Before you choose either the 2024 Ford Escape or 2024 Chevy Equinox, check out our comparison guide. When you see how these small crossovers stack up against one another, it’ll be easy to select the model that best suits your needs.
Key Takeaways
- Thanks to its lower starting price, the Chevy Equinox is the best choice for budget-minded shoppers.
- The Escape easily outmaneuvers the Equinox, thanks to four powerful engine options.
- Compared to the Equinox, the Escape helps you save big at the pump.
- The Escape offers tech features you won’t find on the Equinox, including built-in navigation.
How Much Does the 2024 Chevy Equinox Cost?
You can save a few thousand dollars simply by choosing the entry-level Equinox, which starts at $26,600. However, the base Escape isn’t much more expensive, starting at $29,459. And as we’ll see, the Escape’s MSRP includes more standard features than the Equinox offers!
How Many Engine Options Are Offered For the 2024 Ford Escape?
The Escape offers something you don’t often see in the compact crossover segment: four engine options. Availability depends on trim model, but all engines are designed to combine a comfortable ride with a peppy performance. But even with its least-powerful engine, the Escape has the edge over the Equinox.
Here’s a quick look at the 2024 Escape’s powertrain options:
- Turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine (180 horsepower, 199 lb-ft of torque)
- Turbo 2.0L four-cylinder (250 hp, 280 lb-ft)
- 2.5L hybrid four-cylinder (192 hp, 155 lb-ft)
- 2.5L plug-in hybrid four-cylinder (210 hp, 155 lb-ft)
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- Continuously variable transmission (hybrid and PHEV powertrains)
- Front-wheel drive
- Optional all-wheel drive
Like most compact crossovers, every Equinox trim model utilizes the same engine. With 175 horses and 203 pound-feet of torque, the Equinox is nearly as powerful as the base Escape. But if you want a quicker option, you’re out of luck!
The 2024 Equinox’s powertrain specs include:
- Turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder engine (175 horsepower, 203 lb-ft of torque)
- Six-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive
- Optional all-wheel drive
Does the 204 Ford Escape Get Good Gas Mileage?
You might be surprised to learn that the Escape delivers both more power and better fuel economy than the Equinox. EPA ratings vary according to which engine option you prefer, but you can save the most at the pump with the Escape’s hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain. With the optional hybrid powertrain, the Escape earns up to 39 mpg combined (42 city/36 highway). The Escape PHEV trim model is even thriftier, earning 40 mpg combined in hybrid mode. The PHEV can also travel up to 37 miles in all-electric mode, helping you avoid using any gasoline at all!
With its turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the Chevy Equinox earns up to 28 mpg combined (26 city/31 highway). Even the Escape’s base engine, which also delivers more power, is thriftier, earning up to 30 mpg combined (27 city/34 highway).
What Sort of Technology Does the 2024 Ford Escape Have?
Not only does the Ford Escape come standard with more features, but it also offers a few items you won’t find on the Chevy Equinox. While both crossovers come standard with infotainment touchscreens and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, the Escape also adds a power liftgate and dual-zone automatic climate control.
As you move up the trim levels, you can equip the Escape with a much savvier lineup. Both crossovers offer options like remote ignition, wireless smartphone charging, and premium sound systems. However, only the Escape offers built-in navigation, evasive steering assistance, and a head-up display.
What Is the Best Option Between the 2024 Ford Escape and 2024 Chevy Equinox?
With its lower starting price, the 2024 Chevy Equinox has certain appeal. But in every other way — especially in terms of power, fuel economy, and on-road technology — the 2024 Ford Escape comes out on top!