Equinox vs CX-50
The Equinox and the CX-50 land in the same compact suv category, so the comparison is fair, and the differences are telling. Neither side dominates. Only a few of the compared specs differ by enough to matter day to day.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance Trade-off
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance0.3
- Engine & Performance0.3
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The CX-50 has 12 hp more power
Only a little separates them: 187 hp on the CX-50, 175 hp on the Equinox. The CX-50’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed.
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The Equinox has 17 lb-ft more torque
It’s a fine margin, and it favors the Equinox (203 lb-ft versus 186 lb-ft). More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Design & Size
Dimensions
| Spec | Equinox | CX-50 |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelbase | N/A (not specified) | 110.8 in |
Engine & Performance
Trade-off
The Equinox leans on 17 lb-ft more torque in this section, while the CX-50 leans on 12 hp more power. Neither gets an outright win on engine & performance; your habits break the tie.
Total system output
Equinox: 175 hp CX-50: 187 hp Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels.
Torque
Equinox: 203 lb-ft CX-50: 186 lb-ft Electrified powertrains deliver torque instantly, so compare torque figures alongside the powertrain type.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
On paper, the space & practicality comparison ends all square. On space & practicality alone, you can’t go far wrong with either.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
The off-road & towing specs are close enough that neither gets the point. Bottom line for off-road & towing: it’s a wash.
Safety & Tech
Nothing to tally in the safety & tech section, but plenty to read. The table lists what the Equinox and the CX-50 each use.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Equinox | CX-50 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Gas |
| Engine | 1.5L turbo I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Total system output | 175 hp | 187 hp (winner) |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft (winner) | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | N/A (not specified) | 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD (AWD available) | AWD |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | Equinox | CX-50 |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | Equinox | CX-50 |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | Equinox | CX-50 |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 3 yr / 36,000 mi | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
Dimensions
| Spec | Equinox | CX-50 |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelbase | N/A (not specified) | 110.8 in |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the Equinox if…
- you often drive loaded up or with a trailer (203 lb-ft vs 186 lb-ft of torque)
- you prefer staying with Chevrolet
Choose the CX-50 if…
- you merge, overtake or climb hills with a full load (187 hp vs 175 hp)
- you already know your way around Mazda’s products
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy the Equinox or the CX-50?
Neither wins outright. Choose the Equinox if pulling power matters most, or the CX-50 if performance does.
Executive Summary
The Equinox and the CX-50 come from rival camps, Chevrolet and Mazda, but they’re chasing the same person: you. The Equinox earns my vote first and foremost with 17 lb-ft more torque. I’ll admit the CX-50 has a point with 12 hp more power.
The way I see it, people who prioritize pulling power will be happier with the Equinox, and those who prioritize performance with the CX-50.
My pick: I’d go with the Equinox if I cared most about pulling power, and the CX-50 if performance mattered more.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.