
Quick Summary:
Price: $849
Pros
- Excellent Heat Control: Offers precise temperature adjustments, making it easy to switch between high-heat searing and low-heat roasting.
- Durable Stainless Steel Construction: Designed to withstand various weather conditions, ensuring longevity.
- Versatile Cooking Options: The infrared side burner and optional smoker box provide flexibility for various grilling techniques, from searing to smoking.
- Ample Cooking Space: With a large cooking area that accommodates up to 32 burgers, it's ideal for hosting larger gatherings.
- Easy Ignition System: The battery-free Jetfire ignition makes starting the grill effortless, providing a quick and reliable start every time.
Cons
- Large Size: Takes up a significant amount of space, which may not be ideal for those with smaller outdoor areas unless side shelves are folded regularly.
- Learning Curve for Beginners: The precise temperature controls can be a bit challenging for those new to grilling, requiring some practice to master.
Straight out of the box, the Napoleon Rogue 525 made a strong first impression with its blend of style and durability. The sleek stainless-steel finish instantly added a modern, polished look that would enhance any backyard setup. Beyond aesthetics, I was eager to test its performance, especially given its robust appearance.
During assembly, one standout feature was the grill's solid construction. Each part felt well-made, giving me confidence in the grill's longevity. While the setup took about an hour, the instructions were clear, making it a manageable task. If assembly isn’t your strong suit, an extra hand could be helpful, but overall, it was straightforward.
The Design and Build of the Napoleon Rogue 525
The Napoleon Rogue 525’s design is one of its most impressive features. With four main burners and an additional side burner, this grill offers flexible cooking options. Whether preparing a batch of burgers or searing steaks, the multiple burners make multitasking a breeze, perfect for cooking different dishes simultaneously.
The stainless-steel cooking grids are another highlight—they retain heat exceptionally well, producing those ideal grill marks. The Jetfire ignition system also deserves mention. It consistently fires up the grill with a single push, eliminating the need for multiple attempts. With 760 square inches of cooking space, this grill hits the sweet spot—not so large that it takes over the patio, but big enough for versatile cooking.

Cooking Performance of the Napoleon Rogue 525
Over several weeks, I put the Napoleon Rogue 525 through its paces with various foods, from steaks and chicken to vegetables and fish. Every session reinforced its consistent performance, with food cooking evenly and to perfection each time.
One standout feature was the even heat distribution. Many grills struggle with temperature consistency, but with the Napoleon Rogue 525, I didn’t encounter any cold spots. The side burner also became a favorite for warming sauces or sides while grilling the main course—a convenient addition that saved time and kept everything within reach.
Key Features I Loved About the Napoleon Rogue 525
Several features set the Napoleon Rogue 525 apart from other grills in its category. Here are some that I found particularly valuable:
- Wave Cooking Grids: The wave design offers better heat distribution, ensuring even cooking and reducing the chance of food sticking.
- Dual-Level Searing Plates: These plates vaporize drippings effectively, reducing flare-ups and adding a delicious smoky flavor to grilled food, especially for fattier meats.
- Ease of Cleaning: Cleaning is straightforward thanks to stainless-steel components that wipe down easily and a removable drip tray that collects grease.
- Foldable Side Shelves: These space-saving shelves can be folded down after grilling, making storage more convenient.

Handling Various Types of Food on the Napoleon Rogue 525
The Napoleon Rogue 525 was versatile, handling a variety of foods with ease, from thick steaks to delicate fish and vegetables. Temperature control was straightforward, allowing me to adjust for each type of food.
For example, steaks seared beautifully on high heat and could then be moved to indirect heat to finish cooking. Fish, known for its delicate texture, was also easy to grill thanks to the grill’s non-stick design and even heat distribution, resulting in perfectly cooked, evenly grilled fish every time.
My Experience with Heat Control on the Napoleon Rogue 525
Effective heat control is essential for quality grilling, and the Napoleon Rogue 525 excels here. The four burners allow for different heat zones, ideal for preparing multiple dishes at varying temperatures. I could sear on one side while keeping other foods warm on lower heat settings.
The built-in thermometer on the lid provides accurate temperature readings without lifting the lid, helping maintain consistent heat, which is especially beneficial for grilling larger cuts of meat.
Durability and Build Quality of the Napoleon Rogue 525
Durability is crucial when investing in a grill, and the Napoleon Rogue 525 delivers. The stainless-steel construction not only looks sleek but also feels sturdy and resistant to wear. Even after several weeks of regular use, there were no signs of wear or tear.
The cast-iron cooking grids withstand high heat without warping, making this grill feel reliable and built to last, even with frequent use. Its solid construction and thoughtful design make it a reliable choice for those who love to grill often.
Areas for Improvement in the Napoleon Rogue 525
Despite my positive experience, there are a few areas where the Napoleon Rogue 525 could be improved. For one, the grill’s mobility could use enhancement. While it has wheels, they aren’t the smoothest, especially on uneven surfaces. This isn’t a major drawback but something to consider if you plan to move the grill frequently.
Additionally, the lack of a built-in rotisserie might be disappointing for those who enjoy rotisserie cooking. Though compatible with a rotisserie kit, it isn’t included, which may require an additional purchase.
Who is the Napoleon Rogue 525 Best For?
The Napoleon Rogue 525 is ideal for anyone who enjoys frequent grilling and seeks a high-quality, versatile gas grill. It provides ample cooking space without being overly large, making it suitable for both casual and enthusiastic grillers alike.
With its blend of performance, durability, and style, this grill is a worthy investment for anyone passionate about outdoor cooking. Its versatile features and reliable build quality make it perfect for both small family dinners and large gatherings.

Conclusion
The Napoleon Rogue 525 has exceeded my expectations in nearly every area. Its sleek design, reliable cooking performance, and ease of use make it one of the top contenders in the gas grill market. From even heat distribution and a dependable ignition system to versatile cooking features, this grill has proven to be both enjoyable and efficient to use. I’ve grilled everything from burgers to fish, and each session has been consistently successful.
Though there are minor drawbacks, like the wheel mobility and the lack of a rotisserie kit, these don’t outweigh the overall quality and performance of the grill. For anyone in the market for a high-quality gas grill, the Napoleon Rogue 525 is an excellent choice. It has become an essential part of my outdoor cooking routine, and I highly recommend it for anyone looking to enhance their grilling experience.
FAQs for Napoleon Rogue 525 Review
Q: How many burners does the Napoleon Rogue 525 have?
A: The Napoleon Rogue 525 has four main burners plus an additional side burner, offering flexible cooking options, including searing, slow cooking, and preparing side dishes simultaneously.
Q: What is the total cooking area of the Napoleon Rogue 525?
A: The grill provides a spacious 760 square inches of cooking area, making it suitable for both small gatherings and larger groups.
Q: Is the Napoleon Rogue 525 easy to assemble?
A: Yes, assembly is relatively straightforward and takes about an hour. The instructions are clear, and an extra pair of hands can be helpful.
Q: How well does the Napoleon Rogue 525 distribute heat?
A: The grill offers excellent heat distribution, thanks to its wave-shaped stainless-steel cooking grids, avoiding hot spots and ensuring consistent cooking.
Q: Can I cook different types of food simultaneously on the Napoleon Rogue 525?
A: Yes, the four burners allow for multiple heat zones, so you can sear on high heat while slow-cooking vegetables.
Q: Does the Napoleon Rogue 525 come with a rotisserie?
A: The grill doesn’t include a rotisserie kit, but it is compatible with one, which can be purchased separately.
Q: Is the Napoleon Rogue 525 durable enough for year-round outdoor use?
A: Yes, the stainless-steel construction is resistant to rust and wear, though it’s recommended to use a grill cover for added protection against weather.
Q: How easy is it to clean the Napoleon Rogue 525?
A: Cleaning is straightforward, with stainless-steel grids that wipe down easily and a removable drip tray that catches grease.
Q: What kind of ignition system does the Napoleon Rogue 525 use?
A: The grill features the Jetfire ignition system, providing reliable startup with the push of a button.
Q: Is the Napoleon Rogue 525 portable?
A: The grill has wheels, making it somewhat portable, though it may be difficult to maneuver on uneven surfaces.