Which japanese suv is right for you? chevrolet equinox vs subaru forester
What To Know
- However, the Chevrolet Equinox has a slight edge in terms of available features and overall comfort.
- Both the Chevrolet Equinox and Subaru Forester have excellent safety ratings and offer a comprehensive suite of safety features.
- The Chevrolet Equinox and Subaru Forester are both excellent compact SUVs that offer a compelling blend of performance, features, and value.
In the realm of compact SUVs, two formidable contenders emerge: the Chevrolet Equinox and the Subaru Forester. Both vehicles boast impressive features, capabilities, and loyal followings. However, which one truly stands out as the superior choice? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Chevrolet Equinox and Subaru Forester, helping you make an informed decision.
Performance and Fuel Economy
Chevrolet Equinox:
- Engine options: 1.5L turbocharged I-4 (170 hp, 203 lb-ft) or 2.0L turbocharged I-4 (252 hp, 260 lb-ft)
- Fuel economy (EPA): 26 mpg city / 31 mpg highway (1.5L), 22 mpg city / 29 mpg highway (2.0L)
Subaru Forester:
- Engine options: 2.5L naturally aspirated I-4 (182 hp, 176 lb-ft) or 2.4L turbocharged I-4 (260 hp, 277 lb-ft)
- Fuel economy (EPA): 26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway (2.5L), 23 mpg city / 29 mpg highway (2.4L)
The Subaru Forester offers slightly better fuel economy, especially with the 2.5L engine. However, the Chevrolet Equinox delivers more power and torque with its 2.0L turbocharged engine.
Interior and Features
Chevrolet Equinox:
- Spacious and comfortable interior
- Standard features include an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay / Android Auto integration, and a six-speaker audio system
- Available features include leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a Bose sound system
Subaru Forester:
- Roomy and versatile interior
- Standard features include a 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay / Android Auto integration, and a four-speaker audio system
- Available features include leather seats, a larger 8-inch touchscreen, and a Harman Kardon sound system
Both vehicles offer ample interior space and user-friendly infotainment systems. However, the Chevrolet Equinox has a slight edge in terms of available features and overall comfort.
Off-Road Capabilities
Chevrolet Equinox:
- Available all-wheel drive system with a 6-speed automatic transmission
- Standard ground clearance of 7.6 inches
- Optional trailering package with a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs
Subaru Forester:
- Standard all-wheel drive system with a continuously variable transmission (CVT)
- Standard ground clearance of 8.7 inches
- Optional X-Mode off-road system with hill descent control
- Maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs
The Subaru Forester has a clear advantage in terms of off-road capabilities. Its standard all-wheel drive system, higher ground clearance, and X-Mode system make it a more capable choice for adventures off the beaten path.
Safety and Reliability
Chevrolet Equinox:
- Received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA
- Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and forward collision alert
- Optional features include adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert
Subaru Forester:
- Received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA
- Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control
- Optional features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system
Both the Chevrolet Equinox and Subaru Forester have excellent safety ratings and offer a comprehensive suite of safety features. However, the Subaru Forester has a slight edge due to its standard adaptive cruise control and surround-view camera system.
Price and Value
Chevrolet Equinox:
- Starting price: $25,800
- Well-equipped LT trim: $29,000
- Top-of-the-line Premier trim: $34,500
Subaru Forester:
- Starting price: $26,395
- Well-equipped Premium trim: $30,895
- Top-of-the-line Touring trim: $36,495
The Chevrolet Equinox and Subaru Forester are priced similarly. However, the Chevrolet Equinox offers a lower starting price and a more affordable well-equipped trim.
Conclusion
The Chevrolet Equinox and Subaru Forester are both excellent compact SUVs that offer a compelling blend of performance, features, and value. The Chevrolet Equinox excels in terms of power, comfort, and affordability. The Subaru Forester, on the other hand, stands out with its superior off-road capabilities, fuel economy, and safety features.
Ultimately, the best choice between the Chevrolet Equinox and Subaru Forester depends on your individual priorities and needs. If you value power, comfort, and affordability, the Chevrolet Equinox is a solid choice. If you prioritize off-road capabilities, fuel economy, and safety, the Subaru Forester is the clear winner.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Chevrolet Equinox with the 2.0L turbocharged engine.
Q: Which vehicle has a better fuel economy?
A: The Subaru Forester with the 2.5L engine.
Q: Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
A: Both vehicles offer ample interior space, with the Chevrolet Equinox having a slight edge in comfort.
Q: Which vehicle has better off-road capabilities?
A: The Subaru Forester with its standard all-wheel drive system, higher ground clearance, and X-Mode off-road system.
Q: Which vehicle has a higher safety rating?
A: Both vehicles have excellent safety ratings, with the Subaru Forester having a slight edge due to its standard adaptive cruise control and surround-view camera system.
