Fuel efficiency face-off: toyota rav4 vs. chevrolet equinox

In the fiercely competitive realm of compact SUVs, the Toyota RAV4 and Chevrolet Equinox stand out as two of the most popular choices. Both vehicles boast impressive features, ample space, and reliable performance. However, when it comes to choosing the best option for your needs, it’s essential to delve into a detailed comparison. This blog post will pit the Toyota RAV4 against the Chevrolet Equinox, examining their key specifications, performance, features, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.

Performance and Fuel Economy

The Toyota RAV4 offers a range of engine options, including a 2.5-liter inline-four and a 2.5-liter inline-four hybrid. The base engine produces 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, while the hybrid system delivers a combined output of 219 horsepower. The Chevrolet Equinox, on the other hand, comes with a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four or a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four. The base engine generates 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, while the larger engine produces 252 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque.

In terms of fuel economy, the Toyota RAV4 hybrid shines with an EPA-estimated 41 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. The RAV4 with the gasoline engine gets 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The Chevrolet Equinox with the 1.5-liter engine achieves 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, while the Equinox with the 2.0-liter engine gets 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

Interior and Cargo Space

Both the Toyota RAV4 and Chevrolet Equinox offer spacious and well-appointed interiors. The RAV4 has a seating capacity of five and provides 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Equinox also seats five and offers 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, increasing to 63.9 cubic feet with the seats folded.

In terms of features, the RAV4 comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a rearview camera. The Equinox is equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a rearview camera as well. Both SUVs offer a range of optional features, such as navigation, a sunroof, and a premium audio system.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for both Toyota and Chevrolet. The Toyota RAV4 comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. The Chevrolet Equinox is equipped with Chevrolet Safety Assist, which includes features such as forward collision alert, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection.

Both the RAV4 and Equinox have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The RAV4 received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. The Equinox received a four-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.

Off-Road Capabilities

If you’re looking for an SUV that can handle off-road adventures, the Toyota RAV4 offers more options than the Chevrolet Equinox. The RAV4 is available with an Adventure trim level that includes features such as all-wheel drive, a locking rear differential, and hill descent control. The Equinox does not offer any specific off-road trims or packages.

Pricing and Value

The Toyota RAV4 has a starting price of $27,975 for the base LE trim level. The Chevrolet Equinox has a starting price of $26,995 for the base L trim level. Both SUVs offer a range of trim levels and options, with the top-of-the-line RAV4 Limited starting at $38,035 and the top-of-the-line Equinox Premier starting at $37,695.

When it comes to value, the Toyota RAV4 offers a better overall package for the price. The RAV4 has a more powerful base engine, better fuel economy, more cargo space, and a higher safety rating than the Equinox.

Which SUV is Right for You?

The choice between the Toyota RAV4 and Chevrolet Equinox ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, interior space, and safety, the Toyota RAV4 is the better option. If you’re looking for a more powerful engine, a lower starting price, or a more luxurious interior, the Chevrolet Equinox may be a better fit.

The Bottom Line: A Balanced Decision

Both the Toyota RAV4 and Chevrolet Equinox are excellent compact SUVs that offer a compelling combination of features, performance, and value. The RAV4 stands out with its superior fuel economy, cargo space, and safety features, while the Equinox offers a more powerful base engine, a lower starting price, and a more luxurious interior. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which SUV has a better safety rating, the RAV4 or Equinox?
A: The Toyota RAV4 received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick++ by the IIHS. The Chevrolet Equinox received a four-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.

Q: Which SUV has more cargo space, the RAV4 or Equinox?
A: The Toyota RAV4 has more cargo space than the Chevrolet Equinox. The RAV4 offers 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Equinox offers 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, increasing to 63.9 cubic feet with the seats folded.

Q: Which SUV is more fuel-efficient, the RAV4 or Equinox?
A: The Toyota RAV4 is more fuel-efficient than the Chevrolet Equinox. The RAV4 with the hybrid engine gets an EPA-estimated 41 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. The Equinox with the 1.5-liter engine gets 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.