Comparing the 2025 Chevy Equinox to the 2025 Ford Escape

There are plenty of things to like in both the 2025 Chevy Equinox and the 2025 Ford Escape, from their ease of handling to their reliability on the road. These two models have some things in common, such as a similar price point for the base model, but they also have some key differences that potential buyers should note. Read on to find out more about the 2025 Chevy Equinox vs 2025 Ford Escape and which of these two models may be the right choice for your next purchase.

Power, Handling, and Performance

There are plenty of similarities in these models’ performance. The 2025 Equinox has one engine option in a turbocharged 1.5L I-4 that produces 175 hp and 203 lb-ft of torque. The 2025 Escape’s base engine—a turbocharged 1.5L EcoBoost I-3—is rather comparable at 180 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque, so its slight differences aren’t too noticeable when driving. Both have an 8-speed automatic transmission, although the Equinox gives a continuously variable-speed automatic transmission (CVT) to its FWD models.

Both of these engines are available in front- or all-wheel drive, but the Equinox offers AWD with all trims, including the base level, while Ford doesn’t make AWD available on all of the Escape’s trim levels. The Escape does, however, offer other engine options, such as a larger EcoBoost engine that is only available in AWD and has lower fuel efficiency. Case in point, the Equinox’s 1.5L 1-4 engine gets 27 MPG combined, but the Escape’s 2.0L I-4 gets 26 MPG combined.

Exterior Styling and Design for 2025

The exterior of the 2025 Chevy Equinox boasts sleek lines for an appealing aesthetic that pairs beauty with aerodynamics for a well-rounded SUV. It has a redesigned front grille, LED headlights, and chrome touches that give the Equinox a look and feel of luxury. The refined design is no coincidence, as the body styling and sophisticated lines add to this vehicle’s fuel efficiency.

The 2025 Ford Escape conveys a more subdued design—similar in shape but flatter in its styling—that will see it blend in with other vehicles on the road. 2025 Equinoxes have some new color options, as well as the availability of a two-tone roof on certain trim levels. Shoppers who are looking for a vehicle that will stand out from the masses will find just that in the attractive exterior styling of the 2025 Chevy Equinox.

Interior Options for These Two Models

Both vehicles have room for five passengers with comparable amounts of cargo space left over. Chevy offers more interior color options for the 2025 Equinox, with three options to choose from compared to only two offered with the 2025 Escape. With an eye on comfort, the Equinox comes standard with heated front seats, even at the base level. The Ford Escape has this feature as a paid option for the first two trims, after which it becomes standard.

The Equinox also has the option of ventilated front seats, which are not available with the Escape. The Equinox is designed for all kinds of driving, so it has a lumbar support feature for the driver’s seat that can add to comfort on longer drives. Also standard with the Equinox is a heated steering wheel. While an available option with the Escape, Ford makes it a paid option for all but the higher trims. The two higher trim levels of the Equinox further add to the comfort equation with heated rear seats.

Infotainment Technology Shines Through

The 2025 Chevy Equinox is the clear winner over the 2025 Ford Escape in regard to in-vehicle technology. While both 2025 models have compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the Equinox has an 11.3-inch infotainment color touchscreen that comes with Google integration, even at the base level. The Escape comes standard with a paltry 8-inch LCD touchscreen. To get a larger touchscreen in the Escape, buyers must move up in trim level or pay extra.

This larger screen makes it easier to keep your eyes on the road while operating navigation, media, and other important tools in the Chevy Equinox. With this eye on connectivity, a wireless charging pad is available in the base Equinox and standard on the higher two trim levels. The Ford Escape makes this an option on some of the lower trims and standard on some of the higher trims, while some don’t have the option at all. Adaptive cruise control is also standard on all trims of the Equinox; it isn’t standard on the 2025 Escape until the higher trims.

Features That Are Dedicated to Safety

Known for its dedication to road safety, the comprehensive Chevy Safety Assist suite is standard on the 2025 Equinox. This suite offers important features like automatic emergency braking and a lane-keeping aid, marking a big differentiator from the Ford Escape.

There are also plenty of enhanced safety features that can be added to your Equinox, including surround vision and rear cross-traffic braking. The manufacturer’s focus on making a safer driving experience shines through in the 2025 Equinox. The Ford Escape offers its own safety system with the Ford Co-Pilot 360 suite. However, many of the more advanced safety features are only available at higher trim levels.

The Trim Levels Available for 2025

For 2025, the Chevy Equinox offers three distinct trim levels. While this may seem light compared to the 2025 Ford Escape’s six trims, the Equinox has significantly more options and features available at the base level, giving it a feature-rich starting point.

SUV shoppers can find that they get more options for their money with a Chevy Equinox rather than being forced to go up in the trim levels and, alternatively, in price for the features that they want when purchasing a Ford Escape. Chevy’s inclusion of the most essential features and luxuries in the base trim is what makes the 2025 Equinox stand out.

Another stark difference between these two models can be seen in the top trim level for the 2025 Equinox, the ACTIV, which has off-roading features that make it ready for backcountry travels. Equipped with a uniquely tuned suspension, the ACTIV offers a blend of comfort and performance for drivers who might stray from asphalt paths.

Witness How the 2025 Equinox Differentiates Itself

When looking for a family vehicle that will offer reliable performance for long-distance driving, there is a clear winner in the 2025 Equinox. Chevy is a name synonymous with reliability, and this continues to be seen in the 2025 Equinox. To really see the difference between this model and the 2025 Ford Escape, you need to see the Equinox for yourself and experience the superior features that come standard.

With a focus on driver ergonomics and improved comfort, drivers will find that Chevy has factored luxury into the design of the 2025 Equinox. The ease of handling and everyday comfort are what make the Equinox stand out over the Ford Escape and other compact SUVs on the market. Visit McCluskey Chevrolet to test drive a 2025 Equinox and experience the comfort of this Chevy model first-hand. You will quickly discover why the Equinox continues to be a leader in the crossover category.