With their dynamic performance and all-encompassing cabins, modern drivers can’t help but love the 2019 Ford Escape and Chevrolet Equinox. But you can only choose one, so which should you choose? Our comparison guide takes a closer look.
Comfiest Cabin: 2019 Ford Escape
When you’re in the market for a compact crossover, you’re looking for both comfort and utility. That’s why the 2019 Ford Escape has our vote for comfiest cabin. The Escape supplies both long-haul comfort and big-time cargo space. You’ll love its roomy, supportive seating. But you’ll also love how you can fill 34 cubic feet of cargo space with your weekend supplies.
The Chevrolet Equinox also gets high marks for seating comfort. The cabin’s modern layout delivers plenty of space for elbows, legs, and head. The optional panoramic sunroof can cut down on rear-seat headroom—something for tall families to keep in mind. The Ford Escape also offers more cargo space; there are only 29.9 cubes behind the Equinox’s rear seats.
Smartest Infotainment Features: 2019 Ford Escape
This competition was a close one, but we think the Escape’s infotainment gear gives it the edge. Ford’s new SYNC 3 infotainment system is well rounded, with quick responses to your input and menus that are easily understood. When you’re driving, you can take in the touchscreen graphics at just a glance or use the advanced voice controls to mess with the settings. The system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Just plug your phone into the system to project smartphone apps onto the 8-inch touchscreen.
The Equinox’s new Infotainment 3 system is a close second. This system also includes an 8-inch touchscreen that’s quick to react to your requests. And it’s got the coveted Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration setup. We do think the Ford interface is easier to figure out, though, giving the Escape the win here.
Sportiest Performance: 2019 Ford Escape
If you love to drive, the Escape is the compact crossover for you. Sporty is definitely the perfect word for the Escape’s performance, which features everything from snappy engine responses to sure handling. As you swing around curves, you’ll feel more like you’re sitting pretty in a sport sedan than a touring crossover.
In the driving department, the Chevrolet Equinox has some pretty sporty chops as well. Driving enthusiasts should definitely choose the engine upgrade for modern speed. There’s really only one drawback: a big turning radius. You might not expect that from a compact crossover, but the Equinox can be hard to handle in a tight spot.
Thriftiest Ride: 2019 Chevrolet Equinox
The Equinox’s optional diesel engine gives this crossover the thrifty advantage. Configured with front-wheel drive, the diesel-powered Equinox earns up to 28 city and 39 highway miles per gallon. Those are impressive figures for this segment.
Still, the Ford Escape does a good job balancing fuel economy with sporty power. Its thriftiest engine, the turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, earns up to 23 city and 30 highway mpg.
The Chevy Equinox has a lot up its sleeve, but we’d drive the 2019 Ford Escape home in a heartbeat. Once you take one for a test drive, we think you’ll agree that it’s the best crossover for the job. Ford’s compact crossover is the smartest, sportiest, and comfiest option.