Compared: 2024 Chevrolet Equinox vs. 2024 Toyota RAV4
These two SUVs have different takes on space, screens, and cost savings.
Chevrolet | Toyota
QuickTakes:
There are a few solid reasons to shop for a compact crossover, ranging from greater interior space to cargo utility to a higher seating position. The Toyota RAV4 and Chevrolet Equinox tick all those boxes, but they do so in different ways.
Toyota
The Equinox Costs Less but Offers Fewer Versions
The Toyota RAV4 comes in 13 trim packages and boasts some extra versatility with the inclusion of an optional hybrid platform. Standard gas-dependent versions start at $30,000 with the LE, while getting into a hybrid model will cost you at least $33,000 with the Hybrid LE.
Figure about $1,500 above the LE for the mid-level XLE with its alloy wheels, additional two USB ports, and dual-zone climate control. Other RAV4s include the $40,000 TRD Off-Road trim, which includes more rugged suspension tuned by Toyota Racing Development, and the top-trim Hybrid Limited for about $41,000, which includes JBL audio plus heated and ventilated front seats.
All-wheel drive (AWD) is included on hybrids and is an extra-cost option on certain gas-powered models.
The Equinox is a touch cheaper, with the base LS starting at just under $28,000. The LT, which costs about $31,000, adds heated seats and a power liftgate, while the sporty RS trim for about $32,000 brings available leather seats and a slightly different appearance package.
The Equinox's range is topped off by the $33,000 Premier, which features the more luxurious finishes plus tech upgrades. Unlike the RAV4, however, AWD is not standard on any Equinox trim and costs about $1,600.
Chevrolet
The RAV4 Offers Bigger Screens and More Space
In keeping with a more eco-friendly vibe, no RAV4 trims feature leather upholstery. The model instead features cloth or Toyota's SofTex synthetic leather, depending on the trim.
The Equinox, on the other hand, has an option for leather-appointed seats available on the RS and Premier packages.
Inside, the Toyota offers a slightly roomier interior, with 69.8 cubic-feet of storage space behind the front seats, compared with the Chevrolet's 63.9 cu-ft. Pricier RAV4 trims offer a 10.5-inch upgraded infotainment screen, which is bigger than the Equinox's largest option, an 8.0 incher.
Toyota
The RAV4 Has Better Fuel Economy, Especially in Hybrid Form
Fuel-efficiency stats show that while the RAV4 Hybrid is the clear winner — achieving 41/38/39 mpg in city/highway/combined driving — even the gas-exclusive variants have a leg up on the competition.
The front-wheel drive RAV4 scores 27/35/30 mpg, while the AWD version is rated at 27/33/29 mpg. The Equinox, meanwhile, looks to be slightly thirstier — the FWD and AWD variants achieve 26/31/28 mpg and 24/30/26 mpg, respectively.
