Equinox vs RAV4 – Crossover Face-off

Toyota RAV4 Overview

Drivetrain Options

In our quest to compare the Toyota RAV4 against the Chevrolet Equinox, understanding the available drivetrain options for the RAV4 is crucial. The 2024 Toyota RAV4 comes with three main drivetrain options:

1. Gas: The standard gas engine offers a balance of performance and efficiency, making it a reliable choice for daily commuting and road trips.
2. Hybrid: Combining a gasoline engine with an electric motor, the hybrid option boosts fuel efficiency and reduces emissions. This is ideal for eco-conscious drivers.
3. Plug-In Hybrid: The RAV4 Prime, Toyota’s plug-in hybrid variant, provides an all-electric driving range for short trips around town while retaining the flexibility of a gasoline engine for longer journeys.

The versatility of these drivetrain options allows potential buyers to choose the configuration that best suits their needs, be it efficiency, performance, or a blend of both.

Trim Levels

When comparing the Toyota RAV4 to other crossovers like the Equinox, the variety of trim levels is significant. The RAV4 offers a range of trims, each catering to different preferences and lifestyles:

Each trim level provides a unique blend of features, allowing buyers to select a model that aligns with their specific requirements and budget.

For more comparisons of the RAV4 with similar vehicles, please check out our articles on corolla cross vs rav4 and venza vs rav4.

Chevrolet Equinox Overview

In our comparison of the Equinox vs RAV4, let’s start with a detailed overview of the Chevrolet Equinox.

Redesign Update

The latest iteration of the Chevrolet Equinox features a range of updates that notably bring it closer to the look and feel of larger trucks like the Silverado. According to MotorTrend and CarGurus, the 2025 model includes:

• New truck-like styling with trim-specific front fascias
• Upgraded automatic transmissions
• A wide range of new standard driver-assist systems
• Fresh infotainment systems tailored to modern needs

These updates ensure the Equinox remains competitive in the rapidly evolving SUV market.

Pricing Comparison

Pricing is a critical consideration for many buyers. The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox starts at approximately $26,600, whereas the 2024 Toyota RAV4 has a starting price of about $28,675 (PickYourWheels). Despite the Equinox being more affordable, factors such as fuel efficiency, performance, and advanced technology might influence buyers towards the RAV4.

The table below outlines the base pricing for these models:

Internal Links for Further Reading

For more detailed comparisons, check out our other articles that dive into specific features and capabilities of both models:

• corolla cross vs rav4
• rav4 vs highlander
• venza vs rav4
• rav4 le vs xle
• rav4 vs chevy traverse
• nissan rogue vs toyota rav4

Performance

When comparing the Equinox vs RAV4, it’s essential to evaluate their performance capabilities. We’ll take a closer look at engine power and fuel efficiency.

Engine Power

The Toyota RAV4 boasts a more powerful engine overall compared to the Chevrolet Equinox. The RAV4’s engine produces 203 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque, making it a strong contender in the crossover market. On the other hand, the Equinox’s standard engine generates 175 horsepower and 203 lb.-ft. of torque, giving it an advantage in torque but trailing behind in horsepower.

Figures courtesy Business Insider

For buyers looking for a bit more power under the hood, the RAV4 may be the preferred choice. However, the Equinox’s turbocharged option might appeal to those seeking more torque for towing or sporty driving.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is a critical factor for many crossover buyers. The Toyota RAV4 excels in this area with an EPA rating of 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. In comparison, the Chevrolet Equinox offers slightly lower fuel efficiency at 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.

Figures courtesy PickYourWheels

For those who prioritize fuel economy, especially for long-distance travel, the RAV4 is the superior option. Additionally, Toyota offers hybrid versions of the RAV4, further enhancing fuel efficiency. For more on how the RAV4 compares to other crossovers, check out our article on rav4 hybrid vs gas.

By understanding the performance metrics of both the RAV4 and the Equinox, potential buyers can make informed decisions based on their specific needs and preferences. To explore more comparisons, visit our articles on rav4 vs Chevy Traverse and rav4 vs 4Runner.

Interior Features

When comparing the interior features of the Chevrolet Equinox and Toyota RAV4, it’s essential to examine both the infotainment systems and safety technologies offered by each vehicle.

Infotainment

In terms of infotainment, both the Equinox and RAV4 provide a rich set of features designed to enhance the driving experience. The Equinox, particularly the LT trim, stands out with its refined touchscreen and additional connectivity options like a 4G LTE hotspot (Business Insider).

On the other hand, the RAV4 offers a user-friendly infotainment system across all its trims. Its standard 8-inch touchscreen is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing seamless integration with most smartphones. Furthermore, the RAV4 includes Amazon Alexa compatibility, ensuring that drivers have access to their favorite apps and services without distraction.

Safety Technology

Safety technology is a crucial factor for many buyers, and both the Equinox and RAV4 deliver robust features in this area. The RAV4 excels in safety with standard inclusions like dynamic cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keep assist (Business Insider). These features, part of Toyota’s Safety Sense™ 2.0, offer peace of mind to drivers and passengers alike.

Conversely, the Equinox also provides a comprehensive suite of safety technologies. Standard features include side blind zone alert, rear-cross traffic alert, and rear park assist. While the Equinox delivers many safety enhancements, it lacks advanced cruise control as part of its standard package, which is notable in the RAV4.

The RAV4’s superior standard safety features make it an enticing option for safety-conscious buyers. For a comprehensive comparison with other models, check out our articles on mazda cx5 vs toyota rav4 and nissan rogue vs toyota rav4.

Cargo Space

RAV4 Cargo Capacity

When comparing the 2024 Toyota RAV4 to its competitors in the crossover market, cargo space is a critical consideration, especially for families or individuals who prioritize storage capacity. The RAV4 offers a generous cargo area, providing 67 cubic feet of space when the rear seats are folded down (PickYourWheels). Even with the rear seats up, there is still ample room for everyday items.

For those who often find themselves carrying bulky items or a lot of luggage, the RAV4’s cargo capacity can be a significant advantage. Additionally, the RAV4 surpasses the Chevy Equinox in other key aspects such as fuel efficiency and handling, making it a well-rounded choice (CoPilot Search). For a broader comparison, you may also be interested in our article on venza vs rav4.

Equinox Cargo Capacity

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox offers a respectable cargo area but falls short when compared to the Toyota RAV4. With the rear seats folded down, the Equinox provides 63.5 cubic feet of cargo space (MotorTrend). When the rear seats are up, the cargo space is reduced but remains practical for various uses.

Despite its slightly lower cargo capacity, the Equinox remains a viable option for those who don’t require as much storage space. It continues to offer less cargo room than key competitors like the RAV4 and the Honda CR-V, both of which are known for their spacious interiors. For more details on how the Equinox stacks up against these rivals, visit our article on rav4 vs chevy traverse.

When evaluating equinox vs rav4, the cargo space may be a deciding factor for potential buyers. The RAV4’s superior cargo capacity, along with its other advantages, makes it a strong contender in the crossover segment. For those who need even more room or different features, our articles on rav4 vs highlander and rav4 vs 4runner offer detailed comparisons.

Safety Ratings

When choosing between the Toyota RAV4 and Chevrolet Equinox, safety is a significant factor for potential buyers. Here, we compare their performance in safety tests and evaluate their advanced safety features.

Crash Test Comparisons

Both the Toyota RAV4 and the Chevrolet Equinox have been subjected to multiple crash tests by various safety organizations. These evaluations help gauge their safety in real-world situations.

According to PickYourWheels, the Toyota RAV4 generally receives higher safety ratings due to its advanced safety technology and robust build. Notably, it has earned the Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS, a testament to its excellence in crashworthiness and collision avoidance.

Advanced Safety Features

Safety features play a crucial role in protecting occupants and preventing accidents. Both the RAV4 and Equinox are equipped with a range of technologies to enhance safety.

Toyota RAV4:

The Toyota RAV4 excels in safety features, with standard inclusions such as:

• Dynamic cruise control
• Pre-collision braking
• Lane-departure warning
• Lane-keep assist

These features contribute to its impressive safety ratings and user confidence in its performance on the road (Business Insider).

Chevrolet Equinox:

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox also boasts a variety of advanced safety features, including:

• Enhanced automatic emergency braking
• Forward collision alert
• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane keep assist
• Rear park assist

Despite these effective safety measures, it tends to fall slightly behind the RAV4 in overall ratings due to the latter’s superior safety technology and design (MotorTrend).

To explore more comparisons, you can check out our articles on corolla cross vs rav4, rav4 vs highlander, and venza vs rav4. For those focusing on advanced utility and safety in a compact SUV, the nissan rogue vs toyota rav4 comparison may also be enlightening.

2025 Updates

For potential RAV4 buyers looking to compare across segments, the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox introduces several noteworthy changes.

Equinox Changes

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox enters a new generation with a refreshed design, new transmissions, and updated infotainment systems. It features a new truck-like appearance with trim-specific front fascias and incorporates a range of improvements across its models (MotorTrend).

Significant updates include:

• Exterior Design: A bold, truck-like appearance with trim-specific front fascias.
• Transmissions:
• Front-wheel-drive models are now equipped with a CVT automatic transmission, optimizing fuel efficiency.
• All-wheel-drive models feature a new eight-speed automatic transmission.
• Fuel Efficiency:
• Improved fuel economy for front-wheel-drive models, achieving up to 31 mpg on the highway.
• A slight decrease in fuel efficiency for all-wheel-drive models.
• Infotainment: A new infotainment system with enhanced connectivity and user interface to rival competitors like Toyota RAV4 vs Ford Edge.

Safety Enhancements

The 2025 Equinox continues to prioritize safety with an abundance of standard features and enhancements. Previous models earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA but had mixed results in IIHS testing, indicating the need for improvement (MotorTrend).

Key safety updates include:

• Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking: Standard across all trims, offering improved response times.
• Forward Collision Alert: Enhanced with new sensor technologies.
• Adaptive Cruise Control: More responsive and accurate in maintaining safe distances.
• Lane Keep Assist: Improved accuracy in lane detection.
• Rear Park Assist: Upgraded with better proximity sensors for safer parking maneuvers.
• Additional Features: Incorporating new driver assists to stay competitive with the Toyota RAV4 Prime vs Hybrid.

For more details on how the Chevrolet Equinox stacks up against other SUVs, consider comparing it with the Venza vs RAV4 and RAV4 vs Chevy Traverse.

Future Outlook

Equinox EV

The future seems promising for Chevrolet with the upcoming 2025 Equinox EV. This all-electric version is expected to deliver significant performance enhancements over its gasoline counterpart. The base model, 1LT trim, is anticipated to start at around $34,995 and deliver up to 210 hp and 242 lb-ft of torque, with an estimated range of 319 miles (MotorTrend). Higher-end models will offer even more power, with figures reaching up to 290 hp and 346 lb-ft of torque. This makes the Equinox EV a formidable contender in the electric vehicle market.

The pricing and specifications for the all-electric trims are as follows:

Potential Market Impact

The launch of the Equinox EV could shake up the crossover market, especially among buyers considering electric alternatives. With impressive range and power, it’s set to lure potential RAV4 buyers, particularly those eyeing the RAV4 Hybrid or RAV4 Prime. The competitive pricing of the Equinox EV makes it an attractive option against other electric SUVs, including potential comparisons like Mazda CX-50 vs Toyota RAV4.

As the market trends towards sustainability and eco-friendly vehicles, the introduction of the Equinox EV could pressure Toyota to enhance its offerings in the hybrid and electric segments. Consumers benefit from this competition with improved technology, better features, and more choices.

Furthermore, the inclusion of advanced safety technologies in the Equinox EV may set new industry standards, prompting comparisons with the Ford Escape vs RAV4 and Honda CR-V Hybrid vs RAV4 Hybrid. This could substantially influence consumers looking for cutting-edge safety features alongside performance.

To stay competitive, Toyota will need to continue innovating and expanding their hybrid and electric lineup to match the evolving demands of the market. For more in-depth comparisons, check out our articles on RAV4 vs Forester and Subaru Outback vs Toyota RAV4.