Compact suv showdown: equinox vs. compass – comparing fuel efficiency, performance, and features

The automotive landscape is brimming with compact crossover SUVs, and two prominent contenders in this segment are the Chevrolet Equinox and the Jeep Compass. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of practicality, style, and performance, but which one emerges as the ultimate choice? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison to uncover their strengths and weaknesses.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency

The Chevrolet Equinox boasts a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a six-speed automatic transmission, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience. The Jeep Compass, on the other hand, offers a wider range of engine options: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 180 horsepower, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower, and a 1.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 177 horsepower. All engines are paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Equinox has a slight edge. The front-wheel-drive model earns an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, while the all-wheel-drive version gets 25 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. The Compass, with its 2.4-liter engine, offers 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway for front-wheel drive and 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway for all-wheel drive.

Interior Space and Comfort

Both the Equinox and Compass offer spacious and comfortable interiors. The Equinox provides 39.7 inches of front headroom, 40.9 inches of rear headroom, 40.9 inches of front legroom, and 39.9 inches of rear legroom. The Compass offers slightly less space, with 39.2 inches of front headroom, 38.3 inches of rear headroom, 40.1 inches of front legroom, and 38.3 inches of rear legroom.

In terms of cargo capacity, the Equinox has a slight advantage with 29.9 cubic feet of space behind the second row of seats and 63.9 cubic feet with the second row folded down. The Compass offers 27.2 cubic feet behind the second row and 59.8 cubic feet with the second row folded down.

Technology and Features

The Chevrolet Equinox and Jeep Compass come equipped with a range of advanced technology and features. The Equinox features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a six-speaker audio system, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Compass offers a similar 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a six-speaker audio system, and Bluetooth connectivity.

Both vehicles also offer a variety of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Equinox adds rear cross-traffic alert, while the Compass adds adaptive cruise control.

Off-Road Capabilities

While both the Equinox and Compass are primarily designed for on-road use, the Compass offers slightly better off-road capabilities thanks to its Trailhawk trim. This trim includes a raised suspension, skid plates, and all-terrain tires, giving it the ability to tackle more rugged terrain. The Equinox does not offer a dedicated off-road trim, but it does have an available all-wheel-drive system that provides improved traction in slippery conditions.

Reliability and Safety

The Chevrolet Equinox and Jeep Compass have comparable reliability ratings. J.D. Power gives the Equinox a predicted reliability score of 78 out of 100, while the Compass receives a score of 77 out of 100. Both vehicles have received good safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Price and Value

The Chevrolet Equinox has a starting price of $26,100, while the Jeep Compass starts at $26,895. Both vehicles offer a range of trim levels with varying features and prices. The top-of-the-line Equinox Premier starts at $34,200, while the top-of-the-line Compass Trailhawk starts at $34,690.

Which One Should You Choose?

The choice between the Chevrolet Equinox and Jeep Compass ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, interior space, and technology, the Equinox is a solid choice. If you value off-road capabilities and a more rugged design, the Compass is the better option. Both vehicles offer competitive pricing and a range of features, making them excellent contenders in the compact crossover SUV segment.

Takeaways

The Chevrolet Equinox and Jeep Compass are both compelling options in the compact crossover SUV market. The Equinox offers a spacious interior, good fuel efficiency, and a range of advanced features. The Compass, on the other hand, boasts better off-road capabilities and a more rugged design. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your priorities and lifestyle.

Answers to Your Questions

1. Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
The Jeep Compass offers a more powerful engine option, the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower.

2. Which vehicle has a larger cargo capacity?
The Chevrolet Equinox has a slightly larger cargo capacity, with 29.9 cubic feet behind the second row of seats and 63.9 cubic feet with the second row folded down.

3. Which vehicle has a better fuel economy?
The Chevrolet Equinox has a slightly better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway for the front-wheel-drive model.

4. Which vehicle has a better off-road capability?
The Jeep Compass offers better off-road capabilities thanks to its Trailhawk trim, which includes a raised suspension, skid plates, and all-terrain tires.

5. Which vehicle has a higher starting price?
The Jeep Compass has a slightly higher starting price of $26,895, compared to the Chevrolet Equinox’s starting price of $26,100.