Ford Escape vs. Chevrolet Equinox: Which Compact SUV is Right for You?

1. Performance and Efficiency
Compact SUV buyers often prioritize performance and fuel efficiency, and both the Ford Escape and Chevrolet Equinox aim to deliver on these fronts. However, their approaches differ, offering unique strengths.
Ford Escape
- Engine Options:
- Base: 1.5L EcoBoost® turbocharged 3-cylinder with 180 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque.
- Optional: 2.0L EcoBoost® turbocharged 4-cylinder with 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque.
- Hybrid Options: Available hybrid and plug-in hybrid models offer up to 44 mpg city.
- Gasoline MPG: 1.5L EcoBoost® achieves 27 mpg city / 34 mpg highway.
- Acceleration: The 2.0L EcoBoost® accelerates from 0-60 mph in approximately 6.9 seconds.
Chevrolet Equinox
- Engine: 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque.
- Gasoline MPG: Delivers 26 mpg city / 31 mpg highway.
- Hybrid Options: Currently unavailable.
- Acceleration: Reaches 0-60 mph in about 8.9 seconds.
2. Interior Space and Cargo Flexibility
Interior design and cargo capacity play a vital role in the functionality of compact SUVs, especially for families or active lifestyles. Both models offer spacious cabins, but small details set them apart.
Ford Escape
- Cargo Capacity:
- 37.5 cubic feet of space behind the second row.
- Expands to 65.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat.
- Rear Seats: Sliding rear seats come standard, allowing drivers to easily adjust for extra passenger legroom or additional cargo space.
- Interior Technology: Optional 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster for clear, customizable driving information.
Chevrolet Equinox
- Cargo Capacity:
- 29.9 cubic feet behind the second row.
- Maxes out at 63.9 cubic feet with seats folded.
- Rear Seats: Fixed rear seating reduces flexibility for balancing cargo and passenger needs.
- Interior Technology: Includes an 8-inch touchscreen display on higher trims.
3. Technology and Connectivity
Modern vehicles are defined by their technology, and both SUVs come equipped with systems designed to keep drivers connected and informed.
Ford Escape
- Infotainment System: SYNC® 4 system with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, voice recognition, and over-the-air updates.
- Driver Assistance: Ford Co-Pilot360â„¢ includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Lane-Centering, and Evasive Steering Assist.
- Digital Display: Available 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster.
Chevrolet Equinox
- Infotainment System: Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, though wireless integration is limited to higher trims.
- Driver Assistance: Chevy Safety Assist is standard and includes features like Lane Keep Assist and Automatic Emergency Braking.
4. Side-by-Side Comparison
Category | Ford Escape | Chevrolet Equinox |
---|---|---|
Base Engine | 1.5L EcoBoost® (180 HP, 199 lb-ft) | 1.5L Turbo (175 HP, 203 lb-ft) |
Optional Engine | 2.0L EcoBoost® (250 HP, 280 lb-ft) | None |
Hybrid Options | Yes (Hybrid & Plug-In Hybrid) | No |
Fuel Efficiency | 27/34 mpg (gas), 44 mpg (hybrid) | 26/31 mpg |
Cargo Space (Max) | 65.4 cubic feet | 63.9 cubic feet |
Sliding Rear Seats | Yes | No |
Infotainment | SYNC® 4 with wireless CarPlay/Android Auto | Chevrolet Infotainment 3, wired on base trims |
FAQs: Ford Escape vs. Chevrolet Equinox
- Q1. How does the Escape’s fuel efficiency compare to the Equinox?
- The Escape offers better fuel efficiency with up to 44 mpg city from its hybrid option, compared to the Equinox’s 26/31 mpg.
- Q2. What sets the Ford Escape apart in terms of interior flexibility?
- The Escape features sliding rear seats and a slightly larger maximum cargo capacity, providing more versatility.
- Q3. Which SUV has more powerful engine options?
- The Escape offers an optional 2.0L EcoBoost® engine with 250 horsepower, which the Equinox lacks.
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