Chevrolet Equinox vs Subaru Outback Surprise AZ

2019 Chevrolet Equinox

Bigger doesn't always mean better in the auto industry as the popularity of compact SUVs has shown. From the Toyota CHR to the Jeep Renegade, many drivers are falling in love with what some car enthusiasts 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 lands them in the hatchback category. However, if you prefer a larger “little big car” that looks more like a sports utility vehicle, the Chevy Equinox is a wise choice when you're traveling from point A to point B in Surprise.

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 looking at the overview alone, it’s clear that the Chevy Equinox is more affordable and gives you the most bang for your buck. Not only is the sticker price lower, but you also save more dollars at the gas pump and can tow more weight for your next trip than you can with the Subaru Outback. It's a good choice for any escapade you have planned in Surprise or beyond. However, if a large tank, standard AWD, and cargo space is important to you and you don't have a problem spending an additional $2,500 or more for those features, then the Subaru Outback may suit you better.

Detailed Specs

For a well-informed car buyer, a short overview isn't enough for you to buy or not to buy a specific automobile. 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 in Surprise Chevy dealer. So, here is a more in-depth look into the Chevrolet Equinox and the Subaru Outback specifications.

Powertrain

The major difference in the powertrain is that the Chevrolet Equinox has a DCT, while the Subaru Outback boasts a CVT. Generally speaking, U.S. drivers don't like manual transmissions, so if the dual-clutch transmission has you feeling a bit uncomfortable, rest assured, there's nothing worry about. It is similar to a manual transmission, but it makes shifting gears smoother and faster. Additionally, the DCT is fuel efficient, which can save you lots of money down the road.

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 getting behind the wheel of an AWD, the main difference you may notice is how well the vehicle handles. However, AWD systems are heavier, which makes them less fuel efficient. Because of this, it's best to go with an AWD only when you need it. AWD models are most useful when you live near or drive over dirt or gravel roads throughout Surprise and surrounding areas.

If traveling along dirt or gravel roads is not an everyday occurrence, then you should consider getting the best of the fuel-efficient FWD options available to you. You can do just that when you find a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox for sale in Surprise Chevy dealer.

Engine

Both SUVs sport 4-cylinder gas engines. For the standard models, the Subaru Outback offers a more powerful 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 option for hauling your outdoor gear, braving rocky terrain and quickly merging into highway traffic as you go about your daily activities in and around Surprise.

Safety Ratings

Accidents occur, and fortunately, when it comes to safety, both the Subaru Outback and the Chevrolet Equinox are leaders of the pack. According to Car Gurus, each car scored 5-star National Highway Safety Transportation Administration (NHSTA) ratings in the following key categories:

• 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 more peace of mind when you're driving during hazardous weather conditions. Even though Surprise only averages nine inches of rain annually compared to 39 inches in the rest of the country, you must exercise caution when it's rainy. Slick streets and reduced visibility can increase the likelihood of a car accident. So, it's good to know that the Equinox and Outback take driver safety seriously.

Safety Features

To support these outstanding safety ratings, the Equinox and the Outback offer advanced tech safety options to protect drivers and their passengers, especially on the new and improved 2019 models. A few of the safety features are listed below.

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 Surprise 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 Surprise 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 Surprise AZ

Here is a list of the available exterior colors to choose from when purchasing your 2019 Chevrolet Equinox for sale in Surprise 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 Surprise 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 solid choices in the automotive sector for Surprise drivers who value safety, appreciate customized luxury, and prefer a budget-friendly “little big car”. The Outback does lead the way in the areas of leg room, cargo capacity, and surround sound. However, when it comes to lower monthly car payments and cheaper gas station fill-ups, the Equinox comes out as the winner.

In addition to picking your drivetrain, choosing from a wide range of package customization options, and selecting the exterior colors, the Equinox gives you the luxury of creating a one-of-kind SUV that suits your budget, personality, and lifestyle. Additionally, you can save even more cash by buying a 2018 Chevrolet Equinox from your local Surprise Chevy dealer.

Take an Equinox for a spin around Surprise! Find a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox for sale in Surprise Chevy dealer and set up an appointment. Our friendly team looks forward to showing you all of what the Equinox can offer you.

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.