2023 Ford Escape vs. 2023 Chevy Equinox

The Ford Escape and the Chevy Equinox are two typical vehicles to compare, and everyone is curious about the new 2023 versions of these cars. Here is what we know.

2023 Ford Escape 

The 2023 Ford Escape will revamp its trim names and instrument panels. According to Ford Authority, the previous trim level names of S, SE, SEL, and Titanium, with all versions from the SE model up available with an optional plug-in hybrid powertrain, are expected to be switched to Base, Active, ST-Line, ST-Line Plus, ST-Line Premium, and Platinum when the new Escape arrives. The revamped Escape is claimed to pick up design cues from the Mustang Mach-E and other recent Fords, such as the Evos concept and the new Mondeo outside. Inside, there’s a new, larger infotainment screen with HVAC controls moved from the console to the base of the touchscreen. 

2023 Chevy Equinox

As for the 2023 Chevy Equinox, while it does little to stand out in the crowded small SUV segment, the Equinox is spacious and offers approachable tech. It rates 5.7 out of 10 on the TCC scale. Trim levels on the Equinox include the LS, LT, RS, and Premier. The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox is expected to be a carryover from the 2022 Equinox ahead of a new model for 2024, which may be a good thing if they redesign in 2024, as the Chevy Equinox quite often gets referred to as “bland” on all reviews. There aren’t many changes to look forward to, but Equinox would be a good choice if you are looking for something a little under the radar when it comes to styling.  

Ford Escape vs. Chevy Equinox: Another Iteration of the Timeless Ford vs. Chevy Battle

It’s no surprise that Ford and Chevy have been competing for almost as long as time itself. Whether it’s Chevy copying the Ford Mustang with the Chevy Camaro or the Chevrolet Corvette vs. the Ford T-Bird, it’s fun, fun, fun until the competition between the two brands ends. This competition pushes both brands to do better than the other. It now occurs within the thriving market for the new family car, the compact crossover SUV. With an understanding of the Ford Escape and Chevy Equinox, it’s time to put their stats to the test. Below we’ll compare the most relevant features of the two cars for Ames, IA buyers. 

Engine and Powertrain: The Life Blood of the Ford Escape and Chevy Equinox 

Modern drivers often want something different from the standard gasoline engine. With volatile gas prices, fuel economy has become more critical than ever. It’s clear why some drivers have recently preferred hybrid vehicles; gas mileage benefits and even tax breaks for plug-in-hybrids increase the incentive. This allows Fort Dodge drivers to save more in the long term due to their exceptional fuel efficiency. However, fuel efficiency isn’t all there is to choose the right powertrain for you. Let’s check in on how the powertrains of these compact crossover SUVs stack up.

If you had to guess, which motor company offers more options in terms of powertrain and performance for compact crossover SUVs? If you thought Ford, you’d be right. The Ford Escape provides four powertrains: a 1.5L Ecoboost engine that makes 181 horsepower standard on most trims, an upgraded 2.0L Ecoboost engine that makes 250 horsepower, a 2.5L Atkinson-cycle I-4 engine that makes 161 horsepower, and a 2.5L Atkinson-cycle I-4 engine that makes 163 horsepower. These have competitive gas mileage ratings from the EPA with the turbocharged, gas-saving power of Ecoboost and hybrid technologies. All in all, Ford offers a powertrain for everyone.

Let’s check-in, for a moment, with the Chevrolet Equinox. This 1.5L turbocharged I-4 engine makes 175 horsepower which all of the Ford gas-only engines outcompete in terms of power output. With a lackluster showing, the Chevrolet Equinox has only one standard powertrain option on all trims. 

Once again, it’s clear that the Chevrolet Equinox is the choice for those who aren’t concerned with picking precisely what they want and would instead Chevy decide what works for them in a compact SUV. While many buyers find this comforting- let the experts decide for you- refined buyers who want to find the perfect car with all the features and power they want with nothing they don’t should lean towards the 2023 Ford Escape. You can’t even find a hybrid Chevrolet Equinox of any variety! Different brands serve different purposes for other buyers, so we’ll chalk this category up to a tie to give Equinox a break. 

Price and Value: Which SUV offers more bang for your buck?

Pricing and value are essential to finding a vehicle that suits your budget. With that in mind, it’s critical not to compromise on crucial features, saving a buck just to regret it later as you’re stuck with a relative lack of functionality. 

With that in mind, the starting MSRP of the 2023 Chevrolet Equinox is cheaper than that of the Ford Escape at $27,995 vs $29,495 respectively. As the trim levels increase, the prices hike up from there. This makes the Ford Escape seem more expensive as a vehicle. However, if you look at the Car and Driver recommended trim levels for the Ford Escape and the Chevrolet Equinox, you’ll notice they’re priced comparably at $31,835 and $32,095 MSRP, respectively.

What does this say about the overall value of the two compact SUVs? Well, you’ll get more out of the Ford Escape for a roughly equivalent price point. At the recommended ST-Line trim level, there’s a sweet interior, updated steering wheel, and a higher horsepower motor than the Chevrolet Equinox. The Chevrolet Equinox recommended model has similar modern safety features, but none of the luxury acromion of the Ford Escape at the same price point. 

While the base and top range pricing for both the Ford Escape and Chevy Equinox can be misleading, the Ford Escape actually has more value for the money. The Ford Escape is a clear choice if you’re looking for a deal on your next compact SUV instead of a more accessible choice between trims like the Chevrolet Equinox.

Interior Space: Which Compact SUV is the Champ?

Because the compact SUV has quickly become the choice for a family car, the space in the interior and the interior itself is critical to the vehicle's functionality. Let’s see who’s got more space in the trunk! 

The Chevrolet Equinox offers rear passengers the same room to stretch out as the Ford Escape, with comparable head and legroom. The Ford Escape provides just a little more front authority- and legroom than the Chevrolet Equinox, offering the driver and front passenger more room and comfort. And the Ford Escape has a much more modern interior design that has also been rated higher than the Equinox.

The cargo space is especially relevant with compact SUVs, and an important point must be made here. All Chevrolet Equinox models have the same cargo space. However, depending on the Ford Escape model chosen, you can have more cargo space than the Chevrolet Equinox, a functionally equivalent amount of cargo space compared to the Chevrolet Equinox, or less cargo space than the Equinox. If you’re looking for a compact SUV with maximum cargo capacity, Ford offers it with the Escape. It’s important to remember that depending on the trim, the Equinox and the Escape can have identical cargo space. 

The winner is evident because of the options given here regarding cargo space choices, with the ability to tailor the vehicle precisely to your needs, the overall interior space, and the increased legroom. The Ford Escape has a functionally superior interior with styling to back it up. 

Which Compact SUV Should You Choose? A Final Verdict

There are so many other aspects to these compact SUVs; however, in the most relevant elements to Fort Dodge drivers, the 2023 Ford Escape wins out. However, we’ll let you be the judge! Stop over to Fort Dodge Ford in Fort Dodge, IA, and check out the Ford Escapes in stock. Ask any questions about the 2023 Ford Escape and which models are best for you and your lifestyle. You can also view our inventory on our website. Come see us at Fort Dodge Ford today!