What To Know
- While the Rogue’s CVT provides a smooth and efficient ride, the Equinox’s turbocharged engines offer a more spirited driving experience, particularly with the 2.
- The Equinox also offers a range of available features, including a heated steering wheel, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium Bose sound system.
- The Nissan Rogue starts at a lower price point than the Chevrolet Equinox, making it a more budget-friendly option.
Choosing the perfect compact SUV can be a daunting task, with so many excellent options available. Two popular contenders often top the list: the Nissan Rogue and the Chevrolet Equinox. Both vehicles offer a blend of practicality, comfort, and performance, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, performance, interior, safety, and pricing of these two SUVs to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Handling: A Tale of Two Engines
The Nissan Rogue and Chevrolet Equinox offer distinct driving experiences, largely due to their engine options. The Rogue comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT transmission. This setup delivers smooth acceleration and decent fuel economy, making it suitable for everyday driving.
The Equinox, on the other hand, offers two engine choices. The base model features a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine generating 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission. For those seeking more power, the optional 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers a robust 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
While the Rogue’s CVT provides a smooth and efficient ride, the Equinox’s turbocharged engines offer a more spirited driving experience, particularly with the 2.0-liter option. The Equinox’s handling is also slightly sportier, with a more responsive steering feel.
Interior Comfort and Technology: A Battle of Amenities
Both the Rogue and Equinox prioritize comfort and convenience for their passengers. The Rogue boasts a spacious and well-appointed interior with comfortable seats and ample legroom for both front and rear passengers. Its intuitive infotainment system features a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, along with a suite of driver-assist features.
The Equinox’s interior is similarly comfortable and spacious, with a modern design and high-quality materials. It comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering a larger display than the Rogue. The Equinox also offers a range of available features, including a heated steering wheel, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium Bose sound system.
Cargo Space and Versatility: Practicality Takes Center Stage
When it comes to cargo space, the Equinox edges out the Rogue. The Equinox offers 63.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down, while the Rogue provides 70 cubic feet. However, the Rogue’s lower cargo floor makes it easier to load and unload heavier items. Both vehicles offer a split-folding rear seat, allowing for flexible cargo configurations.
Safety Features: A Focus on Driver Assistance
Both the Nissan Rogue and the Chevrolet Equinox prioritize safety, offering a comprehensive suite of driver-assist features. The Rogue comes standard with features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring. Higher trim levels add features like adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, and a driver attention monitor.
The Equinox also boasts a strong safety profile, with standard features like automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and a rearview camera. Available features include adaptive cruise control, lane change alert, and a rear cross-traffic alert. Both SUVs have earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.
Fuel Efficiency: A Balancing Act of Power and Economy
Fuel economy is a crucial factor for many SUV buyers. The Nissan Rogue boasts impressive fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined for the standard engine. The Chevrolet Equinox’s fuel economy varies depending on the engine choice. The 1.5-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined. The 2.0-liter engine, while delivering more power, sees a slight decrease in fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined.
Pricing and Value: Finding the Best Deal
The Nissan Rogue starts at a lower price point than the Chevrolet Equinox, making it a more budget-friendly option. However, the Equinox’s available features and more powerful engine options can quickly increase its price tag. Ultimately, the best value for your money depends on your individual needs and preferences.
The Verdict: Choosing Your Perfect Ride
Both the Nissan Rogue and the Chevrolet Equinox are excellent compact SUVs, each offering a unique blend of features and benefits. The Rogue stands out with its fuel efficiency, comfortable interior, and intuitive infotainment system. The Equinox, on the other hand, impresses with its powerful engine options, spacious cargo area, and available advanced technology features.
Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your priorities. If fuel economy and a comfortable ride are paramount, the Nissan Rogue is an excellent option. If you prioritize power and cargo space, the Chevrolet Equinox might be a better fit.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q1: Which SUV is better for a family with young children?
Both the Rogue and Equinox offer ample space and safety features for families with young children. The Rogue’s lower cargo floor makes it easier to load and unload car seats, while the Equinox’s spacious rear seats provide ample legroom for growing children.
Q2: Which SUV is more reliable?
Both the Rogue and Equinox have solid reliability ratings. However, the Rogue has consistently ranked higher in reliability surveys, making it a slightly more reliable choice overall.
Q3: Which SUV is better for off-roading?
Neither the Rogue nor the Equinox is designed for serious off-roading. Both SUVs are primarily built for on-road driving and offer limited ground clearance and all-wheel drive options.
Q4: Which SUV offers more technology features?
The Equinox offers a slightly more advanced suite of technology features, including a larger touchscreen infotainment system and available features like a head-up display and a premium Bose sound system.
Q5: Which SUV is better for city driving?
The Rogue’s fuel efficiency and smooth handling make it a good choice for city driving. However, the Equinox’s powerful engine options can also provide a confident driving experience in urban environments.
