When you’ve got your eye on the 2022 Chevy Equinox and Ford Escape, things can get complicated. These small crossovers have a lot in common, from their starting MSRPs to their sporty capabilities to their comfy cabins. Our comparison guide is here to help you get to know each model. By the end, choosing between them will be easy.
On-Road Comfort: 2022 Chevy Equinox
Inside, Chevy’s small crossover is very passenger-friendly. Both rows of seating are nicely padded and contoured for long-term comfort. And the Equinox not only offers a roomy, comfortable cabin, but its suspension is also tuned for a very smooth ride. Higher trim levels even get luxurious, with options like leather upholstery and ambient interior lighting.
For a small crossover, the 2022 Ford Escape also gives you lots of interior space. We’re also fans of its seating comfort and upscale options, which are very similar to that of the Equinox. However, the Escape isn’t quite as smooth. The automatic transmission can cause a little turbulence, especially when it’s upshifting.
High-Tech Cruising: 2022 Chevy Equinox
The Equinox comes standard with a longer list of infotainment features, which means you’ll ultimately pay less to enjoy smartphone-friendly gear. For example, all Equinox trim models include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 2022 Equinox also comes standard with more safety aids than before, including lane-keeping assist and forward collision warning.
The Escape has some of the same standard equipment as the Equinox, such as a Wi-Fi modem and a six-speaker sound system. However, if you want modern infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, you have to upgrade to the mid-grade model. On the other hand, the Escape also comes standard with helpful safety aids, including blind-spot monitoring and forward collision mitigation.
Powertrain Options: 2022 Ford Escape
In the small crossover segment, the Escape is unique in offering multiple engine options:
- Turbo 1.5L three-cylinder engine (181 horsepower, 190 lb-ft of torque)
- 2.5L hybrid powertrain (200 total hp)
- Turbo 2.0L four-cylinder engine (250 hp, 280 lb-ft)
The speedy, 250-horsepower four-cylinder engine is only available for the mid-grade SEL and top-trim Titanium models, but it’s worth the upgrade for shoppers who want to emphasize performance. If fuel economy is more of a priority, the Escape’s hybrid powertrain earns up to 41 mpg combined (44 city/37 highway).
Like most models in this segment, the Equinox provides only one engine, a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine (170 hp, 203 lb-ft). It does an excellent job of combining an athletic performance with everyday efficiency, earning up to 28 mpg combined (26/31 mpg).
Price Tag: It’s (Mostly) a Tie!
If you’re shopping these small SUVs’ entry-level models, you won’t find much of a price difference between them. The 2022 Chevy Equinox starts at $25,800, and the 2022 Ford Escape starts at $25,555.
However, if you’re looking for more of a fully loaded model, the Equinox may give you the better deal. The top-trim Equinox starts at $32,600. Meanwhile, the most expensive Escape starts at $35,890.
Your New Crossover SUV
In the end, the 2022 Chevy Equinox represents the best option. This small crossover SUV comes at a great rate, balances power with efficiency, and comes standard with a longer list of tech features. And, best of all, it gives you the most comfortable drive.