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When it comes down to crossover SUVs, there are many fantastic vehicles to choose from today. Having been in production since 1994, Subaru’s Outback has remained a popular mid-size crossover choice. However, Chevrolet’s Equinox remains a formidable competitor. How do these vehicles compare?
Subaru’s Outback and Chevrolet’s Equinox are similarly priced, but there are more trim levels and engine choices for the Outback. In terms of connectivity, the Outback has more modern features. The warranties offered for each provide the same coverage, though Chevrolet offers one free service.
If you’re struggling to decide between these fantastic vehicles from Subaru and Chevrolet, we’re here to help. From engine choices to warranties, we’ll be making a comprehensive comparison of these two crossovers. This will help prospective buyers make the right decision for their needs!
Comparing Subaru’s Outback With Chevrolet’s Equinox
Before we make a detailed comparison of these two vehicles, it’s important to have a brief overview of each vehicle. Let’s consider the history of both the Subaru Outback and Chevrolet Equinox!
Subaru’s Outback is a popular crossover SUV that is reminiscent of station wagons. The Outback, which has been in production since 1994, remains a popular choice from Subaru. Throughout the years, most Outback models have been standard all-wheel drives. In recent years, the Outback has received many updates.
Chevrolet’s Equinox is the newer of the two vehicles and has been in production since 2004. While older models were classed as mid-size crossover SUVs, models in recent years are classes as compact crossover SUVs. With the current models, the Equinox line has received a major update.
Subaru Outback Vs. Chevy Equinox
For this comparison, we’ll be comparing the latest year models for both vehicles.
Trim Levels And Pricing
For Subaru’s current Outback range, there are a total of eight trim levels offered. The lower trim levels include Base and Premium, with the latter being a popular choice for many drivers. Other trim levels include Limited, Onyx Edition XT, and Wilderness. The highest trim levels are Touring, Limited XT, and Touring XT. Dependent on the trim and engine selected, the price will range between $26,000 and $33,000.
For the 2022 Chevy Equinox, there are only four trim levels for buyers to choose from. These are LS, LT, RS, and Premier. For the current lineup, the price will also range between $26,000 and $33,000. While both vehicles are on par in terms of price, there are more trim options with Subaru’s Outback.
Engine And Transmission
For the 2022 Subaru Outback, there are only two engine choices for buyers. The standard engine utilized by the current lineup is a four-cylinder 2.5L engine that delivers 182 horsepower. However, buyers can also upgrade to the turbocharged 2.4L engine that delivers an impressive 260 horsepower. CVT (continuously variable automatic transmission) and all-wheel drive are standard across all models.
For Chevrolet’s 2022 Equinox, all models utilize a turbocharged 1.5L engine that generates 170 horsepower. Prospective buyers will be able to choose between front-wheel or all-wheel drive. All models are automatic. In terms of the engines offered by these two vehicles, Subaru’s Outback comes out on top!
Fuel Efficiency
For Subaru’s 2022 Outback, the non-turbocharged models have a combined MPG of 29.5. For turbocharged Outback models, however, the combined city and highway MPG is 26.5. For the 2022 Equinox from Chevrolet, front-wheel-drive models have a combined MPG of 28.5, while all-wheel drive reduces this to 27.5.
From the above, it’s clear that both of these vehicles are on par in terms of their fuel efficiency. However, the non-turbocharged Subaru Outback is the most fuel-efficient of all the engine choices for these vehicles.
Seating And Cabin
Despite its rugged design, the interior cabin of the Subaru Outback prioritizes the comfort of passengers. Across two rows, the 2022 Outback can seat up to five adults. Similarly, the current Chevrolet Equinox models can also seat five people across two rows. Unfortunately, neither of these vehicles offers a third row of seating. In terms of seating, these vehicles are neck-and-neck.
Safety Features
Both vehicles offer unique safety features to improve the overall driving experience for buyers. With the 2022 Outback, models are equipped with adaptive cruise control and automated emergency braking. Rear-cross traffic alerts and blind-spot technology are also available for Subaru’s Outback models.
Like the Outback, the 2022 Equinox also features automated emergency braking, which is able to detect pedestrians for additional safety. The Equinox also features cruise control, which will even warn you when you change lanes! Adaptive cruise control is also available for the current lineup from Chevrolet. In terms of safety features, the Outback offers more features for base trim levels.
Connectivity
For the 2022 Subaru Outback’s base trim level, there are two 7-inch touchscreen infotainment systems included, which are horizontally stacked above one another. However, all other models feature a larger 11.6-inch touchscreen, which is vertically positioned. Buyers will be able to opt for features such as wireless mobile charging and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
For the 2022 Chevy Equinox, all models are equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen system. However, users can upgrade this to an 8-inch screen. However, other connectivity features are lacking when compared to the current Outback. If you’re looking for a vehicle with advanced modern features, Subaru’s Outback is the clear winner in this category.
Warranty
In terms of their limited warranty and powertrain warranty, the Subaru Outback and Chevrolet Equinox are on par. For their limited warranties, both vehicles provide coverage for three years or 36,000 miles (57,000km). For their powertrain warranties, both vehicles offer coverage for five years or 60,000 miles (96,000km).
However, Chevrolet’s Equinox has a slight upper hand in terms of their offered warranty. That’s because buyers of Chevy’s Equinox will be eligible for complimentary maintenance for their first visit when taking their car for routine maintenance. While this is not offered by Subaru, the warranties overall are practically identical.
Conclusion
There are many similarities between Subaru’s Outback and Chevrolet’s Equinox. Both vehicles are crossover SUVs that fall within the same price bracket. In terms of pricing, safety features, and seating, both vehicles remain neck-and-neck in terms of a comparison between them.
However, Subaru’s Outback offers more trim levels, more advanced connectivity features, and better fuel efficiency. Given the similar price points for these vehicles, Subaru’s standard all-wheel-drive Outback comes out on top!
Sources:
Chevrolet: Equinox
Subaru: Outback
Subaru: 2022 Outback
Biggers Chevy: How Many Seats are in the 2022 Chevy Equinox
Chevrolet: Extended Limited Warranty
Stanley Subaru: About Subaru Warranties