Fuel efficiency vs performance: crosstrek and equinox head-to-head
What To Know
- In terms of fuel efficiency, the Crosstrek shines with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
- The Crosstrek offers a more affordable entry point, but the Equinox provides a higher level of standard equipment and a more spacious interior.
- If you seek a more spacious interior, advanced technology, and a higher level of standard equipment, the Equinox is a solid option.
In the realm of compact SUVs, the Subaru Crosstrek and the Chevrolet Equinox stand out as formidable contenders. Both vehicles boast a combination of versatility, ruggedness, and everyday practicality. But which one emerges victorious in a head-to-head comparison? In this comprehensive guide, we delve into every aspect of the Subaru Crosstrek vs. Equinox debate to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
Under the hood, the Subaru Crosstrek offers a standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. The Equinox, on the other hand, offers a range of engine options, including a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, and a 1.6-liter turbocharged diesel engine.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Crosstrek shines with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. The Equinox offers comparable fuel economy with its 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, achieving 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
Off-Road Capabilities
One of the defining characteristics of the Subaru Crosstrek is its exceptional off-road capabilities. It comes standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which distributes power evenly to all four wheels for optimal traction on various surfaces. Additionally, the Crosstrek features a raised ride height and X-Mode, which enhances its off-road performance further.
While the Equinox also offers an available all-wheel drive system, it lacks the same level of off-road prowess as the Crosstrek. Its lower ride height and lack of dedicated off-road modes make it less suitable for tackling challenging terrain.
Interior and Cargo Space
Inside, both the Crosstrek and Equinox offer spacious and well-equipped cabins. The Crosstrek’s interior is characterized by its rugged yet refined design, with comfortable seats and intuitive controls. It provides 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which can be expanded to 55.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down.
The Equinox offers a more spacious interior with 29.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 63.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. Its cabin is more upscale than the Crosstrek’s, featuring premium materials and advanced technology.
Safety Features
Safety is paramount for both the Crosstrek and Equinox. The Crosstrek has earned a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
The Equinox also boasts a strong safety record, earning a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. It offers a comprehensive array of safety technologies, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane keep assist.
Technology and Connectivity
Both the Crosstrek and Equinox offer a range of technology and connectivity features. The Crosstrek features a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Available upgrades include an 8-inch touchscreen, a navigation system, and a premium audio system.
The Equinox offers a more advanced infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen as standard. It also comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, as well as a Wi-Fi hotspot and wireless charging.
Price and Value
The Subaru Crosstrek has a starting price of $23,645, while the Chevrolet Equinox starts at $25,800. The Crosstrek offers a more affordable entry point, but the Equinox provides a higher level of standard equipment and a more spacious interior.
Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the choice between the Subaru Crosstrek and the Chevrolet Equinox depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize off-road capabilities, fuel efficiency, and a rugged aesthetic, the Crosstrek is an excellent choice. If you seek a more spacious interior, advanced technology, and a higher level of standard equipment, the Equinox is a solid option.
Answers to Your Questions
1. Which vehicle has better off-road capabilities?
The Subaru Crosstrek offers superior off-road capabilities thanks to its standard all-wheel drive system, raised ride height, and X-Mode.
2. Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
The Chevrolet Equinox has a more spacious interior and cargo area than the Subaru Crosstrek.
3. Which vehicle is more fuel-efficient?
The Subaru Crosstrek is more fuel-efficient than the Chevrolet Equinox, with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
4. Which vehicle has more advanced safety features?
Both the Crosstrek and Equinox offer a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, but the Crosstrek has earned a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS.
5. Which vehicle offers a better value for the price?
The Subaru Crosstrek offers a more affordable entry point, while the Chevrolet Equinox provides a higher level of standard equipment and a more spacious interior.