Chevrolet Equinox vs Subaru Outback Scottsdale AZ

2019 Chevrolet Equinox

Bigger isn't always better in the automobile sector as the growing popularity of compact SUVs continues to prove. From the Jeep Renegade to the Toyota CHR, many drivers can't get enough of what some car lovers jokingly call “little big cars”.

Some models are so tiny that compact SUVs, like the Nissan Juke, are only 162 to 164 inches long, which gets them labeled as a hatchback. However, if you want a larger “little big car” that looks more like a sports utility vehicle, the Chevy Equinox is a smart choice when you're making your way in and around Scottsdale.

Another top contender in this niche is the Subaru Outback. Subaru has focused mainly on attracting millennials who love the outdoors, while Chevy has made older blue-collar labor force its primary target market with its Chevy trucks.

Even so, a truly informed car buyer doesn't rely solely on TV advertisements when making purchases they’ll likely hold onto for years to come. So, let’s look closer at how well the specs match up when you compare Chevrolet Equinox vs Subaru Outback in Scottsdale.

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 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 a big picture view of what you can expect from both.

Just glancing at the overview alone, it’s apparent that the Chevy Equinox is more cost-effective and gives you the biggest bang for your buck. Not only is it affordable, but you also save more cash at the gas pump and can lug more weight for your excursions than you can with the Subaru Outback. It's a wise choice for any outing you have planned in Scottsdale or elsewhere. However, if a big tank, standard AWD, and cargo capacity is on your wish list and you don't have an issue paying an extra $2,500 or more for those features, then the Subaru Outback may be your best bet.

Detailed Specs

For a detail-oriented car buyer, a broad overview isn't enough for you to buy or not to buy a certain vehicle. You need to know the specs 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 Scottsdale Chevy dealer. So, here is a more detailed look into the Chevrolet Equinox and the Subaru Outback specifications.

Powertrain

The biggest difference in the powertrain is that the Chevrolet Equinox has a DCT, while the Subaru Outback boasts a CVT. Generally speaking, American drivers don't like manual transmissions, so if the dual-clutch transmission leaves you feeling a little uncomfortable, rest assured, there's nothing to worry about. It is similar to a manual transmission, but it makes shifting gears faster and smoother. Additionally, the fuel efficiency of the DCT means you can save tons of cash over the long haul.

Drivetrain

The Subaru Outback comes standard with AWD, while the Chevrolet Equinox comes standard in FWD with the option of upgrading to an AWD model. After you get behind the wheel of an AWD, you can't ignore how well the automobile handles. However, the heftiness of AWD systems makes them less fuel efficient. Because of this, you're better off going with an AWD only if you really need it. AWD models come in very handy when you reside close to or drive over dirt or gravel roads throughout Scottsdale.

If traveling along dirt or gravel roads is a rare occurrence for you, then take advantage of getting the best of the fuel-efficient FWD options available to you. When you find a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox for sale at a Scottsdale Chevy dealer, you're on the right track to getting what you need.

Engine

Each SUV sports a 4-cylinder gas engine. For the standard models, the Subaru Outback is equipped with a more powerful engine than the Chevrolet Equinox, pushing 175 horsepower and 174 lb.-ft of torque. However, the available 2.0L turbo option gives the Chevrolet Equinox the leading edge with 252 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft of torque. This makes the turbo-charged Equinox the primary option for lugging your outdoor gear, braving rough terrain and quickly merging into highway traffic as you work and play in and around Scottsdale.

Safety Ratings

Fender-benders occur, and fortunately, when it comes to driver safety, the Subaru Outback and the Chevrolet Equinox come out on top. According to Car Gurus, the vehicles scored 5-star National Highway Safety Transportation Administration (NHSTA) ratings in the following key areas:

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

Many car crashes take place at intersections in Scottsdale. One of the most crash-prone areas is the Hayden-Thomas intersection. In 2013 there were 41 reported accidents and 21 reported injuries. Often areas with apartments, shopping centers, eating establishments, and businesses attract large amounts of traffic activity. The constant flow of drivers in and around busy intersections can put you in harm's way. When driving in Scottsdale, you can feel secure knowing the Equinox and the Outback are built for safety.

Safety Features

To support these world-class safety ratings, the Equinox and the Outback offer state-of-the-art safety options to protect drivers and their passengers, especially on the new and improved 2019 models. Listed below are some of the safety features.

Packages

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

Chevrolet Equinox Packages Scottsdale AZ

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 in Surprise Chevy dealer, you get to enjoy the benefit of customizing your SUV just the way you like it. There's nothing quite like the thrill of having an automobile tailor-made based on your personal taste. This helps ensure that your model represents your unique style and personality. Buying a vehicle is a huge deal, so don't settle for driving around Surprise in an Equinox SUV that looks the same as the other models on the road.    

Subaru Outback Packages Scottsdale AZ

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 variety of packages mentioned above, there are other bonus features available on many Chevrolet Equinox and Subaru Outback models. Keep in mind that availability may vary based on the trim, year and dealership.

Exterior Colors

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

Chevrolet Equinox Exterior Colors Scottsdale AZ

Here is a list of the available exterior colors to choose from when purchasing your 2019 Chevrolet Equinox for sale in Scottsdale 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 Scottsdale AZ

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 excellent choices in the automotive industry for Scottsdale drivers who value safety, like customized luxury, and want an economical “little big car”.

The Outback leads the way in the areas of surround sound, cargo capacity, and leg room. However, when it comes to lower car payments and money-saving gas station fill-ups, the Equinox is a clear choice.

In addition to selecting your drivetrain, picking out package customization options, and choosing your exterior colors, the Equinox gives you the ability to create a one-of-kind vehicle that fits. 

Check out our current inventory of 2019 Chevrolet Equinox.

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.