2008 Nissan Rouge

I would say no, as it does look a little bit like the Rondo, which is a direct competitor of the Mazda5 (very similar functionality, but the Ugly version [capital U] :D).

According to the article it will compete head-to-head with the RAV4 and CR-V. Yeah, Mazda5 is not an SUV (thank you Mazda) but, given how the NA market classifies cars, it is usually compared at least with the RAV4 (due to the 3rd row seat). Also, the Rogue is based on the Nissan Sentra platform, Sounds familiar to Mazda3-Mazda5 concept?

Oh well, Nissan has come long way withe regards to design, so it is good to see the market heating up more with the Rogue. Down side is that it is an SUV IMO, there are so many already. CVT and AWD welcome though (I don't drive AT, but who knows for how long MT will be able to survive for Mazda5 type cars)

Let's see how JD Power positions the Rogue, that will tell a lot on how screwed up car segments classifications are set in this market (yawn)

The Rogue Article:
http://www.newcartestdrive.com/sneakpreview.cfm?ReviewID=133

JD Power segment classification, Mazda5 head-to-head with the Odyssey, really?
http://www.jdpower.com/autos/segment-performance&design-ratings/van

I keep going back and forth between the loaded '08 Mazda5 GT and the loaded '08 Nissan Rogue SL AWD ... @ a $2K difference - and they both have different tech & kewl factors going on! ... http://forums.nicoclub.com/zeroforum?id=215 (hand)
 
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