Playing catch-up with crossover SUV class leaders such as the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CRV isn't easy. But the new Nissan Rogue seems to suggest that in this coveted market segment, there is room for one more.

Much like the two frontrunners, Rogue's target demographic is women in their thirties. That means storage space galore all over the cabin. A huge glove box; a functional console with holders for pens, notepads and ID cards; an overhead holder for sunglasses; front-door pockets; four cargo tie-down hooks; and under-floor storage compartment are enough to accommodate everything from work necessities and kids' gear to farmer's-market purchases.

But everyone will appreciate the 170-hp, 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine. This is the same engine that powers the new Nissan Altima, giving Rogue the most horses in the class. Keep in mind, however, that if you live in California or some northeastern states such as New York and Massachusetts, CAL emissions (PZEV) equipment will cause a nominal reduction in horsepower, typically by no more than 3 ponies. In the fuel-economy department, the Rouge leads once again, offering 22/27 mpg for the FWD and 21/26 mpg for the AWD version.

What's particularly interesting is that Rogue's engine is larger than those of the RAV4 and CRV, both displacing 2.4 liters. The only explanation for superior fuel economy despite the more voluminous drivetrain is the Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission, which Nissan now offers on all models.

In addition to being the greenest and most powerful, the new Rogue is also pretty hi-tech. The problem is that most of the gadgetry is available only on the pricier SL model. So if the $27,000 sticker doesn't give you a jolt, your Nissan Rouge will come with heated leather seats, a Bluetooth cell phone link, eight-speaker Bose audio, a Smartkey system with remote entry, and an auxiliary jack for your MP3 player.

Of course, both of the Honda and Toyota crossovers offer more refined rides. The RAV4 also seems much more stylish. Even though the Rogue's front grill is all Nissan, from the back it somehow reminds me of the burgeoning Hyundai Santa Fe. But that is merely looks, and this is one man's opinion.

At only $19,250 list for the base model, this little SUV offers plenty of verve, a long list of options and a very sweet price. Despite the late market entry, the Nissan Rogue is guaranteed a fan base.