Nissan gives its popular Rogue model an electric motor

Small SUVs have taken over the list of the top 10 best-selling cars in the US, and the Nissan Rogue regularly contends with competitors such as the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5 and Ford Escape for position.

Following in the footsteps of Toyota, which released its RAV4 Hybrid last year, Nissan offers a new hybrid gasoline-electric drivetrain for its Rogue small SUV.

The Rogue Hybrid shows EPA fuel economy of 31 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, along with 176 horsepower, six more than the standard, gasoline-only Rogue.

The Rogue Hybrid is available in SV and SL trims, with the latter adding LED headlights.

Nissan offers the Rogue Hybrid in front- or all-wheel-drive, with the former getting slightly better fuel economy. The all-wheel-drive system features a torque lock, to ensure power is going to all four wheels when needed.

The Rogue Hybrid offers seating for five along with room for cargo.

The hybrid drivetrain consists of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine complemented by a 30-kilowatt electric motor. A battery pack under the cargo floor stores energy gathered from braking.

The Rogue Hybrid's available surround-view camera helps when maneuvering through tight parking garages.

Given its pricing, commanding just a $1,000 premium over its gasoline-only sibling, the Rogue Hybrid looks like a good value.