Chevrolet Equinox vs Subaru Outback Chandler AZ

2019 Chevrolet Equinox

Bigger doesn't always mean better in the auto industry as the high demand for compact SUVs has proven. From the Toyota CHR to the Jeep Renegade, many U.S. drivers are beginning to fall in love with what some car aficionados jokingly call “little big cars”. Some models are so small that compact SUVs, like the Nissan Juke, are only 162 to 164 inches in length, which often gets them classed as a hatchback. However, if you’re in the market for a bigger “little big car” that looks more like a sports utility vehicle, the Chevy Equinox is a wise choice when you need to get from point A to point B in Chandler.

Another top choice in this niche is the Subaru Outback. Subaru has long been a popular choice for outdoors-loving millennials, while Chevy has typically appealed more toward a mature blue-collar workforce with its Chevy trucks. Even so, a truly informed auto buyer does more than look at TV commercials when making a purchase that they’ll likely keep for years. So, let’s see how the details pan out when you compare Chevrolet Equinox vs Subaru Outback in Chandler.

Another top competitor in this niche is the Subaru Outback. Subaru has long been marketed toward millennials who enjoy roughing it outdoors, while Chevy has focused its resources on attracting a mature blue-collar labor force with its Chevy trucks.

Even so, a truly informed car buyer doesn't settle for the ads they see on TV when making purchases they’ll likely have for years to come. So, let’s take a closer look at how the specs pan out when you compare Chevrolet Equinox vs Subaru Outback in Surprise.

New listing price comparison and analysis

The newest year for both the Chevrolet Equinox and Subaru Outback is 2019. Thus, this is the year that will mostly form the benchmark for comparing both SUVs. Here is an overview of what you can expect from both.

Just looking at the overview alone, it’s obvious that the Chevy Equinox is less expensive and you get more for your buck. Not only is the MSRP lower, but you also save more money at the gas pump and can tow more weight for your next adventure than you can with the Subaru Outback. It's a good choice for any outing you have planned within Chandler. However, if cargo space, a huge tank, and standard AWD are important to you and you’re willing to pay at least $2,500 extra for those features, then the Subaru Outback may be more suitable for you.

Detailed Specs

For a well-informed buyer, a brief overview isn't enough for you to buy or not to buy a specific vehicle. You need to know the details down to the dotting of the “i” and the crossing of the “t”, especially if you're interested in a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox for sale at a Chandler Chevy dealer. So, here is a deep dive into the detailed specifications of the Chevrolet Equinox and the Subaru Outback.

Powertrain

The major difference in the powertrain is that the Chevrolet Equinox has a DCT, while the Subaru Outback boasts a CVT. Generally, American drivers do not like manual transmissions, so if the dual-clutch transmission may seem a little scary, rest assured, there's nothing to worry about. It is similar to a manual transmission but makes changing gears smoother and faster. Additionally, the DCT is fuel efficient, which can save you lots of money over the long haul.

Drivetrain

The Subaru Outback comes standard with AWD, while the Chevrolet Equinox comes standard in FWD with the option to upgrade to an AWD model. After getting behind the wheel of an AWD, the first thing you should notice is better handling. However, AWD systems are heavier, so fuel efficiency is not the best. Because of this, choosing an AWD is ideal only when you need it. You will find an AWD helpful when you live near or drive over gravel or dirt roads often, like many residents in Chandler.

If traveling along gravel or dirt roads is not common for you, then you should take advantage of getting the best of the fuel-efficient FWD options available to you. You should have no problem finding the right 2019 Chevrolet Equinox for sale at a Chandler Chevy dealer.

Engine

Both SUVs sport 4-cylinder gas engines. For the standard models, the Subaru Outback provides a more robust engine than the Chevrolet Equinox, pushing 175 horsepower and 174 lb.-ft of torque. However, the available 2.0L turbo option pushes the Chevrolet Equinox to the forefront with 252 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft of torque. This makes the turbo-charged Equinox the top choice for hauling your outdoor gear, braving hilly terrain and quickly merging into highway traffic as you make your way around Chandler.

Safety Ratings

Accidents occur, and fortunately, when it comes to safety ratings, both the Subaru Outback and the Chevrolet Equinox are at the head of the class. According to Car Gurus, both cars score 5-star National Highway Safety Transportation Administration (NHSTA) ratings on all of the following:

• • Overall
  • Front Crash Overall
  • Front Crash Driver
  • Front Crash Passenger
  • Side Crash Overall
  • Side Barrier Driver
  • Side Barrier Passenger
  • Side Pole Driver

This gives you an added peace of mind, especially when driving in less than desirable weather conditions. Even though Chandler only averages an inch of rainfall from December to March, it can be hazardous on the road. Reduced driver visibility and slick streets can increase the possibility of a car accident. So, it's reassuring to know that the Equinox and Outback made driver safety a high priority.

Safety Features

To support these notable safety ratings, the Equinox and the Outback offer sophisticated tech safety options to protect drivers and their passengers, especially on the new and improved 2019 models. Below are a few of these safety features. 

Packages

Buying a safe and dependable vehicle is important, but if you’re like most drivers, the available packages can have a major influence on your purchasing decision. Here are the packages the Chevrolet Equinox and the Subaru Outback offers.

Chevrolet Equinox Packages Chandler

The following packages will add anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars to the cost of your Equinox but are well worth the price

• Hit the Road Package ($995): For the travelers and outdoor enthusiasts, this package includes roof rack cross rails and molded assist steps.
• Style and Go Package ($1,930): This adds 19-inch alloy wheels and matching all-season tires. You will also receive a black side step and a rear bumper protector.
• Sun & Navigation Package ($2,390): This adds an 8-inch multi-purpose touch display screen, a high-end navigation system, USB data ports, SD card reader, 110V power supply, HD rear vision camera, electric glass sunroof, the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 Plus and more. It does require the Confidence & Convenience Package.
• Infotainment Package (Fleet) ($745): Like the Sun & Navigation Package, this adds an 8-inch multi-purpose touch display screen, a high-tech audio system, Chevrolet Infotainment 3 Plus, USB ports, and 110V power supply. It also requires the Confidence & Convenience Package.
• LT Lights and Bright Package ($3,240): Similar to the Sun & Navigation Package and the Infotainment Package, this includes an 8-inch multi-purpose touch display screen, USB ports, HD rear vision camera, Chevrolet Infotainment 3 Plus and a navigation system. However, unlike the other two similar packages, it includes an upgrade to 19-inch alloy wheels, black side-step, chrome trims, and LED headlights. However, like them, it also requires the Confidence & Convenience Package.
• Confidence & Convenience Package ($1, 945): For those who need or love safety features, this package is essential. It adds features like lane departure warning, side blind zone overtaking sensor, rear park assist, garage door opener, and coming home device. It also adds a few features for comfort or luxury, like a leather-trimmed steering wheel and heated front seats.
• Roadside Safety Package ($130): Another safety addition worth having, this adds high-quality first aid and highway safety kits.
• Interior Protection Package ($200): If you’re not planning on splurging on custom-made interiors, then this package throws in plastic or rubber floor mats and floor coverings.
• Cargo Package ($185): This package gives you a cargo area cover and a load restraint net.
• LT Exterior Appearance Package ($795): This upgrades your Equinox to 18-inch wheels and all-season tires. However, it may only be available for select exterior paint colors.
• Chrome Package ($795): For those who love the chrome look, this adds chrome trims on the bumpers and front grille, as well as chrome on the side mirrors.
• Blackout Package ($745): This package adds the Gloss Black emblem kit, black grilles, and toned door mirrors. It also includes the Black Bowtie emblems.

When you find a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox for sale at a Chandler Chevy Dealer, you get to take advantage of the opportunity to customize your SUV. There's nothing quite like having an automobile tailor-made according to your personal specifications. This helps ensure that your model is unique and represents your personality. Buying a vehicle is a big purchase, so you don't want your Equinox SUV looking just like another one in Chandler.

Subaru Outback Packages Chandler

The Subaru Outback has fewer packages for you to choose from. Here are the ones currently available for the 2019 models:

• Exterior Interior Auto Mirrors ($486): This package adds auto-dimming exterior mirror features with approach light and Compass.
• Exterior Interior HL Mirrors ($606): This package adds auto-dimming exterior mirror features with approach light, Compass, and HomeLink.
• Popular Package #1 ($964): This includes an auto-dimming exterior mirror with approach light, Compass, HomeLink, LED upgrade to map and dome lights, rear bumper cover, and all-weather liners for the floor.
• Protection Package #1 ($861): For the outdoor enthusiasts, this adds splash guards, wheel arch moldings, rear seat back protector, and all-weather floor liners.
• Blind Spot Detection & Rear Cross Traffic Alert + Power Rear Gate + Moonroof + Navigation System + High Beam Assist + Turn Signal Side Mirrors ($2,945): Not the most creative of names, but it does sum up precisely what is included in the package. It also includes overtaking sensor, automatic door closing for the hatch, LED side indicator lights and voice-activated navigation system.
• Moonroof + Navigation System + High Beam Assist + Reverse Automatic Braking + LED Steering Responsive Headlights ($2,150): Like the feature before this, the name sums up what is included. Also thrown in are a voice-activated navigation system and collision-warning features.

Additional Perks

Aside from the packages mentioned above, there are more bonus features available on many Chevrolet Equinox and Subaru Outback models. Keep in mind that availability may differ based on the dealership, trim and year.

Exterior Colors

Whether you’re concerned about the color of the car because of insurance premiums, or due to your own personal preference, you’ll be glad to know you have many options to choose from. Once again, the availability of colors will differ based on the dealership, trim, and year.

Chevrolet Equinox Exterior Colors Chandler

Here is a list of the available exterior colors to choose from when purchasing your 2019 Chevrolet Equinox for sale at a Chandler Chevy Dealer.

• Storm Blue Metallic
• Cajun Red Tintcoat
• Pacific Blue Metallic
• Kinetic Blue Metallic
• Pepperdust Metallic
• Orange Burst Metallic
• Iridescent Pearl Tricoat
• Nightfall Gray Metallic
• Mosaic Black Metallic
• Silver Ice Metallic
• Summit White
• Ivy Metallic
• Sandy Ridge Metallic

Subaru Outback Exterior Colors Chandler

The Subaru Outback doesn't have as many color options, but it does have a lineup of nearly ten choices:

• Tungsten Metallic
• Crystal White Pearl
• Crystal Black Silica
• Crimson Red Pearl
• Ice Silver Metallic
• Wilderness Green Metallic
• Cinnamon Brown Pearl
• Abyss Blue Pearl
• Magnetite Gray Metallic

The Verdict

The 2019 Chevrolet Equinox and the 2019 Subaru Outback are good choices in the automotive sector for Chandler drivers who value safety, enjoy customized luxury, and prefer an affordable “little big car”.

The Outback does lead the way when it comes to legroom, cargo space, and surround sound. However, when it comes to reducing your monthly car payments and gas station fill-ups, the Equinox comes out on top.

In addition to choosing your drivetrain, picking from a host of package customization options, and choosing the exterior colors, the Equinox gives you the flexibility you need for creating a one-of-kind vehicle that fits your budget, personality, and lifestyle. Additionally, you can save even more money by purchasing a 2018 Chevrolet Equinox from your local Chandler Chevy dealer.

Take an Equinox for a test drive around Chandler! Find a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox for sale at a Chandler Chevy dealer and book an appointment. Our staff can't wait to show you all of what the Equinox has to offer.

Joe has been closely associated with the automotive industry for the past 10 years. He worked closely with dealerships at his previous job with the Charlotte Observer, who had a partnership with Cars.com. At his current role, he is actively involved in promoting the Chevy brand in the Phoenix-Metro area along with Valley Chevy.