against the Subaru Forester
- Forester maintains an advantage in off-road capability
- Rogue offers more upscale interior options
- Rogue's hybrid version provides better fuel economy than Forester's non-hybrid models
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Ownership Experience and Long-Term Value
The 2017.5 Rogue improvements enhance both short-term satisfaction and long-term ownership value:
Warranty Coverage
- 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty
- 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty
- 5-year/unlimited-mile corrosion warranty
Predicted Reliability
Based on previous model years and Nissan's track record, the 2017.5 Rogue is expected to:
- Have average to above-average reliability
- Require minimal unscheduled maintenance in first 5 years
- Maintain strong resale value, especially with the added safety features
Cost of Ownership
Industry estimates suggest:
- 5-year maintenance costs approximately $3,800
- 5-year depreciation around 45-50% of MSRP
- Insurance costs slightly below segment average
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Final Recommendations
The 2017.5 Nissan Rogue represents one of the best values in the compact SUV segment following these mid-year updates. The standardization of important safety features addresses one of the few criticisms of previous model years, while the new Midnight Edition Package adds appealing style for image-conscious buyers.
For shoppers currently considering a Rogue:
- Prioritize the 2017.5 models for their enhanced safety equipment
- Consider the SV trim as the best balance of features and value
- Evaluate the Midnight Edition if you prefer a more distinctive appearance
- Compare dealer incentives as Nissan frequently offers competitive financing and lease deals
With these improvements, the Rogue solidifies its position as a top contender in the compact SUV market, offering a compelling combination of practicality, safety, and value that should appeal to a wide range of buyers.
Compare the Rogue to Other SUVs