Safety vs. style: equinox vs. outlander – discover the perfect balance

In the bustling realm of mid-size SUVs, the Chevrolet Equinox and Mitsubishi Outlander stand as formidable contenders, each vying for the hearts and minds of family-oriented drivers. To unravel the intricacies of their rivalry, we embark on a comprehensive comparison, scrutinizing their key features, performance capabilities, and family-friendly amenities.

Dimensions and Space

The Equinox boasts a marginally larger footprint than the Outlander, offering a roomier cabin with more legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The Equinox’s cargo capacity also triumphs, providing a generous 29.9 cubic feet with the rear seats up and an impressive 63.9 cubic feet when folded down. In contrast, the Outlander’s cargo capacity stands at a respectable 33.5 cubic feet and 68.4 cubic feet, respectively.

Performance and Fuel Economy

Under the hood, the Equinox and Outlander both offer a range of engine options. However, the Equinox’s 1.5-liter turbocharged engine delivers a more substantial 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, outperforming the Outlander’s 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine’s 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque.

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Outlander takes the lead with an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. The Equinox, on the other hand, achieves 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway with its 1.5-liter engine.

Safety Features

Both the Equinox and Outlander have earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety features include airbags, anti-lock brakes, stability control, and traction control.

However, the Equinox offers a more comprehensive suite of advanced safety features as standard, including lane departure warning, forward collision alert, and automatic emergency braking.

Technology and Infotainment

Inside the cabin, the Equinox and Outlander feature user-friendly infotainment systems. The Equinox’s 7- or 8-inch touchscreen display boasts Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. The Outlander’s 8-inch touchscreen also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto but lacks a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot.

Family-Friendly Amenities

Both SUVs cater to the needs of families with a range of family-friendly amenities. The Equinox offers rear-seat entertainment with a DVD player, while the Outlander features a panoramic sunroof and a third row of seats for increased passenger capacity.

Price and Value

The Equinox and Outlander are priced similarly, with the Equinox starting at $25,800 and the Outlander starting at $25,795. However, the Equinox offers more standard features and a more powerful engine, making it the better value proposition overall.

Verdict: The Victor Emerges

After meticulously comparing the Chevrolet Equinox and Mitsubishi Outlander, the Equinox emerges as the superior choice for families seeking a spacious, powerful, and feature-rich SUV. Its ample cabin space, impressive performance, comprehensive safety suite, and family-friendly amenities make it an ideal companion for adventures near and far.

FAQ

1. Which SUV has a larger cargo capacity?
The Outlander has a slightly larger cargo capacity than the Equinox.

2. Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?
The Outlander is more fuel-efficient than the Equinox.

3. Which SUV offers more standard safety features?
The Equinox offers more standard safety features than the Outlander.

4. Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
The Equinox has a more powerful engine than the Outlander.

5. Which SUV is the better value proposition?
The Equinox is the better value proposition overall, offering more features and a more powerful engine for a similar price.