What To Know
- Both the Chevy Equinox and the Ford Explorer are equipped with a wealth of technology features, making them enjoyable and safe to drive.
- The Ford Explorer takes its technology game to the next level with a standard 8-inch touchscreen display, a larger 12-inch display available on higher trims, and a more robust suite of driver-assistance features.
- When considering the overall value proposition, the Equinox offers a more budget-friendly option, while the Explorer provides a more premium and feature-rich experience.
Choosing the perfect SUV can be a daunting task, especially when you’re considering two popular contenders like the Chevy Equinox and the Ford Explorer. Both offer a blend of practicality, comfort, and technology, but each has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. This comprehensive guide will delve into the key differences between the Chevy Equinox vs Explorer, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and preferences.
Size and Space: Room for the Whole Crew?
The first major difference between these SUVs lies in their size. The Chevy Equinox is classified as a compact SUV, offering a comfortable ride for five passengers. Its interior is well-designed, providing ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The cargo area is also generous, accommodating 63.9 cubic feet of luggage with the rear seats folded down.
On the other hand, the Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV, capable of comfortably seating up to seven passengers. This added space comes with a larger footprint, making the Explorer a more commanding presence on the road. Its spacious interior is a key selling point, offering ample room for families or those who frequently travel with a full load. The Explorer’s cargo space is also significantly larger, boasting 87.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
Performance and Handling: A Smooth Ride or a Powerful Engine?
When it comes to performance, the Chevy Equinox offers a smooth and efficient driving experience. Its standard 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, providing adequate power for daily commutes and highway driving. The optional 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine bumps up the power to 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, offering a more spirited performance.
The Ford Explorer is available with a variety of engine options, catering to different driving preferences. The base engine is a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, producing 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, the Explorer offers a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, generating 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. The top-of-the-line option is a hybrid powertrain that combines a 3.3-liter V6 with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 318 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque.
Fuel Efficiency: Saving Money at the Pump
Fuel economy is an important consideration for many SUV buyers. The Chevy Equinox is known for its impressive fuel efficiency. The base engine achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined. While the more powerful 2.0-liter engine returns slightly lower figures, it still delivers respectable fuel economy.
The Ford Explorer’s fuel economy varies depending on the engine choice. The base 2.3-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. The 3.0-liter V6 engine sacrifices some fuel efficiency, returning 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined. The hybrid powertrain offers the best fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined.
Technology and Features: Staying Connected and Safe
Both the Chevy Equinox and the Ford Explorer are equipped with a wealth of technology features, making them enjoyable and safe to drive. The Equinox boasts an intuitive infotainment system with a standard 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and a rearview camera.
The Ford Explorer takes its technology game to the next level with a standard 8-inch touchscreen display, a larger 12-inch display available on higher trims, and a more robust suite of driver-assistance features. These include adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system.
Price and Value: Finding the Right Balance
The Chevy Equinox is generally more affordable than the Ford Explorer. The starting MSRP for the Equinox is around $26,000, while the Explorer starts at around $35,000. This price difference reflects the size and feature differences between the two SUVs.
However, it’s important to note that the price can vary depending on trim level, options, and destination charges. When considering the overall value proposition, the Equinox offers a more budget-friendly option, while the Explorer provides a more premium and feature-rich experience.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right SUV for You
Ultimately, the choice between the Chevy Equinox and the Ford Explorer comes down to your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a compact, fuel-efficient, and affordable SUV, the Equinox is an excellent choice. Its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and impressive technology features make it a practical and enjoyable daily driver.
If you need more space, power, and a more luxurious experience, the Ford Explorer is the better option. Its larger size, powerful engine options, and advanced technology features make it a capable SUV for families or those who frequently travel with a full load.
A Final Word: Beyond the Comparison
While the Chevy Equinox and the Ford Explorer are both excellent SUVs, it’s important to remember that they are not the only options available. Consider other SUVs in the same class, such as the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, or Nissan Rogue. Research and test drive different models to find the one that best suits your lifestyle and budget.
What You Need to Learn
Q: What is the best Chevy Equinox trim level?
A: The Chevy Equinox LT trim level offers a good balance of features and value. It includes a larger 8-inch touchscreen, heated front seats, and a power driver’s seat.
Q: What is the best Ford Explorer trim level?
A: The Ford Explorer XLT trim level is a popular choice, offering a comfortable and well-equipped interior with features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a power liftgate.
Q: Is the Chevy Equinox reliable?
A: The Chevy Equinox has a good reputation for reliability. It consistently ranks high in reliability surveys.
Q: Is the Ford Explorer reliable?
A: The Ford Explorer has a decent reliability rating, but it’s not as consistently high as the Chevy Equinox.
Q: Which SUV has better resale value?
A: The Chevy Equinox generally holds its value better than the Ford Explorer.
