Equinox vs Forester
If you’re shopping for a car in the compact suv class, the Equinox and the Forester are likely both on your shortlist. The gap between the Equinox and the Forester is narrow enough that price, looks or habit could reasonably tip it.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance Equinox wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance0.3
- Engine & Performance0.2
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 Equinox has 25 lb-ft more torque
Close, but not identical: the Equinox lists 203 lb-ft and the Forester lists 178 lb-ft. The Equinox’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
Equinox leads
The Equinox has the slight upper hand on engine & performance. The Equinox scores with 25 lb-ft more torque. Electrified powertrains deliver torque instantly, so compare torque figures alongside the powertrain type. The takeaway: on engine & performance, the Equinox is the stronger car.
Torque
Equinox: 203 lb-ft Forester: 178 lb-ft More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
The differences on space & practicality are small enough to ignore in daily use. Neither car gives you a reason to choose it on space & practicality.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
The off-road & towing section is even. Any gaps here are within the range you’d never notice. So off-road & towing is a non-factor here; move on to the areas where they actually differ.
Safety & Tech
There isn’t a number to compare on safety & tech, just names. Look at the rows below to see how the Equinox and the Forester differ.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Equinox | Forester |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Gas |
| Engine | 1.5L turbo I4 | 2.5L flat-4 |
| Total system output | 175 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft (winner) | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | N/A (not specified) | CVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD (AWD available) | AWD |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | Equinox | Forester |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | N/A (not specified) | 29 mpg |
| Fuel economy (city) | N/A (not specified) | 26 mpg |
| Fuel economy (highway) | N/A (not specified) | 33 mpg |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | Equinox | Forester |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | Equinox | Forester |
|---|---|---|
| Ground clearance | N/A (not specified) | 8.70 in |
| Max towing | N/A (not specified) | 1,500 lb |
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | Equinox | Forester |
|---|---|---|
| Driver-assist suite | N/A (not specified) | Subaru EyeSight |
| Basic warranty | 3 yr / 36,000 mi | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
“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 want more pulling power from low speeds (203 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft of torque)
- you already use other Chevrolet products
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for most people, the Equinox or the Forester?
On the specs compared here, the Equinox makes more sense for most buyers; the Forester doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
Comparing the Equinox and the Forester feels a bit like comparing two good restaurants with different menus. What I like most about the Equinox here is 25 lb-ft more torque.
Choose by what you’d use most: engine & performance leads to the Equinox, the things a spec sheet can’t capture leads to the Forester.
My pick: the Equinox.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.