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Some technology is meant to save money. Others simplify popular vehicles. The CVT did both for many sensible, commute-ready cars and SUVs. However, it took away some of the driver engagement of a shiftable automatic transmission. Still, some vehicles do their best automatic transmission impression with paddle shifters and sport mode, like the 2024 Nissan Rogue. 

The 2024 Nissan Rogue SL AWD uses a sport mode and paddle shifters to do its best shiftable automatic transmission impression despite its CVT

The 2024 Nissan Rogue SL AWD, like the rest of the Rogue SUVs in the model’s 2024 lineup, features a CVT rather than a traditional automatic transmission. As a result, when I shifted via the steering wheel-mounted paddles, I knew I wasn’t actually moving through gears like you would with a ZF eight-speed or 10R80 unit. 

Still, with 201 horsepower on tap and available all-wheel drive (AWD), the Rogue is more than quick enough to knock out on-ramp merges and overtakes without so much as a heavy sigh. But it’s not going to out-muscle segment competition like the turbocharged Mazda CX-50. However, the shiftable CVT and sport mode mean drivers can choose to remain in the power band longer. That means snappier straight-line acceleration. 

A blue 2024 Nissan Rogue SL AWD shows off its side profile.
A 2024 Nissan Rogue SL AWD | Erik Sherman, MotorBiscuit

However, a continuously variable transmission (CVT) isn’t the same as an automatic transmission with a set number of gears. No, a pulley-based CVT works via belt-and-pulley systems to connect the engine and wheels. It’s an elegantly simple system, but it lacks the traditional gears of a planetary automatic transmission, per HowStuffWorks.

Still, that means even a shiftable setup in a CVT-equipped vehicle isn’t selecting gears, but rather simulating ratios that keep the driver in an optimal power band. As such, I didn’t expect an engaging shifting experience from the 2024 Nissan Rogue SL AWD. However, a blip of the down-shift paddle fed me higher revs, an arbitrary number selection, and better throttle response. 

Better yet, the turbocharged three-cylinder (yes, you read that right) engine did its best to be musical, something I greatly appreciated. Just don’t expect something from the inline-six or V8 section of the automotive orchestra.

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).