What To Know
- When it comes to choosing a versatile and reliable midsize SUV, two of the most popular options on the market are the Subaru Forester and the Chevrolet Equinox.
- The Equinox, on the other hand, is only available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive as an option, and it has a ground clearance of 8.
- The Subaru Forester has slightly better fuel efficiency than the Equinox, with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway compared to 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway for the Equinox with the 1.
When it comes to choosing a versatile and reliable midsize SUV, two of the most popular options on the market are the Subaru Forester and the Chevrolet Equinox. Both vehicles offer a range of features and capabilities, but they have distinct strengths and weaknesses. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Subaru Forester and the Equinox, helping you make an informed decision about which vehicle is right for you.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
The Subaru Forester comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. The Equinox, on the other hand, offers a choice of two engines: a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, or a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Subaru Forester has a slight edge over the Equinox. The base Forester with the 2.5-liter engine gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, while the Equinox with the 1.5-liter engine gets 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The Equinox with the 2.0-liter engine has a slightly lower fuel economy rating, with 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
Handling and Off-Road Capabilities
Both the Subaru Forester and the Equinox offer a comfortable and responsive driving experience. However, the Forester has a slight advantage in terms of handling, thanks to its lower center of gravity and more precise steering. The Equinox, on the other hand, offers a smoother ride and is more comfortable on long road trips.
When it comes to off-road capabilities, the Subaru Forester is the clear winner. It comes standard with all-wheel drive and has a ground clearance of 8.7 inches. The Equinox, on the other hand, is only available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive as an option, and it has a ground clearance of 8.3 inches.
Interior and Cargo Space
The Subaru Forester and the Equinox offer spacious and well-appointed interiors. The Forester has a slightly larger interior than the Equinox, with more headroom and legroom in both the front and rear seats. The Equinox, however, has a larger cargo area, with 29.9 cubic feet of space behind the second row of seats compared to 28.1 cubic feet in the Forester.
Safety Features
Both the Subaru Forester and the Equinox come standard with a range of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and traction control. The Forester, however, offers more advanced safety features as standard, such as lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. The Equinox requires these features to be added as options.
Price and Value
The Subaru Forester has a slightly higher starting price than the Equinox, but it also comes with more standard features. The base Forester starts at $26,395, while the base Equinox starts at $25,800. When you factor in the additional features and capabilities of the Forester, it offers better value for the money.
Summary: Making the Right Choice
Ultimately, the best choice between the Subaru Forester and the Equinox depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize off-road capabilities, safety, and value, the Subaru Forester is the better choice. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, a smoother ride, and a larger cargo area, the Equinox may be a better fit. Whichever vehicle you choose, you can be assured that you’re getting a reliable and versatile SUV that will meet your needs for years to come.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which vehicle has better fuel efficiency?
A: The Subaru Forester has slightly better fuel efficiency than the Equinox, with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway compared to 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway for the Equinox with the 1.5-liter engine.
Q: Which vehicle has better off-road capabilities?
A: The Subaru Forester has better off-road capabilities than the Equinox, thanks to its standard all-wheel drive and higher ground clearance.
Q: Which vehicle has a larger cargo area?
A: The Equinox has a larger cargo area than the Forester, with 29.9 cubic feet of space behind the second row of seats compared to 28.1 cubic feet in the Forester.
Q: Which vehicle has a better safety rating?
A: The Subaru Forester has a better safety rating than the Equinox, with a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) compared to a four-star overall safety rating for the Equinox.
Q: Which vehicle is more affordable?
A: The Equinox has a slightly lower starting price than the Forester, but the Forester offers more standard features and a better value for the money.