Video: 2025 Nissan Rogue Rock Creek: More Off-Pavement Than Off-Road

(uptempo music) While it's mud-inspired paint job makes it look at home in the woods, does it have other goodies that make it able to conquer the outdoors or is it just an appearance package? Let's take a look at what you get with this trim level. Outside, it sure looks ready for action. Rock Creek extras include rugged-looking bodywork along the grill, gloss black accents, chunky Falken WildPeak all-terrain tires on satin black 17 inch wheels, and some unique Rock Creek badging in lava red. It also comes standard with a roof rack that can carry up to 220 pounds while in motion. So it'd be good for a couple of bikes. All of these goodies project go-anywhere confidence. But can it? The answer is that it depends. All-wheel drive is standard, but it's not that different from the system on regular Rogue models. The Rock Creek's powertrain is the same too. It uses a 201 horsepower turbocharged, 1.5 liter 3-cylinder engine mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission, but it's not all for show. Some mechanical tweaks increase its functionality off-pavement. Nissan engineers re-tuned the shock absorbers to accommodate the all-terrain tires and they added unique steering tuning and stability system tuning as well. So it's off-road mode is more capable. Rock Creek models also get a hill descent control system to help drivers automatically maintain a steady speed when going down steep inclines. While the Rock Creek is capable of navigating gravel and dirt roads, it's out of its league on anything else. Plus, it doesn't have skid plates or any other extra underbody protection, and its ground clearance is the same as the regular Rogue's 8.2 inches. On pavement, the Rock Creek drives much like a regular Rogue with adequate power, a kinda loud cranky CVT and a comfortable ride, even with the larger tires. Fuel economy takes a hit, however. Its combined MPG drops to 29 MPG, two lower than other all-wheel drive versions of the Rogue. Inside, the Rock Creek trim gets a couple of extras and most of them are functional. Its seats are trimmed in the matching lava red stitching and use a moisture-repellent nylon material that should be easy to clean. Similarly, rubber cargo and floor mats are also mess-friendly. Additionally, the Rock Creek trim gets a 360 degree camera system with off-road functionality to help in spotting and avoiding obstacles, as well as a 12-volt power source in the cargo area, handy for camping. Another notable thing about the Rock Creek trim is its price. It starts around $37,000 and sits in the middle of the Rogue lineup. A base Rogue starts at around $31,000 and tops out with the platinum trim at around $41,000. So while the Rock Creek trim is more than an appearance package, it's not by much. Those shopping for a rugged-looking SUV that can go off-pavement on gravel or dirt should give the Rock Creek a look. But if you're looking for a true off-roader with real capabilities, shoppers should look for something with a Pro-4X badge. Find all of our coverage on the Nissan Rogue at cars.com/news.