2023 Chevrolet Equinox vs 2022 Nissan Rogue

The 2022 Nissan Rogue had established itself as a staple in Nissan’s lineup since 2007, with a significant redesign in 2013 that propelled it into strong competition with the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. The 2022 model year retained the mature and sophisticated look introduced in the previous year. The exterior design showcased Nissan’s V-motion grille, flanked by multi-level LED headlights with daytime running lights above the main headlight and LED foglamps in the higher trims. Aerodynamic improvements included active grille shutters, underbody covers, and an “air curtain” to direct airflow. The floating roof illusion created by dark supporting pillars and a slightly bulging liftgate enhanced the sleek appearance.

Inside, the Rogue’s cabin followed a modern, layered dash design with a mix of contrasting colors and textures across different trims. The center console was a focal point due to its electronic gear selector, freeing up space for a storage area large enough to stow various items. The 9-inch infotainment display was positioned at eye level for better visibility, complemented by a mix of analog and digital instrument panels depending on the trim. The Zero Gravity front seats provided comfort, and the roomy second row offered ample space for passengers. The fit and finish were well-executed, with high-quality materials, especially in the top Platinum trim.

In contrast, the 2023 Chevrolet Equinox, albeit less flashy, presented a solid and attractive design. Its restrained bodywork featured a chunky front end, toning down the aggressive fascia trend and offering a fresh appearance. Available in multiple trims (LS, LT, RS, and Premier), it came with a choice of FWD or AWD. The new paint colors, including Radiant Red Tintcoat, Blue Glow Metallic, Harvest Brown Metallic, and Sterling Gray Metallic, enhanced its appeal. The thick C-pillar and large windows suggested a spacious cabin, which was confirmed upon inspection.

The Premier trim’s interior boasted two-tone leather upholstery and standard heated front seats. Though not as modern as some competitors, with its small touchscreen and basic driver-information display, the Equinox’s simplistic layout was approachable and functional. The traditional PRNDL shift lever was a nod to practicality over the more modern dials and buttons. The Confidence and Convenience II package added desirable features like lumbar adjustments, ventilated front seats, and advanced safety tech, making the top trims more appealing.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue improved significantly in performance with the introduction of the VC-Turbo engine. This 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine produced 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, a notable increase from the previous year's model. The Variable Compression (VC) technology allowed the engine to adjust the compression ratio dynamically, improving power when needed and boosting efficiency during regular driving. This innovative engine achieved impressive fuel economy ratings of 30 mpg city, 37 mpg highway, and 33 mpg combined. The new CVT transmission with broader gear ratios enhanced acceleration and responsiveness while maintaining a smooth and controlled ride. The chassis and suspension were well-tuned, offering minimal body roll and a tight 35.4-foot turning diameter, making the Rogue agile and enjoyable to drive.

On the other hand, the 2023 Chevrolet Equinox was equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, now producing 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque—an increase from the previous model year. Despite this boost, the Equinox’s acceleration felt adequate but not particularly spirited, especially at higher speeds. The six-speed automatic transmission, while reliable, held gears longer than more modern transmissions, contributing to increased noise levels during acceleration. The AWD system required manual engagement, a unique feature that might not appeal to all drivers. The new electronically assisted brake-by-wire system offered smoother and more predictable braking. The Equinox’s suspension handled rough roads well, and the steering was tight and precise, providing a generally pleasant driving experience.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue demonstrated Nissan’s keen attention to detail, especially in terms of storage solutions. The front cabin was replete with bottle holders, cupholders in the console, a glove compartment, a center console bin, a tray beneath the console, and various dash cubbies. For device connectivity, it featured USB-A, USB-C, and 12-volt outlets. Rear passengers also enjoyed ample storage with door pockets, seatback storage, and additional USB charge-only ports. The second-row seats, a 60/40 split reclining bench, contributed to the versatile interior.

Cargo capacity was a strong point for the Rogue, offering between 31.6 to 36.5 cubic feet with the seats up, and an impressive 74.1 cubic feet with the seats folded flat, making it ideal for families and shoppers.

In comparison, the 2023 Chevrolet Equinox had a slightly smaller cargo area. With 29.9 cubic feet available behind the rear seats and a maximum of 63.9 cubic feet with the seats folded, it fell short of the Rogue’s capacity. However, the Equinox provided ample passenger space, comfortably accommodating a six-foot-tall driver with plenty of head- and legroom in both front and rear. The interior used higher-quality plastics compared to older GM models, and the layout included practical storage options like cup holders, a sizable center console bin, and spacious door pockets. The Premier trim’s power liftgate was quiet and efficient, adding a touch of convenience.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue came equipped with significant technology upgrades. The higher trims featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a 10.8-inch head-up display. Integration with Google Maps and Waze facilitated easier navigation, while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless Apple CarPlay available in upper trims. ProPilot Assist with Navi-Link provided advanced driver assistance, using navigation data to adjust speed proactively. Nissan’s Intelligent Key evolved further, allowing all doors to be unlocked from the rear door handles, enhancing convenience.

In contrast, the 2023 Chevrolet Equinox’s tech offerings appeared more basic but functional. The smaller 7-inch touchscreen (8-inch in Premier) was user-friendly, crisp, and responsive. While not flashy, it effectively provided quick access to essential features through customizable icons and hard buttons beneath the screen. Wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and Bluetooth were standard across all trims, with the Premier trim also offering a wireless charging pad. The driver-information display, though simple, included useful features like navigation and trip information.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue boasted the comprehensive Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite across all trims. Key features included automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, high beam assist, and rear automatic braking. The Rogue's ten airbags and extended crumple zones enhanced passive safety, while Intelligent Driver Alertness and rear door alert provided additional safety measures. ProPilot Assist, especially with Navi-Link, represented advanced Level 2 driver-assist technology, combining adaptive cruise control and steering assist. The 2022 Rogue earned a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with the 2021 model receiving a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox also included standard advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic high beams. However, it lacked true Level 2 autonomous driving features. NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating, but the IIHS ratings were less favorable, with a Poor rating in the moderate overlap front crash test and a Marginal score in the side-impact test.