Most hybrids sold today are parallel hybrids, in which the electric motors and the gas engine share the job of moving the vehicle. The Rogue Hybrid is a series hybrid: its gas engine is never connected to the wheels and works only as a generator, charging a battery that powers two electric motors. Consumer Reports described it as essentially an electric car that does not plug in, and said this is the first time the approach has been used in the U.S.
Nissan classifies the system as a segment first, based on AutoPacific segmentation. It never requires plugging in; drivers refuel at any gas station.
The generator is a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine that feeds a 1.67-kWh lithium-ion battery. Combined output is 225 horsepower. Dual-motor all-wheel drive is standard on every trim, and the powertrain uses no transmission. Nissan says e-POWER has been refined over three generations and nearly 2 million global sales.
Nissan targets 40 mpg city, 36 mpg highway and 38 mpg combined for the SR, based on Nissan internal testing and subject to EPA confirmation. Actual mileage will vary. The Rogue Hybrid also brings back e-Pedal, which allows one-pedal driving in many situations, including coming to a complete stop without touching the brake.