Equinox vs Outback
The Equinox and the Outback compete for the same spot on your shortlist, with Chevrolet and Subaru each making its case. Call it a near draw on paper, with just a few specs pulling the two apart.
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 27 lb-ft more torque
For torque, the Equinox leads by a wide margin: 203 lb-ft versus 176 lb-ft. More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
Equinox leads
In the engine & performance category, the Equinox isn’t just ahead; it’s clearly ahead. Here the Equinox offers 27 lb-ft more torque. Electrified powertrains deliver torque instantly, so compare torque figures alongside the powertrain type. In short, the Equinox is the better-equipped car for engine & performance.
Torque
Equinox: 203 lb-ft Outback: 176 lb-ft The Equinox’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
If space & practicality matters most to you, this section won’t make the decision for you: they’re level. Net result on space & practicality: level.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
In the off-road & towing category, the Equinox and the Outback land in almost the same place. This section won’t settle the choice, so weigh the other areas more heavily.
Safety & Tech
Nothing to tally in the safety & tech section, but plenty to read. The table lists what the Equinox and the Outback each use.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Equinox | Outback |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Gas |
| Engine | 1.5L turbo I4 | 2.5L flat-4 |
| Total system output | 175 hp | 182 hp |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft (winner) | 176 lb-ft Least torque in class |
| Transmission | N/A (not specified) | CVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD (AWD available) | AWD |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | Equinox | Outback |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | N/A (not specified) | 28 mpg |
| Fuel economy (city) | N/A (not specified) | 26 mpg |
| Fuel economy (highway) | N/A (not specified) | 32 mpg |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | Equinox | Outback |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | Equinox | Outback |
|---|---|---|
| Ground clearance | N/A (not specified) | 8.70 in |
| Max towing | N/A (not specified) | 2,700 lb |
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | Equinox | Outback |
|---|---|---|
| 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 176 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 Outback?
On the specs compared here, the Equinox makes more sense for most buyers; the Outback doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
The Equinox against the Outback: two brands, one class, and more nuance than the marketing suggests. Here’s what matters most to me: the Equinox offers 27 lb-ft more torque.
The Equinox is built for people who weigh engine & performance heavily, and the Outback for people who weigh the things a spec sheet can’t capture.
My pick: the Equinox.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.