Post by
kerrton »
https://forums.nicoclub.com/kerrton-u88348.html
Fri May 20, 2011 12:49 pm
I think the re-designed Rogue will be quite different from the current model, and I'm hoping the Powertrain is one area with some significant improvements.
In particular, I think Nissan needs a "next gen" engine with GDI (gasoline direct injection), and/or smaller displacement turbo, possibly both. Much of the competition already has these new engine technologies in current models which provide high horsepower AND much better fuel efficiency. Kia/Hyundai for example have recently released their 2.4L Theta GDI engine which makes around 200 hp and significantly more efficient than the regular 2.4 (depending on which vehicle it is in, small car, mid-size sportage and larger Sorento CUV). Ford has the EcoBoost GDI and turbo combination in several new engines and I believe GM is on the verge of releasing a GDI "EcoTec" engine. Somewhat surprisingly Toyota and Honda have not taken this route yet, probably due to heavy reliance on gasoline electric hybrids, Toyota in particular.
That covers most of the major players except for Nissan, I'm not sure what their stategy is and there doesn't seem to be too much information to go on. They seem to be involved in several areas including development of their own hybrid electric system, development of a next gen CVT transmission, claims of developting small displacement turbos but I'm unsure about the development of GDI technology into existing engines.
Whatever they're planning, I'm expecting something big, and I'm guessing there will be a few more powertrain choices than the current lone 2.5QR engine. There definately will never be a V6 and that is great, I'd predict a 1.6 or 1.8 L turbo GDI, and perhaps a screamining performance 2.5 GDI that will have to make around 200 hp and get a few mpg's better than the current GDI. The CVT has been in constant evolution and I'm sure that will continue with a new and improved model, further pushing fuel efficiency. Personally I'd hope for a manual transmission offering as Kia/Hyundai currently has on all of their models including the brand new redesigned Sorento, Sportage, Tucson and Santa Fe (new design coming next year).
Stiff competition should stimulate some amazing things from the next generation of the Rogue, and we're getting closer to knowing details perhaps as soon as next year!