What To Know
- The Toyota Highlander adopts a more traditional and refined design with a bold front grille, sculpted lines, and a commanding presence.
- The Equinox offers a more contemporary and athletic look, while the Highlander exudes a more classic and sophisticated appeal.
- The Equinox provides a well-rounded experience at an affordable price, while the Highlander offers a premium experience with more features and capabilities.
Choosing the right SUV can be a daunting task, especially when considering popular models like the Chevy Equinox and the Toyota Highlander. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of practicality, comfort, and style, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This in-depth comparison will delve into the key features, strengths, and weaknesses of each SUV, helping you make an informed decision for your next ride.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency: A Tale of Two Engines
The Chevy Equinox comes standard with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine generating 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. While this engine provides adequate power for daily driving, it can feel sluggish when fully loaded or attempting to accelerate quickly. The optional 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, offers a much more spirited performance.
The Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, boasts a standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 206 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. While not as powerful as the Equinox’s optional engine, the Highlander’s engine provides smooth and reliable performance with a focus on efficiency. It’s worth noting that the Highlander also offers a hybrid powertrain option, providing even better fuel economy.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Equinox achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined with the standard engine. The optional engine gets 22 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined. The Highlander, with its standard engine, earns an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. The hybrid version boasts an impressive 36 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, and 36 mpg combined.
Interior Space and Comfort: A Roomy Retreat
Both the Chevy Equinox and the Toyota Highlander offer ample interior space for passengers and cargo. The Equinox provides seating for five passengers, with a spacious cabin and comfortable seats. The rear seats can be folded down to expand cargo space, offering a total of 63.9 cubic feet.
The Toyota Highlander, designed for larger families, accommodates up to eight passengers with three rows of seats. The spacious cabin features comfortable seating and ample legroom in all rows. The Highlander offers a generous 84.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down.
Technology and Safety Features: Staying Connected and Safe
Both SUVs come equipped with a range of advanced technology and safety features. The Chevy Equinox features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. It also offers available features like a head-up display, a Bose premium sound system, and a panoramic sunroof.
The Toyota Highlander boasts a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with a user-friendly interface. It also includes features like a wireless charging pad, a JBL premium sound system, and a panoramic sunroof.
In terms of safety, both SUVs offer a comprehensive suite of driver-assist features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Highlander also offers additional features like a driver attention monitor and road sign assist.
Styling and Design: A Matter of Taste
The Chevy Equinox presents a modern and sporty design with sharp lines and a sleek profile. The front grille features a distinctive chrome bar, while the headlights and taillights are slim and angular.
The Toyota Highlander adopts a more traditional and refined design with a bold front grille, sculpted lines, and a commanding presence. The headlights and taillights are more rounded and feature LED technology.
Ultimately, the choice between the Equinox and the Highlander’s styling comes down to personal preference. The Equinox offers a more contemporary and athletic look, while the Highlander exudes a more classic and sophisticated appeal.
Price and Value: Finding the Sweet Spot
The Chevy Equinox starts at a lower price point than the Toyota Highlander. The base Equinox model starts around $27,000, while the base Highlander model starts around $37,000. However, the Highlander’s higher price tag is justified by its larger size, more powerful engine options, and a more luxurious interior.
When considering value, both SUVs offer a compelling package. The Equinox provides a well-rounded experience at an affordable price, while the Highlander offers a premium experience with more features and capabilities.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right SUV for You
The Chevy Equinox and the Toyota Highlander are both excellent SUVs, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The Equinox is a great choice for budget-conscious buyers looking for a stylish and fuel-efficient SUV with ample cargo space. The Highlander, on the other hand, is a superb option for families seeking a spacious, comfortable, and well-equipped SUV with a focus on safety and reliability.
Ultimately, the best SUV for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize affordability and fuel efficiency, the Chevy Equinox is a strong contender. If you value spaciousness, comfort, and advanced features, the Toyota Highlander is the way to go.
Beyond the Comparison: A Look at Other Options
While the Chevy Equinox and Toyota Highlander are popular choices in the mid-size SUV segment, other compelling options exist. The Honda CR-V, Subaru Outback, and Ford Escape are all worthy competitors, offering unique features and benefits. Researching these alternatives can provide valuable insights and help you make a more informed decision.
Final Thoughts: A New Journey Begins
Choosing the right SUV is a significant decision, and the Chevy Equinox and Toyota Highlander offer two excellent options. By considering your priorities, budget, and lifestyle, you can find the perfect SUV to embark on your next adventure. Remember to test drive both vehicles and compare their features side-by-side to make the most informed decision.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which SUV has better fuel efficiency?
A: The Toyota Highlander hybrid offers the best fuel efficiency with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, and 36 mpg combined. The Chevy Equinox with its standard 1.5-liter engine achieves 26 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined.
Q: Which SUV is more spacious?
A: The Toyota Highlander provides more passenger and cargo space with its three-row seating configuration. It offers a maximum cargo capacity of 84.3 cubic feet, while the Chevy Equinox offers a maximum cargo capacity of 63.9 cubic feet.
Q: Which SUV is more affordable?
A: The Chevy Equinox starts at a lower price point than the Toyota Highlander. The base Equinox model starts around $27,000, while the base Highlander model starts around $37,000.
Q: Which SUV is known for its reliability?
A: Both the Chevy Equinox and Toyota Highlander are known for their reliability. However, Toyota consistently ranks high in reliability studies.
Q: Which SUV offers more advanced technology and safety features?
A: Both SUVs offer a comprehensive suite of technology and safety features. However, the Toyota Highlander typically comes with more advanced features, including a larger touchscreen infotainment system, a driver attention monitor, and road sign assist.
