“I love the size- not quite as big as a full-size SUV, but still has the SUV height and rear storage. The drive is very smooth and comfortable. My favorite feature is the 360 camera. I do with that it had automatic rear hatch opening like my Pathfinder, but it wasn't a deal breaker.”
2018 Nissan Rogue Sport: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026

The most important change is the midyear 2018.5 safety upgrade. It made automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning, and rear cross traffic alert standard on every Rogue Sport trim, while the SL also gained standard adaptive cruise control.
About the 2018 Nissan Rogue Sport
1st U.S.-market generation (2017-2022), second model year; notable midyear 2018.5 safety update.
Nissan positioned the Rogue Sport as the smaller, more city-friendly alternative to the larger Rogue: easier to park, a little sportier in feel, but still roomy enough for five people and everyday cargo. The brochure leans on urban driving, upright seating, flexible cargo space, and available driver-assist tech. Its core appeal is simple: SUV usefulness without the size penalty of a larger compact crossover, plus available AWD for buyers who need extra weather confidence.
The 2018 Rogue Sport is a small crossover aimed at city driving, errands, and light family use. The S keeps things simple with a 5-inch screen and rearview camera, the SV adds everyday comforts such as automatic climate control and a power driver’s seat, and the SL brings leather, navigation, heated front seats, and a surround-view camera.
What changed, by category
2018 Nissan Rogue Sport specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, CVT Xtronic | Auto, CVT Xtronic | Auto, CVT Xtronic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 25 mpg | 25 mpg | 25 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 32 mpg | 32 mpg | 32 mpg |
| Horsepower | 141 hp | 141 hp | 141 hp |
| Torque | 147 lb-ft | 147 lb-ft | 147 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1000 lb | 1000 lb | 1000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 61.1 cu-ft | 53.3 cu-ft | 53.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 33.4 in | 33.4 in | 33.4 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | |||
| Automatic Headlights | |||
| Automatic High Beams | |||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| 360 Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| LED Headlights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
| Remote Start | |||
| Tilt Wheel | |||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2018 Nissan Rogue Sport?
The main change was a midyear safety upgrade. Rogue Sport models built to the 2018.5 specification received standard automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning, and rear cross traffic alert on every trim; earlier 2018 models mostly differed through revised option packages.
Are all 2018 Nissan Rogue Sport models equipped with automatic emergency braking?
No. The feature became standard across the lineup with the midyear 2018.5 update, so an early 2018 example may not have it. Check the individual vehicle’s equipment before buying.
Which 2018 Nissan Rogue Sport has adaptive cruise control?
The 2018.5 Rogue Sport SL has adaptive cruise control as standard equipment. On the 2018.5 SV, it is part of the Technology Package rather than standard equipment.
Did the 2018 Nissan Rogue Sport get a new engine?
No. The 2018 Rogue Sport kept its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and continuously variable automatic transmission, with no major powertrain change from 2017.
Is a 2018.5 Nissan Rogue Sport meaningfully different from an early 2018 model?
Yes, mainly in safety equipment. The 2018.5 version standardized automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning, and rear cross traffic alert across all trims, and it gave the SL standard adaptive cruise control.
2018 Nissan Rogue Sport Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 Nissan Rogue Sport.
“I would absolutely recommend a Nissan Rogue Sport or any Nissan vehicle actually. This brand is solid. Quiet, contains amazing features, very comfortable and has get up and go!”
“Love the car, perfect for my needs. Only bad thing, blind spot in back. Otherwise, I drive about 500 to 700 miles at a time and this car is comfy and nice to drive.”