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Which is roomier, Nissan Rogue or Chevy Equinox?

The Nissan Rogue is roomier overall, offering more cargo space and slightly more interior room than the Chevy Equinox. The difference is most noticeable in cargo capacity with the rear seats in use and when folded.

To determine which SUV feels roomier in everyday use, we compare official cargo volumes behind the second row and with the rear seats folded, as well as passenger-volume figures for both models. The Rogue and Equinox are similar in overall interior volume, but the Rogue tends to edge ahead on cargo space and, by a small margin, on total passenger space as well.

Cargo capacity

Cargo space is a quick proxy for how much gear you can haul, from groceries to luggage. The measurements below reflect standard configurations with the rear seats in place and folded, which is how most buyers use the space day to day.

Nissan Rogue behind second row: 36.5 cubic feet

Nissan Rogue with rear seats folded: 74.1 cubic feet

Chevy Equinox behind second row: 29.9 cubic feet

Chevy Equinox with rear seats folded: 63.9 cubic feet

Conclusion: In terms of cargo capacity, the Nissan Rogue offers substantially more space both with the rear seats up and down, making it the roomier choice for gear-heavy tasks.

Passenger space

Interior volume for passengers measures how comfortable the cabin is for people, including headroom, legroom, and shoulder room across front and rear seats. The following figures help illustrate which SUV feels more spacious for occupants.

Nissan Rogue passenger volume: about 105 cubic feet

Chevy Equinox passenger volume: about 103 cubic feet

Conclusion: Both models provide competitive passenger space for a compact SUV class. The Rogue edges the Equinox by a small margin in total interior volume, though the Equinox remains comfortable for four adults on longer drives.

Bottom line

Overall, the Nissan Rogue is the roomier option when you prioritize cargo capacity, with notably more space behind the rear seats and a slight edge in total interior volume. The Chevy Equinox remains a strong, comfortable alternative with adequate cargo and passenger space, often paired with a compelling feature set and pricing depending on trim and options.

Summary

In practical terms, if roominess is your primary criterion, the Nissan Rogue is the roomier choice thanks to its larger cargo area and comparable or slightly larger interior volume for passengers. If you place greater emphasis on a balanced package with strong seat comfort and efficient packaging, the Chevy Equinox still delivers solid space and value.

What is the downside of the Nissan Rogue?

Common Nissan Rogue Issues
Transmission Problems: Many owner reports center on the Rogue's continuously variable transmission (CVT). Drivers describe jerking, shuddering, hesitation off the line, and occasional stalling.

What are the disadvantages of the Equinox?

Common cons for the Chevy Equinox include issues with engine and transmission problems (especially in certain model years), a noisy cabin due to road and wind noise, unrefined ride quality, and disappointing fuel economy in some versions. Specific problems like excessive oil consumption, clattering noises at startup, and a weak sound system have also been reported.

This video discusses some reasons to avoid the 2024 Chevy Equinox: 1mMotor FutureYouTube · Jan 20, 2024
Engine and performance

Engine and transmission issues: Some model years have a history of major problems, such as transmission failures, blown head gaskets, and excessive oil consumption.
Slow performance: The engine can be underpowered, especially for merging or accelerating on inclines, and the acceleration can feel delayed.
Engine noise: The engine can be loud and clunky.
Poor fuel economy: Fuel efficiency is sometimes disappointing, particularly in base models.
Start-stop system: The automatic start-stop system is sometimes described as unrefined.

This video explains why the 2024 Chevy Equinox is not recommended: 51sOverdrive ReviewsYouTube · May 2, 2024
Ride and cabin

Noisy cabin: The Equinox can be loud inside due to wind and road noise.
Rough ride: The ride quality is often described as unrefined and can be bumpy over imperfect roads.
Vibration: Some owners report vibrations in the steering wheel and accelerator pedal.
Sound system: The standard sound system is a common complaint, with users finding it lacks bass and clarity.
Uncomfortable seats: Some owners find the seats uncomfortable for long drives.

Reliability and safety

Check engine light: The "check engine" light frequently activates on some models.
Electrical issues: The vehicle has been subject to electrical problems.
Safety concerns: Some specific model years have had recalls and reports of safety issues, such as stalling and brake warnings.
LATCH system: Earlier models, particularly the 2017, had a poorly designed LATCH system for child seats.

This video discusses the pros and cons of the 2023 Chevy Equinox: 55sThe Ben Hardy ShowYouTube · Dec 1, 2022

Which car is better, Chevy or Nissan?

Neither brand is definitively "better" than the other, as the best choice depends on your priorities. Nissan often excels in areas like fuel efficiency, safety technology, and resale value, while Chevrolet may be better for drivers who prioritize factors like towing capacity, overall quality, and depreciation. Ultimately, it's best to compare specific models, such as the Nissan Rogue versus the Chevy Equinox, to see which best fits your needs.

Nissan advantages

Fuel efficiency: Nissan vehicles generally have better fuel economy ratings, with some models achieving up to 40 highway MPG.
Safety technology: Nissan offers advanced features like ProPILOT Assist, which includes steering assistance and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability.
Resale value: Nissan vehicles are reported to have better resale value.
Price: The starting price for some Nissan models can be lower than comparable Chevy models.

Chevrolet advantages

Towing capacity: Chevy has an advantage in towing capacity.
Depreciation: Chevrolet may perform better in terms of depreciation.
Overall quality: Some reports indicate Chevrolet holds an advantage in overall quality.
Interior features: Some Chevy models, like the Silverado, offer more advanced interior technology and features compared to competitors.

How to choose

For fuel efficiency and advanced safety tech: A Nissan is likely a better fit.
For towing or lower depreciation: A Chevrolet might be the more suitable choice.
For a specific model comparison: Research individual models side-by-side, as the winner can vary depending on the vehicle class you are comparing.

What's better, Chevy Equinox or Nissan Rogue?

The Nissan Rogue is generally a better choice for more modern features, cargo space, and fuel efficiency, while the Chevrolet Equinox offers a simpler lineup, potentially better value, and more torque. The Rogue features a standard turbocharged three-cylinder engine with more horsepower and higher MPG ratings, and it provides more cargo and passenger space. The Equinox has a more traditional four-cylinder engine with a six-speed transmission and a more limited selection of trims, which can make it a less expensive option overall.
You can watch this video to see a comparison of the exterior design and interior features of both vehicles: 57sCarsFXYouTube · May 27, 2017
Nissan Rogue

Performance: Standard turbocharged 3-cylinder engine with 201 horsepower and a higher fuel economy of up to 37 highway MPG.
Cargo space: More cargo room with 36.8 cubic feet behind the second row and 72 cubic feet with the seats folded.
Interior and technology: Features a more upscale interior with a minimalist design and offers advanced tech like the available ProPILOT Assist for hands-free driving on highways.
Trim options: Offers a wider range of trims (S, SV, Rock Creek, SL, and Platinum) which allows for more customization.

Chevrolet Equinox

Performance: Standard 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 175 horsepower.
Cargo space: Less cargo room with 29.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 63.9 cubic feet with the seats folded.
Interior and technology: More conventional interior design, but it is functional and practical. It does not offer any equivalent to the Rogue's available hands-free driving system.
Trim options: A simpler lineup with fewer trim options (LT, RS, and ACTIV) which can lead to better overall value since the top trim caps out at a lower price.

This video demonstrates the performance and handling of the Chevrolet Equinox: 30sMark Wahlberg Chevrolet of WorthingtonYouTube · Dec 28, 2023
Which one should you choose?

Choose the Nissan Rogue if your priorities are performance, fuel economy, and cargo space. You will also benefit from a more upscale interior and advanced technology features like available hands-free driving.
Choose the Chevy Equinox if you are on a tighter budget or prefer a simpler vehicle with a more conventional engine and transmission. It is a practical and dependable SUV that may offer better value in terms of price, especially for lower trim levels.

This video discusses how to choose between the Chevrolet Equinox and Nissan Rogue: 59sVersus VerdictYouTube · Sep 4, 2025

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.