Nissan Rogue Vs Equinox: Uncovering The True Champion Of Compact Suvs

Essential Information

The Rogue returns an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel-drive models achieve 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
5-liter engine, offers slightly better fuel economy, achieving 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive, and 25 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway with all-wheel drive.
Both the Nissan Rogue and Chevrolet Equinox come equipped with a suite of advanced technology features to keep you connected and entertained on the road.

In the realm of compact SUVs, two contenders stand out: the Nissan Rogue and the Chevrolet Equinox. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of practicality, comfort, and performance, making them popular choices among families and adventurers alike. However, discerning buyers often find themselves torn between these two exceptional SUVs. This comprehensive comparison delves into the intricacies of the Nissan Rogue and Chevrolet Equinox, unveiling their strengths, weaknesses, and unique characteristics to help you make an informed decision.

Performance: Powertrains and Driving Dynamics

Under the hood, the Nissan Rogue boasts a refined 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a smooth-shifting CVT transmission, the Rogue delivers a balanced blend of power and fuel efficiency. On the other hand, the Chevrolet Equinox offers two engine options: a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, and a more potent 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

In terms of driving dynamics, the Nissan Rogue offers a comfortable and composed ride, with its suspension effectively absorbing road imperfections. The steering is responsive and well-weighted, providing a sense of control and agility. The Chevrolet Equinox, on the other hand, delivers a slightly sportier driving experience, with its stiffer suspension providing better handling and stability at higher speeds. However, this comes at the expense of ride comfort, as the Equinox tends to feel more jittery over rough roads.

Fuel Efficiency: Battling for Mileage Supremacy

Fuel efficiency is a crucial consideration for many SUV buyers, and both the Nissan Rogue and Chevrolet Equinox deliver impressive MPG ratings. The Rogue returns an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel-drive models achieve 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The Equinox, with its turbocharged 1.5-liter engine, offers slightly better fuel economy, achieving 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive, and 25 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway with all-wheel drive.

Interior Space and Comfort: Room for Passengers and Cargo

When it comes to interior space, the Nissan Rogue and Chevrolet Equinox offer ample room for passengers and cargo. The Rogue provides generous headroom and legroom in both rows, making it comfortable for taller individuals. The cargo area offers 39.3 cubic feet of space behind the second row of seats, expanding to 70 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Chevrolet Equinox offers slightly more cargo space, with 39.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 63.9 cubic feet with the seats folded down. However, the Equinox’s rear seat is not as spacious as the Rogue’s, with less legroom and headroom for rear passengers.

In terms of comfort, both SUVs offer well-cushioned seats and a quiet cabin, ensuring a pleasant ride for all occupants. The Rogue’s seats are particularly supportive, providing excellent lumbar support for long journeys. The Equinox, on the other hand, offers a more customizable seating position with its power-adjustable driver’s seat.

Technology and Features: Connectivity and Convenience

Both the Nissan Rogue and Chevrolet Equinox come equipped with a suite of advanced technology features to keep you connected and entertained on the road. The Rogue features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a Bose premium audio system. The Equinox, on the other hand, boasts a larger 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, along with a Bose premium audio system.

In terms of safety features, the Rogue and Equinox offer a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Equinox, however, offers a few additional features such as adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist, which are not available on the Rogue.

Safety: Protecting What Matters Most

When it comes to safety, both the Nissan Rogue and Chevrolet Equinox have earned impressive ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Rogue received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick++ by the IIHS. The Equinox also received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.

Both SUVs offer a comprehensive suite of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, to protect occupants in the event of a collision. Additionally, both vehicles come equipped with electronic stability control and traction control systems to help maintain control in slippery conditions.

Which SUV Reigns Supreme?

After a thorough comparison of the Nissan Rogue and Chevrolet Equinox, it becomes evident that both SUVs offer compelling attributes that cater to different needs and preferences. The Nissan Rogue excels in terms of fuel efficiency, interior space, and comfort, making it an ideal choice for families and those seeking a comfortable and practical SUV. On the other hand, the Chevrolet Equinox offers a more engaging driving experience, better cargo space, and a more comprehensive suite of technology and safety features, making it a great choice for those seeking a sportier and feature-rich SUV.

Ultimately, the decision between the Nissan Rogue and Chevrolet Equinox depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, space, and comfort, the Rogue is an excellent choice. However, if you desire a more engaging driving experience, better cargo space, and a wider range of features, the Equinox is the way to go.