​​Which Affordable Electric SUV is Better: Chevrolet Equinox EV or Nissan Leaf?​ 

There is a broader choice of small/compact electric SUVs for sale today. They have improved over the years, offering more range, enhanced battery life, and improved charging capabilities. They are now more practical, offering more comfort, cargo space, and driver technology, and the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV has been one of the top choices in this segment. 

How does the 2026 Equinox EV compare with one of its competitors? In this case, the 2026 Nissan Leaf. Edmunds.com compared both electric vehicles to determine which one is the best.  

What’s similar and different between these two EVs? Both the 2026 Equinox EV and Leaf offer a single-motor model, driving the front wheels. The Chevrolet provides a range of 319 miles at a full state of charge. However, you can get the Chevrolet in a two-motor all-wheel drive configuration. Nissan does not offer such a driveline in their Leaf.  

Being an SUV, the 2026 Equinox EV offers more space overall. Edmunds.com explains that they “love all the little cubbies and bins in the Equinox for storing small items. Cargo capacity is also pretty good for the class, with 26.4 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, expanding to 57.2 cubic feet when the rear seats fold flat.” Additionally, they said that “the Chevrolet does a great job in terms of passenger space. The rear doors open wide to make loading in a car seat easy, and rear air vents and USB ports are standard.” 

Chevrolet is at the forefront of providing the latest technology at a more affordable price. As Edmunds.com points out, “we really like the new infotainment system in the Equinox EV with its large screen and simple interface. Like the Leaf, Google Maps, Assistant, and Play Store are all here, but buyers get an eight-year subscription for free.” 

It all comes down to the driving experience. Edmunds.com states that “the Equinox is definitely smoother and more enjoyable to drive than the Leaf, but other compact electric SUVs have more power and better driving dynamics. Still, you can get an Equinox EV in all-wheel drive, and it’s pretty quiet. Top trims get the option of Super Cruise, GM’s hands-free/eyes-up driving assist.” 

When they looked at the 2026 Equinox EV overall, Edmunds.com stated that it is “roomier, rides better, and has all the range a commuter could want. It is slightly more expensive, but it might just provide more value.” They also believe that it is the “better choice.” 

If the 2026 Equinox EV is your next electric SUV, contact us at McFarland Chevrolet to schedule a test drive soon!