Chevrolet Equinox vs. Ford Escape

Both models standardly equip a 1.5L turbocharged engine that puts out at least 175 horsepower. That’s enough get-up-and-go for your daily driver to accelerate and easily merge, pass, and cruise while also helping make the most of what’s in its tank. Plus, each one comes standard with front-wheel drive (all-wheel drive is available in both) that helps conserve fuel.

Speaking of that, the Chevrolet Equinox and the Ford Escape are both good stewards of their fuel resources. Assisting in these efforts are their respective standard Automatic Stop/Start features. When you bring your vehicle to a complete stop and engage the brake, the engine automatically shuts off. When you move your foot from the brake to the accelerator, the engine starts up again.

When it comes to acceleration, torque also plays a role, enabling your vehicle to move from a complete stop and ascend steep inclines. The Escape’s engine offers 199 lb-ft of torque, falling a bit short of the 203 lb-ft of torque with the Equinox.

Torque also helps make towing easier, so with a 1,500-pound towing capacity in the Equinox when properly equipped, you’ll be able to hitch up:

• A motorcycle
• Jet ski or snowmobile
• A couple canoes, rowboat, or 20-foot aluminum boat
• Lightweight utility trailer
• Small pop-up camping trailer

Your weekend getaway just got a lot more fun!

The 60/40 split fold-flat rear seats in both models help customize each model’s available space and maximize it to fit your specific needs. You can fold them down individually to make more room for whatever gear or equipment you take along with you—or anything you pick up along the way: a week’s worth of groceries, perhaps?

Having enough room for everyone is a given. Once your crew is aboard, how do you ensure they’re all comfortable and cozy, no matter the season, the climate, or where they’re seated? By choosing the Chevrolet Equinox. While both SUVs have available heated front seats, only the Equinox also offers available ventilated front seats and heated second-row outboard seats.

To access the cargo hold when your hands are full of groceries, luggage, or moving boxes, the available hands-free AutoSense power liftgate in either model figuratively lends a “hand.” A simple wave of your foot beneath the rear bumper will trigger the liftgate to open.

Once you’ve reached your destination, the Equinox ensures nothing and nobody gets left behind. Under certain conditions, its standard Rear Seat Reminder will offer an audible and visual warning to check the back row. This vigilant guardian is especially helpful when you have small children or furry family members who can’t speak up for themselves. Unfortunately, the Escape doesn’t offer this crucial feature.

In a world that runs on playlists, podcasts, and perfectly timed directions, staying connected on the road isn’t optional—it’s essential. Luckily, both the Chevy Equinox and the Ford Escape come prepared. These two crossovers pack in the tech you rely on for everyday ease, with infotainment features that keep your drive just as connected as your living room:

• Bluetooth®
• Wireless Apple Carplay® and Android Auto™
• Wi-Fi hotspot
• 6 speakers

Craving a bit more kick from your speakers? Both models offer premium audio upgrades—perfect for belting out your favorite chorus or diving into that new true crime episode in surround sound. Let the car-aoke begin!

Still, the most important technology is related to helping keep you and your passengers safe. Chevrolet and Ford take your security as seriously as you do. As such, both SUVs are fully loaded with a variety of driver-assistance systems, such as brand-specific versions of:

• HD Rear Vision Camera
• Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
• Forward Collision Alert
• Automatic Emergency Braking
• Front Pedestrian Braking

The Chevrolet Equinox adds an extra layer of reassurance with standard Intersection Automatic Emergency Braking—a feature designed to detect oncoming traffic when turning left and help avoid potential collisions. While this system is only optional on the Ford Explorer, it comes built into every Equinox, giving you one less thing to think about when you hit the road.