Suv showdown: chevrolet equinox vs volkswagen atlas – which reigns supreme?
What To Know
- The Equinox returns an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway with the 1.
- The Atlas, on the other hand, achieves 21 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway with the 2.
- The Atlas also earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a “Good” rating in most IIHS crash tests, with the exception of a “Marginal” rating for its headlights.
When it comes to choosing a midsize SUV, the Chevrolet Equinox and Volkswagen Atlas stand out as two formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of practicality, performance, and features. However, understanding their key differences is crucial for making an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of these two SUVs, examining their strengths, weaknesses, and everything in between.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
The Equinox comes equipped with a standard 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is available, producing 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
In contrast, the Atlas boasts a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. A more potent 3.6-liter V6 engine is also offered, delivering 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Equinox and Atlas exhibit comparable ratings. The Equinox returns an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway with the 1.5-liter engine, while the 2.0-liter engine yields 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The Atlas, on the other hand, achieves 21 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway with the 2.0-liter engine, while the V6 engine delivers 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Equinox offers a spacious and well-appointed cabin with comfortable seating for up to five passengers. The front seats provide ample headroom and legroom, while the rear seats offer decent legroom and can accommodate adults comfortably. The interior features soft-touch materials and a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen display.
The Atlas, however, takes interior space to another level. It can accommodate up to seven passengers thanks to its third row of seating. The first two rows offer generous headroom and legroom, while the third row is best suited for children or occasional use. The interior is well-crafted with high-quality materials and a sleek dashboard design. The infotainment system is intuitive and features a 6.5-inch touchscreen display as standard, with an optional 8-inch display available.
Cargo Capacity
When it comes to cargo capacity, both the Equinox and Atlas offer ample space for your belongings. The Equinox provides 29.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row of seats and 63.9 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Atlas, on the other hand, boasts an impressive 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row of seats, 55.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 96.8 cubic feet with all seats folded down.
Safety Features
Both the Equinox and Atlas have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Equinox received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a “Good” rating in all crash tests conducted by IIHS. The Atlas also earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a “Good” rating in most IIHS crash tests, with the exception of a “Marginal” rating for its headlights.
In terms of standard safety features, the Equinox comes equipped with a rearview camera, forward collision alert, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Atlas offers a similar suite of standard safety features, including a rearview camera, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Technology and Infotainment
The Equinox and Atlas both offer a range of technology and infotainment features to enhance your driving experience. The Equinox features a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a six-speaker audio system. The Atlas comes standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a six-speaker audio system. However, it offers an optional 8-inch touchscreen display and a premium Fender audio system with 12 speakers.
In addition, the Atlas offers a variety of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and park assist. These features are available as part of the optional IQ.DRIVE package.
Price and Value
The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox has a starting price of $26,600 for the base LS trim level. The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas starts at $33,545 for the base S trim level. When comparing similarly equipped models, the Equinox offers a more affordable option than the Atlas. However, the Atlas provides more interior space, a more powerful V6 engine option, and a wider range of advanced safety features.
Final Note: The Verdict
The Chevrolet Equinox and Volkswagen Atlas are both excellent midsize SUVs with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Equinox offers a compelling blend of affordability, fuel efficiency, and a spacious interior. The Atlas, on the other hand, excels in terms of interior space, performance, and advanced safety features. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you prioritize affordability and fuel efficiency, the Equinox is an excellent choice. If you value interior space, performance, and advanced safety features, the Atlas is the better option.
Popular Questions
Q: Which SUV has better fuel economy, the Equinox or the Atlas?
A: The Chevrolet Equinox has slightly better fuel economy than the Volkswagen Atlas, especially with the 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
Q: Which SUV has more interior space, the Equinox or the Atlas?
A: The Volkswagen Atlas offers significantly more interior space than the Chevrolet Equinox, especially with the optional third row of seating.
Q: Which SUV has more advanced safety features, the Equinox or the Atlas?
A: The Volkswagen Atlas offers a wider range of advanced safety features than the Chevrolet Equinox, including adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and park assist.
Q: Which SUV is more affordable, the Equinox or the Atlas?
A: The Chevrolet Equinox is more affordable than the Volkswagen Atlas, especially when comparing similarly equipped models.
Q: Which SUV has a better infotainment system, the Equinox or the Atlas?
A: The Volkswagen Atlas offers a more sophisticated infotainment system with a larger touchscreen display and a premium audio system option.