What's the Difference: Ford Escape vs Chevy Equinox

 

Ford Escape vs Chevy Equinox Near Amherst, OH

When you tackle your daily commute on I-80, embark on a family road trip to the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium, or take in a concert at The Cleveland Museum of Contemporary Art, you need a compact SUV designed to keep up with your ever-changing lifestyle.

When it comes to compact SUVs, two names consistently rise to the top: the Ford Escape and the Chevy Equinox. These versatile, efficient, and powerful vehicles have won the hearts of drivers around the world for their performance, fuel efficiency, and overall value. But what exactly sets these two popular models apart, and which one should you choose?

AutoNation Ford Amherst created this easy-to-follow guide for car shoppers in the Medina, Vermilion, Oberlin, Sandusky, and Brunswick areas. Let's take a deep dive into the key differences between the Ford Escape and Chevy Equinox.

Ford Escape vs Chevy Equinox

Features Ford Escape Chevy Equinox
Fuel Economy 24 MPG City - 30 MPG Highway 26 MPG City - 31 MPG Highway
Engine
  • 2.5L Hybrid
  • 2.5L Plug-In Hybrid
  • 1.5L EcoBoost®
  • 2.0L EcoBoost®
  • 1.5L Turbo 4-cylinder
Drivetrain FWD and AWD FWD and AWD
Seating Capacity 5 5
Towing Capacity 1,500 lbs - 2,000 lbs Up to 1,500 lbs
Cargo Capacity 37.5 CU. FT. 63.9 CU. FT.

What's the Difference: Ford Escape vs Chevy Equinox

Reliability and Quality

J.D. Power compiles data and ratings from thousands of independent VIN-verified customers to determine a "predicted reliability score." A score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average, and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.

Ranked #7 in Compact SUV by J.D. Power, the 2023 Ford Escape received an overall consumer rating of 80 with a score of 81 in the Quality and Reliability category.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox ranked as #2 in Compact SUVs. The Equinox received an overall consumer rating of 85 with a score of 90 out of 100 for Quality and Reliability.

Performance and Efficiency

The Ford Escape boasts a range of powertrain options, including Plug-In Hybrid and Hybrid engines, for those who prioritize fuel efficiency. Its available all-wheel drive (AWD) with AWD Disconnect allows for peak performance and control in various driving conditions.

The Escape's towing capacity ranges from 1,500 to 2,000 pounds*, and its available Class II Trailer Tow Package enhances its towing capabilities. Under the hood, the 2.0-liter EcoBoost® Engine with Auto Start-Stop Technology ensures a smooth ride, while its fuel economy is rated at 24 MPG** city and 30 MPG** highway.

The available 2.5-liter iVCT Hybrid engine produces impressive power at 200 horsepower. The fuel economy is just as impressive. Expect 44 MPG** city and 37 MPG** highway.

The Equinox is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, providing solid performance. Its towing capacity maxes out at 1,500 pounds*, slightly lower than the Escape. With standard front-wheel drive (FWD), the Chevy Equinox also offers an AWD option for improved handling and stability.

The Equinox's turbo engine achieves a commendable 26 MPG** city and 31 MPG** highway, giving it a slight edge over the Escape in fuel economy. However, it's worth noting that the Chevy Equinox doesn't currently offer a hybrid option.

Safety and Driving Assistance

Safety is a top priority in the Ford Escape, with Ford Co-Pilot360â„¢ as a standard feature. This comprehensive suite includes:
  • Pre-Collision Assist® with Automatic Emergency Braking
  • Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross-Traffic Alert
  • Pedestrian Detection
  • Forward Collision Warning
  • Dynamic Brake Support
  • Torque Vectoring Control
  • Rear View Camera
  • Autolamp (Automatic On/Off) with Headlamp Courtesy Delay
  • Auto High-Beam Headlamps
  • Available Active Park Assist 2.0

Also standard on all trim levels is Lane-Keeping System, which includes Lane-Keeping Assist, Lane-Keeping Alert, and Driver Alert.

The selectable drive modes (Eco, Sport, Slippery, and Normal) of the Escape allow drivers to tailor their driving experience to various road conditions.

The Chevy Equinox also focuses on safety and driving assistance, offering Chevy Safety Assist as standard. Some of its key features are:
  • Forward Collision Alert
  • Front Pedestrian Braking
  • Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
  • Rear Vision Camera
  • Automatic Emergency Braking
  • Following Distance Indicator
  • Available Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert

While both SUVs emphasize safety, the Ford Escape has a more extensive list of standard features to enhance driver confidence.

Infotainment and Technology

When it comes to infotainment and technology, the Ford Escape impresses with its available Head-Up Display (HUD), 360-Degree Camera, Alexa Built-in and Ford Streaming, and 13.2-inch touchscreen. Additional features include available onboard scales with a smart hitch, Trailer Navigation, and the available 360-degree trailer camera package.

The Ford Escape is packed with advanced infotainment and technology. Standard features starting at the base trim include:
  • SYNC® 4 infotainment system
  • Eight-inch LCD Capacitive Touchscreen
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Autoâ„¢ compatibility
  • FordPass® Connect with 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot
  • Connected Built-in Navigation

These features provide a more connected and enjoyable driving experience.

The Chevy Equinox also offers a range of infotainment and technology options, including an available Wi-Fi hotspot, an eight-inch touchscreen, Teen Driver technology, and customized trailer profiles using the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system or myChevrolet Mobile App. However, it falls short when compared to the extensive list of features in the Ford Escape.

Shop Ford Escape Near Amherst, OH

When comparing the Ford Escape vs Chevy Equinox, both are strong contenders in the compact crossover market. But, overall, the Ford Escape has the edge. With its diverse engine options, including the Plug-In Hybrid and Hybrid engines, a more extensive list of standard safety features, and advanced technology options, the Ford Escape emerges as the superior choice for car buyers in Medina, Vermilion, Oberlin, Sandusky, and Brunswick seeking a versatile and feature-packed compact SUV.

Don't just take our word for it. Visit AutoNation Ford Amherst to experience the difference for yourself. Discover why the newest Ford Escape model is a great choice for on-the-go Lorain County families.

Call and ask about our Ford dealership's exclusive specials, leasing offers, and financing options to get the best deal on your new or used Ford Escape. With the Ford Escape's competitive MSRP and variety of trim levels, there's a model to suit every budget and preference. Don't forget to check out our other options, like our electric vehicles.

Experience the Ford Escape difference for yourself when you visit AutoNation Ford Amherst. Find us just a mile and a half southwest of Dolyk Wood Nature Preserve.

You'll love the exceptional driving experience, comfort, and versatility this compact SUV has to offer. Give us a call to schedule a test drive and get ready to conquer the highways in style.

*Before towing, confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up and loaded properly and that you have any necessary additional equipment. The maximum you can tow depends on base curb weight plus the total weight of any cargo, occupants, and added vehicle equipment.

**Preliminary EPA-estimated figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on speed, driving habits, trip length and driving conditions; actual mileage may be lower. Note for MPGe: All data are provisional and subject to official confirmation. The provisional power consumption figures have been calculated based on the ECE test cycle.