Rav4 or equinox: uncovering the best value for your suv needs
What To Know
- When it comes to value, the RAV4 offers a more comprehensive package of features and capabilities for a slightly higher price.
- It offers a more powerful and efficient engine, a more spacious and versatile interior, and a more comprehensive suite of technology and safety features.
- While the Equinox is a capable and affordable option, the RAV4 ultimately provides a better overall value and a more well-rounded driving experience.
The compact SUV segment is fiercely competitive, with automakers vying to offer the best combination of features, performance, and value. Two of the most popular contenders in this class are the Toyota RAV4 and the Chevrolet Equinox. Both vehicles have earned a reputation for reliability, versatility, and affordability, but which one ultimately comes out on top? In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key aspects of these two SUVs to determine which one deserves the crown.
Performance and Fuel Economy
Under the hood, the RAV4 and Equinox offer a range of engine options. The RAV4 is available with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. It also offers a 2.5-liter hybrid engine that combines the four-cylinder with an electric motor to deliver 219 horsepower. The Equinox, on the other hand, comes standard with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. A more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is available as an option, producing 252 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque.
In terms of fuel economy, the RAV4 hybrid takes the lead with an impressive 41 mpg combined. The RAV4 with the gas engine gets 30 mpg combined, while the Equinox with the 1.5-liter engine delivers 28 mpg combined and the 2.0-liter engine gets 26 mpg combined.
Interior and Cargo Space
Inside, both the RAV4 and Equinox offer spacious and well-appointed cabins. The RAV4 features a modern and user-friendly dashboard with a large touchscreen infotainment system. The Equinox, on the other hand, boasts a more traditional design with a smaller touchscreen. Both vehicles offer comfortable seating for five passengers, and the Equinox provides slightly more legroom in the second row.
When it comes to cargo space, the RAV4 offers 37.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Equinox offers slightly less cargo space, with 29.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 63.9 cubic feet with the seats folded down.
Technology and Safety Features
The RAV4 and Equinox come equipped with a suite of advanced technology and safety features. The RAV4 offers a standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It also includes a Wi-Fi hotspot and a host of driver-assist features, such as lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Equinox comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It also offers a variety of driver-assist features, including forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring.
In terms of safety, both the RAV4 and Equinox have received top ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Off-Road Capabilities
While both the RAV4 and Equinox are primarily designed for on-road driving, they both offer some off-road capabilities. The RAV4 comes standard with front-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive is available as an option. The RAV4 also features a variety of terrain-specific driving modes, such as mud and snow mode. The Equinox comes standard with front-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive is available as an option. It also offers a hill descent control system.
Price and Value
The RAV4 has a starting price of $27,975, while the Equinox has a starting price of $26,600. Both vehicles offer a wide range of trim levels and options, so the final price will vary depending on the specific configuration you choose.
When it comes to value, the RAV4 offers a more comprehensive package of features and capabilities for a slightly higher price. The Equinox, on the other hand, offers a more affordable entry point and a solid set of features.
Key Points: The Verdict
After a thorough comparison, the Toyota RAV4 emerges as the winner in this head-to-head matchup. It offers a more powerful and efficient engine, a more spacious and versatile interior, and a more comprehensive suite of technology and safety features. While the Equinox is a capable and affordable option, the RAV4 ultimately provides a better overall value and a more well-rounded driving experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which SUV has better fuel economy?
A: The Toyota RAV4 hybrid has the best fuel economy, with 41 mpg combined.
Q: Which SUV has more cargo space?
A: The Toyota RAV4 has more cargo space, with 37.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded down.
Q: Which SUV has more standard safety features?
A: The Toyota RAV4 and Chevrolet Equinox both offer a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
Q: Which SUV is better for off-roading?
A: The Toyota RAV4 has slightly better off-road capabilities, thanks to its standard front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive with terrain-specific driving modes.
Q: Which SUV is more affordable?
A: The Chevrolet Equinox has a slightly lower starting price than the Toyota RAV4.