Across the 2019 Nissan Rogue lineup is a 2.5L four-cylinder and a 2.0L inline-four with hybrid technology. Both engine options offer reliable power and 30-plus mpg fuel economy numbers.
Key Points
- The 2019 Nissan Rogue‘s entry-level, naturally aspirated 2.5L four-cylinder puts out a meager 170 horsepower and reaches 0-60 in 8.9 seconds.
- Rogue Hybrid’s 2.0L powertrain delivers the best fuel economy across the models, averaging 34 mpg in FWD configuration. However, a FWD 2.5L is close behind, averaging 29.
- Both engine options use lightweight aluminum construction, dual overhead camshaft layouts, variable valve timing, and timing chains.
- Hybrids models make the highest power output at 176 horsepower and take just over a second longer to reach 60 mph than the 2.5L.
2019 Rogue’s 2.5L Four-cylinder Engine Features Lightweight Aluminum Design for Maximum Longevity and Fuel Efficiency
The 2.5L inline-four found in non-hybrid 2019 Rogue models is known internally as the QR25DE. It is a standard Nissan engine that uses solid construction combined with modern technologies to create excellent efficiency, solid performance, and overall reliability.
Both the engine block and cylinder head are constructed from aluminum to create an overall lightweight assembly. Its standard DOHC construction with CVVT on the intake camshaft optimizes the timing of fuel entering the combustion chamber based on engine rpm. This saves fuel when the engine is not under heavy load, and opens the valves more to intake more fuel at higher rpm conditions. To further optimize fuel use, it uses multi-point electronic fuel injection.
Also, the 2.5L four-cylinder engine’s use of a steel timing chain instead of a timing belt increases the engine’s longevity.
Rogue’s QR25DE Engine Makes Plenty of Power While Getting up to 33 mpg Highway
With a curb weight of up to nearly 3,800 pounds, it’s easy to see how one might assume that a 2.5L engine may be a bit underpowered for this family-friendly SUV. However, that simply isn’t the case.
With a modest 170 hp and 175 lb.-ft. of torque, the Rogue sprints from zero to 60 mph in about 8.9 seconds, which is fast enough to keep up with traffic and safely get up to highway speeds for the onramps.
However, its four-cylinder engine isn’t just powerful, it’s remarkably efficient. According to the EPA, the 2019 Nissan Rogue outfitted with the 2.5L four-cylinder is good for up to 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway.
2019 Rogue Hybrids Use 2.0L Engine Combined with Electric Motor to Generate More Power and Better Fuel Economy
Under the hood of the non-hybrid 2019 Nissan Rogue is a 2.0L inline-four-cylinder engine known as the MR20DD. It also uses all-aluminum construction with standard DOHC technology. However, the MR20DD has a few more modern improvements over the QR25DE.
First, the MR20DD has CVVT on both the intake and exhaust camshafts, providing even more precise control. Also, the MR engine uses direct injection, so the fuel is sprayed directly into the combustion chamber instead of into the intake manifold like on the 2.5L models. Finally, the MR uses an electronic throttle body to further allow optimum fuel efficiency.
Like the QR engine, the MR uses a timing chain instead of a belt. So, it also carries Nissan’s notoriety for manufacturing stout and reliable engines.
Rogue Hybrid is Slower to 60 than Gas Powertain, but Provides 176 Horsepower to Get the Job Done as a Daily Driver
The 2.0L engine makes 141 hp and 145 lb.-ft. of torque. However, when combined with the electric motor hybrid system, the total output of a 2019 Nissan Rogue Hybrid is 176 hp.
It has a zero to 60 time of around 10 seconds, which is slower than the non-hybrid variant, but still very quick for everyday commuting.
The real highlight of this engine option comes in the form of city driving. EPA estimates give the 2019 Rogue Hybrid numbers up to 33 mpg city and 35 mpg highway. Seeing city gas mileage exceed 30 mpg on a family-ready SUV is rare, so shoppers with stop-and-go heavy commutes should seriously consider the hybrid option.
Both 2019 Nissan Rogue Engine Options Offer Reliability, Reasonable Power, and Fuel Economy that will Save Owners Money
Overall, both engine options for the 2019 Nissan Rogue are solid choices. With their lightweight aluminum construction, timing chains, and years of engineering and research backing their technological advancements, it’s safe to assume you’re buying a trustworthy car when you depend on a Nissan four-cylinder engine.
Ultimately, it all boils down to whether shoppers want to spring into the hybrid world or not. Even if they don’t, the Rogue’s 2.5L non-hybrid option gets the job done with ease.
Photos: Nissan
