Base price: $19,250 ($20,670 as tested).

Fuel economy: 22 MPG city; 27 MPG highway (EPA).

Standard equipment: 2.5-liter, 170-horsepower I4 engine, CVT transmission, front wheel drive, 16-inch wheels, air conditioning, cruise control, power windows and door locks.

Safety equipment: Electronic stability control, dual-stage front airbags, front-row side airbags, roof-mounted side air curtains, active head restraints, front seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters, tire pressure monitoring system.

Major options: All wheel drive, XM Satellite radio with BOSE premium audio, leather seats, 17-inch aluminum wheels, power seats, power moonroof, xenon headlights.

Pros: Smooth, quiet motor. Frugal CVT transmission. A roomy, nicely appointed cabin.

Cons: A cheap-looking grille. Numb steering. Manual shift paddles that seem silly in this type of vehicle.

Verdict: The Nissan Rogue is a solid contender in the race to win the hearts of born-to-be-mild suburbanites who need an affordable, efficient family wagon.