The Nissan Rogue was redesigned for 2021 with much-needed changes, and it now rolls into 2022 with a completely new engine. It is said to be more powerful and fuel efficient than before.

An advanced 1.5 liter VC Turbo three-cylinder is available on all new Rogue SUVs, and replaces the old non-turbo 1.5 liter unit. The increased power from this VC engine makes the most standard torque in its class. Not only is there added turbo power for 2022, but there is also a more responsive Xtronic transmission paired up with it. This updated CVT features wider gear ratios, less friction, and contributes to improved acceleration and efficiency. Overall, the upgraded powertrain delivers 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque. This represents a decent increase over the 2021 model. The 2022 Rogue also makes 33 mpg combined, which rises from last year's 30 mpg.

Three areas of improvement are the VC engine's main focus: acceleration, fuel efficiency, and vehicle emissions. A new high-pressure fuel injection system strengthens the Rogue's acceleration on highway ramps or at green lights. The stainless mirror-bore cylinder wall coating is also said to help improve acceleration. Low-pressure die cast cylinder heads benefit the cooling of this 1.5 liter engine, while textured valve lifters decrease friction and increase fuel efficiency. Finally, an upgraded engine mounting system utilizes a pair of lower torque rods that boosts torque and reduces engines vibrations.

The Rogue's new 1.5 liter VC Turbo will be manufactured in Nissan's powertrain production facility in Decherd, Tennessee. First seen in the 2019 Nissan Altima sedan and Infiniti QX50 crossover, Nissan's high-tech VC Turbo powertrain has been under development for 20 years. The engine continuously adjusts the compression ratio with a new multi-link system, in order to make the most out of the vehicle's power and fuel economy. Two on-demand driving modes come with this new compression ratio tech. The first is called 'dynamic performance,' and the second is 'eco/efficient.'

The 2022 Nissan Rogue receives a price bump across the board, thanks to this completely revised powertrain. The base S FWD trim now starts at $26,700, and pricing tops out at $37,980 with the Platinum AWD. Three packages are available; the $2,660 SV Premium Package, $1,320 SL Premium Package, and $400 10.8" head-up display.

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Images: Nissan