2022 Explorer vs. 2022 Equinox Comparison in Salem, VA

2022 Ford Explorer vs. 2022 Chevrolet Equinox

Passenger comfort, cargo space, and power under the hood. If you need these qualities in an SUV, the 2022 Explorer and the 2022 Equinox are worth comparing. For 2022, both Ford and Chevrolet have made a few updates to models in their SUV lineup. The Ford Explorer re-introduces the ST-Line trim and the Chevrolet Equinox also adds a new trim. 

Both SUVs have a lot to offer buyers in the market for a spacious and comfortable family vehicle. But which vehicle has the right engine power, ride quality, and capacity for your family?

Comfort and Seating 

Both models have great passenger space for their segment, but if you have a larger family the additional seating in the midsized Explorer will be more suitable. The Ford Explorer will seat up to seven and most adult passengers will find that head, hip, and legroom are comfortable in the first two rows. The low bench seat in the third row is great for children and there are four LATCH connectors for car seats. 

The Equinox can comfortably seat up to five passengers, but only two seats have LATCH connectors. 

Cargo Space

With all of its seats occupied, the Equinox has 29.9 cubic feet of cargo space, which is enough space for several carry-on suitcases. With the rear seat folded the space extends to 63.9 cubic feet. The Ford Explorer, on the other hand, has 47.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row alone - still allowing room for five passengers - and 87.8 cubic feet of total cargo space.

Technology

The Chevrolet Equinox sports a standard, feature-laden, 7-inch infotainment system (8-inch available) with Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto, satellite radio, and a six-speaker system. Buyers have the option of upgrading to a 7-speaker system and adding a wireless device charger in higher trims. 

The Ford Explorer offers all of the same standard features plus it has an 8-inch touchscreen (10.1-inch available) and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Available technology includes a 12 to 15-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system and a rear-seat entertainment system.

Performance

While the Equinox and the Explorer both present a sporty and athletic exterior, the Explorer definitely outstrips the Equinox in raw power. 

The Explorer comes standard with a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that generates 300-horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The Equinox's 1.5-liter engine produces only 170-horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. So, for swifter accelerations and more towing power, the Explorer is the better choice.  

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Both Ford and Chevrolet offer a wealth of driver assistance features including teen-driver modes, rear-view cameras, and lane-departure warnings. But the Explorer offers a few more features standard on its base trim than the Equinox. Blind-spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and driver attention monitoring all come standard on the Explorer but not the Equinox.  

Get Your Next SUV in Salem, VA

If you're looking for a family vehicle that puts a lot of focus on space, comfort, performance, and safety, the 2022 Ford Explorer may be the SUV for you. Come check out all the Explorer has to offer at Berglund Ford in Salem, VA.