In this in-depth comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Chevrolet Equinox and Ford Edge, covering design and features, performance and handling, safety and security, fuel economy, and pricing.
Design and Features
In the world of compact SUVs, looks matter. After all, who doesn’t want a vehicle that turns heads on the road? In this section, we’ll delve into the design and features of the Chevrolet Equinox and Ford Edge, two popular models in this segment.
Exterior Dimensions and Curb Weight
When it comes to exterior dimensions, both vehicles are closely matched. The Chevrolet Equinox measures 183.1 inches in length, 72.6 inches in width, and 65.4 inches in height, with a curb weight ranging from 3,274 to 3,658 pounds, depending on the trim level. The Ford Edge, on the other hand, measures 188.8 inches in length, 75.9 inches in width, and 68.6 inches in height, with a curb weight of 3,912 to 4,132 pounds. While the Edge is slightly longer and wider, the Equinox is more compact and agile, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
Interior Space and Comfort
Now, let’s talk about interior space and comfort. The Chevrolet Equinox boasts a passenger volume of 103.5 cubic feet, with 39.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. The Ford Edge offers a slightly larger passenger volume of 113.9 cubic feet, but its cargo space is slightly smaller, at 39.2 cubic feet. However, both vehicles offer ample space for passengers and cargo, making them ideal for road trips or daily commutes. In terms of comfort, the Equinox features premium cloth or leather-trimmed seats, depending on the trim level, while the Edge offers luxurious cloth or leather-trimmed seats with available heated and cooled functionality.
Infotainment and Technology Features
When it comes to infotainment and technology features, both vehicles are well-equipped. The Chevrolet Equinox features an 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a Premium Audio system with 8 speakers. The Ford Edge offers a similar 8-inch touchscreen display with SYNC 3 technology, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system. Both vehicles also feature advanced safety features like forward collision alert, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring, making them safe and enjoyable to drive.
Performance and Handling
When it comes to getting from point A to point B, the Chevrolet Equinox and Ford Edge offer distinct approaches to performance and handling. But which one is right for you?
Engine Options and Horsepower
The Chevrolet Equinox boasts a range of engine options to cater to different driving styles. The base model comes equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, producing 170 horsepower and 203 lb.-ft. of torque. For those seeking more power, the available 2.0-liter turbocharged engine ups the ante to 252 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque. Meanwhile, the Ford Edge offers two engines: a 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, producing 250 horsepower and 280 lb.-ft. of torque, and a more potent 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine, churning out 335 horsepower and 380 lb.-ft. of torque in the Edge ST trim. Which engine option best suits your driving habits?
Transmission and Drive Mode Options
Both vehicles feature advanced transmissions designed to optimize performance and efficiency. The Equinox comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the Edge boasts an 8-speed automatic transmission. However, the Edge takes it a step further with its available 7-speed adaptive transmission, offering a more dynamic driving experience. When it comes to drive mode options, the Equinox offers a more conventional setup, with modes like Tour, Sport, and Snow/Ice. In contrast, the Edge features more specialized modes, such as Evolve, Slippery, and Deep Snow/Sand, allowing for greater control in various driving conditions.
Suspension and Steering Systems
A smooth ride is just as important as raw power, and both vehicles deliver on this front. The Equinox features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a four-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and responsive handling. The Edge, on the other hand, boasts a MacPherson strut front suspension and a control-blade independent rear suspension, offering a more agile and stable driving experience. When it comes to steering, the Equinox features an electronic power steering system, while the Edge offers an electric power-assisted steering system, both designed to provide precise control and effortless maneuverability.
Safety and Security
When it comes to safety, the Chevrolet Equinox and Ford Edge are both designed to provide a secure and protected driving experience. But how do they stack up against each other?
Crash Test Ratings and Safety Features
Both vehicles have impressive crash test ratings, with the Equinox earning a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Edge receiving a 5-star overall safety rating as well. The Equinox also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), while the Edge received a Top Safety Pick rating. But what sets them apart?
The Equinox boasts a comprehensive suite of safety features, including a forward collision alert, lane departure warning, and lane keep assist. The Edge, on the other hand, offers a more advanced feature set, including a blind spot information system with trailer coverage, lane centering, and evasive steering assist. But what about the advanced safety features that can provide an extra layer of protection?
Driver Assistance Technologies
The Equinox offers an optional Driver Confidence Package, which includes advanced features like adaptive cruise control, lane change alert with side blind zone alert, and rear cross traffic alert. The Edge, on the other hand, offers a more comprehensive Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of technologies, which includes features like adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane centering, and evasive steering assist. But what about parking and blind spot assistance?
Parking and Blind Spot Assistance
Both vehicles offer advanced parking features, with the Equinox providing a rear vision camera and available rear park assist, while the Edge offers a rearview camera and available active park assist. When it comes to blind spot assistance, the Equinox offers a lane change alert with side blind zone alert, while the Edge provides a blind spot information system with trailer coverage. But how do these features work together to provide a safer driving experience?
Fuel Economy and Maintenance
When it comes to fuel economy and maintenance, the Chevrolet Equinox and Ford Edge are designed to provide a hassle-free ownership experience. But how do they stack up against each other?
MPG Estimates and Fuel Capacity
The Chevrolet Equinox comes with a range of engine options, each with its own fuel economy estimates. The base 1.5L turbocharged engine gets an estimated 28 MPG in the city, 31 MPG on the highway, and 29 MPG combined. The more powerful 2.0L turbocharged engine gets an estimated 22 MPG in the city, 29 MPG on the highway, and 25 MPG combined. As for fuel capacity, the Equinox has a 15.6-gallon tank.
The Ford Edge, on the other hand, has a slightly larger fuel tank at 18.3 gallons. Its base 2.0L EcoBoost engine gets an estimated 22 MPG in the city, 29 MPG on the highway, and 25 MPG combined. The more powerful 2.7L EcoBoost engine gets an estimated 19 MPG in the city, 26 MPG on the highway, and 22 MPG combined.
While the Equinox seems to have a slight edge in terms of fuel economy, the Edge’s larger fuel tank means it can travel farther on a single tank. But how do these estimates translate to real-world driving? The answer lies in understanding your own driving habits and needs. Do you have a long commute or like to take road trips? If so, the Edge’s larger tank might be the better choice. But if you’re looking to save on gas costs, the Equinox might be the way to go.
Maintenance Costs and Schedules
Regular maintenance is crucial to extending the life of your vehicle and preventing costly repairs down the line. Both the Equinox and Edge have similar maintenance schedules, with recommended oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on driving conditions. However, the Edge has a slightly longer interval for spark plug replacement, with a recommended replacement every 100,000 miles, compared to the Equinox’s 75,000 miles.
In terms of maintenance costs, the Equinox and Edge are relatively evenly matched. According to data from Kelley Blue Book, the average annual maintenance cost for the Equinox is around $341, while the Edge comes in at around $344. However, it’s worth noting that these estimates can vary depending on a range of factors, including driving conditions, usage, and location.
Warranty and Reliability Ratings
When it comes to warranty and reliability, both Chevrolet and Ford offer comprehensive coverage for their vehicles. The Equinox comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and 5 years or 60,000 miles of roadside assistance. The Edge, on the other hand, has a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and 5 years or 60,000 miles of roadside assistance.
In terms of reliability ratings, both vehicles have average to above-average ratings from sources like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. However, the Edge has a slight edge (pun intended) in terms of overall reliability, with a 4.5-out-of-5 rating from J.D. Power, compared to the Equinox’s 4.1-out-of-5 rating. But what does this mean for you, the buyer? In short, it means that both vehicles are reliable choices, but the Edge might require slightly fewer repairs over time.
Pricing and Trim Levels
When it comes to choosing between the Chevrolet Equinox and the Ford Edge, one of the most important considerations is the price tag. Both models offer a range of trim levels, each with its own set of features and price points. So, which one offers the best value for your hard-earned cash?
Base Model Features and Pricing
The base model of the Chevrolet Equinox, the L trim, starts at around $23,000. For that price, you’ll get a decent set of standard features, including a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a 7-inch touchscreen display. However, if you’re looking for more premium features, you may want to consider upgrading to a higher trim level.
The Ford Edge, on the other hand, starts at around $25,000 for the base SE trim. While it’s a bit pricier than the Equinox, it comes with a more powerful 2.0-liter engine and a more comprehensive set of standard safety features, including forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking.
Mid-Level Trim Features and Pricing
If you’re looking for a bit more luxury without breaking the bank, the mid-level trims of both models are worth considering. The Chevrolet Equinox’s LS trim starts at around $25,000 and adds features like 17-inch aluminum wheels, a power driver’s seat, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Ford Edge’s SEL trim, priced at around $27,000, offers similar upgrades, including a more advanced infotainment system and a power liftgate.
One question to consider is, are the extra features worth the added cost? If you’re looking for a more premium driving experience, the mid-level trims may be the sweet spot. However, if you’re on a tighter budget, the base models may still offer enough features to get by.
Top-Tier Trim Features and Pricing
For those who want the ultimate in luxury and technology, the top-tier trims of both models offer a range of high-end features. The Chevrolet Equinox’s Premier trim, priced at around $31,000, adds features like a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system. The Ford Edge’s Titanium trim, priced at around $34,000, offers similar upgrades, including a 2.0-liter engine, a premium leather-trimmed interior, and a 12-speaker audio system.
The question is, are the top-tier trims worth the added cost? If you’re looking for a vehicle that’s loaded with the latest technology and luxury features, the answer may be yes. However, if you’re on a tighter budget, you may want to consider a lower trim level and add features à la carte.