Compact SUVs are perfect urban vehicles that offer as much utility as their larger cousins without their bulk. Both the 2024 Ford Escape and the 2024 Chevy Equinox are solid choices for those who prefer American-made vehicles. Find out which of these two contenders would be best for your needs as we compare their specifications.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- 2023’s Ford Escape base model is now fleet only — consumer trims start with the Escape Active.
- Both automakers have made only minor changes to these SUVs in 2024.
- The Escape offers three engines but four powertrains, while the Equinox offers only one engine.
Trim Levels and Price Points: The Ford Escape
Ford hasn’t changed much about Escape since giving it a bold facelift in styling and trim level structure back in 2023. There are currently six trims:
- Active: $29,495
- ST-Line: $30,490
- ST-Line Select: $34,040
- Platinum: $37,465
- ST-Line Elite: $38,460
- Plug-in Hybrid: $40,500
In comparison, the Equinox has four trims:
- LS: $27,995
- LT: $30,890
- RS: $32,345
- Premier: $33, 195
While the Active is the Escape’s most inexpensive trim package, it costs a little more than the Equinox LS. However, buyers have more trim packages to choose from with the Ford Escape.
Changes to the Escape and Equinox for 2024
As some elements of the Escape were changed in 2023, there’s not much for this year. Ford did introduce some colors and retired others. The former Escape’s Base is now fleet only — the consumer line now starts with the Escape Active. Newly standard to the ST-Line and up is Intelligent Access with push-button start.
Some colors have also been added and retired for the Equinox, and there have been some changes to its active driver assist system, but it, too, is otherwise the same.
Engine and Fuel Economy: The Escape
The Escape offers a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine, which, when paired with either front- or all-wheel drive, delivers 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque and a 2.0L EcoBoost which can generate up to 250 horsepower and 280 lb.-ft of torque.
Ford offers two Escape hybrids — one is plug-in. They consist of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors. Combined, they crank out a steady 210 horsepower and 155 lb.-ft of torque.
The Equinox has but one engine option — a 1.5-liter four-cylinder that delivers 175 ponies and 203 lb-ft of torque. For all trims, a six-speed automatic transmission and FWD is standard; however all-wheel drive is optional.
Interiors and Tech: It’s a Tie
The Escape's interior is pleasant and functional, with controls that are easy to reach and use. The driver’s and passenger’s seats offer several adjustments to dial in comfort for the long haul. There’s plenty of headroom and knee room for everyone inside; however, on models with a panoramic sunroof, it may be a tight fit for taller passengers.
The Equinox also has comfortable seating and plenty of head- and legroom upfront and in the back with an ample amount of wiggle room for all passengers.
The Escape’s 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system can be upgraded to a 13.2-inch display on the lower-level trims. The larger screen comes standard with the Hybrid Platinum and ST-Line Elite. All controls and functions are intuitive.
The Equinox’s controls are also easy to read and simple to use. Its touchscreen is 7-inches in lower-level trim packages but can be upgraded to an 8-inch display with Chevy’s Infotainment 3 system. Higher trims receive the 3 Plus system with the larger display. The LT, RS, and Premier trims can upgrade even further to the 3 Plus system with a GPS navigation system.
Both the Equinox and Escape feature Apple CarPlay, Android Auto for wireless connectivity.
Storage: The Equinox
The Equinox has the same amount of cargo space as the Escape — both SUVs have a little under 64 cubic feet — and is equipped with sizable storage cubbies in the front and large door pockets in the back.
It’s rare for lower-level trim packages to have anti-tip tabs in their cupholders, but the Equinox does. Car-seat anchors and tethers are easy to access for child seats and pet restraints.
The Escape’s car-seat anchor and tethers are also simple to master. The SUV has two full sets of LATCH connectors for its outboard seats, as well as a tether anchor for the back middle seat.
Its cargo area has a low floor and high seatbacks, creating ample vertical space to store cargo without reducing rear visibility. While the rear seats don't fold flat, the outboard seat belts can be removed for extra space.
The Best Full Size Truck For You
With more trim-level options and engines to choose from, the Ford Escape is the clear winner. If you’re looking for a sporty and reliable SUV that can take you and your family and cargo from the city to the country comfortably, come in and test drive one today at Lunghamer Ford!