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In the highly competitive compact SUV segment, the Toyota RAV4 is the gold standard. It is fun to drive, offers many standard features, and boasts off-road capabilities. See how the RAV4 destroys one of its compact SUV competitors in this 2022 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2022 Chevy Equinox comparison.

2022 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2022 Chevy Equinox

Dark gray 2022 Toyota RAV4 parked on desert terrain
2022 Toyota RAV4 | Toyota

In our comparison between the 2022 Toyota RAV4 and 2022 Chevy Equinox, we analyzed several factors. This includes performance, efficiency, towing, off-road capabilities, safety, passenger and cargo space, interior features and technologies, and price.

RAV4 vs. Equinox: Performance, efficiency, and towing

Side view of red 2022 Chevy Equinox
2022 Chevrolet Equinox | Chevrolet

For performance, the Toyota RAV4 has the advantage. It offers three powertrain options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (203 hp), a hybrid (219 hp), and a plug-in hybrid with the RAV4 Prime (308 hp). In comparison, the Chevy Equinox only offers one engine option: a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine (170 hp).

The RAV4 is the more efficient choice. The gas-powered RAV4 has a gas mileage of up to 28 city/35 highway mpg, while the RAV4 Hybrid has a fuel economy of up to 41 city/38 highway mpg. Efficiency is also very impressive for the RAV4 Prime. It has a fuel economy of 94 MPGe when driving in electric-only mode and 38 combined mpg in hybrid mode. In comparison, the Equinox has a gas mileage of up to 26 city/31 highway mpg.

If you want a compact SUV that can tow, then the RAV4 is the better choice for you. It has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, compared to 1,500 pounds for the Equinox.

RAV4 vs. Equinox: Off-road capabilities

Do you want to drive far off the beaten path? If so, then you’ll want to go with the Toyota RAV4. Along with its traction-enhancing available all-wheel drive system, it offers an off-road-focused model with the RAV4 TRD Off-Road. While the Equinox gives customers the option for an all-wheel drive system, it doesn’t offer an off-road model. Furthermore, the RAV4 has a higher ground clearance than the Equinox (8.6 vs. 8.0 inches).

RAV4 vs. Equinox: Safety

Both the RAV4 and Equinox offer many safety and driving assistance features. This includes a blind spot monitor, electronic stability control, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. However, unlike the Equinox, the RAV4 has a brake assist feature.

RAV4 vs. Equinox: Passenger and cargo space

Passenger space is one area in which the Equinox has the advantage, with a total passenger volume of 103.5 cu-ft. In comparison, the RAV4 has a total passenger volume of 98.9 cu-ft. However, the RAV4 offers more space for storage, with a rear cargo capacity of 37.6 cu-ft and a maximum cargo capacity of 69.8 cu-ft. In comparison, the Equinox has a rear cargo capacity of 29.9 cu-ft and a maximum cargo capacity of 63.9 cu-ft.

RAV4 vs. Equinox: Interior features and technologies

Compared to the Equinox, the RAV4 has a higher quality interior, with ergonomically designed seats and premium materials. Also, unlike the Equinox, the RAV4 offers a panoramic moonroof and a trip computer.

RAV4 vs. Equinox: Price

The Equinox is slightly more affordable than the RAV4. The starting price/cost of the 2022 Equinox ranges from $25,800 for the LS trim up to $31,000 for the Premier trim. In comparison, the starting price/cost of the 2022 RAV4 ranges from $26,525 MSRP for the LE trim up to $43,125 MSRP for the RAV4 Prime XSE trim. While the RAV4 costs more than the Equinox, with its greater capabilities and more features, it offers better value.

2022 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2022 Chevy Equinox: Compact SUV domination

As you can see from viewing our 2022 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2022 Chevy Equinox comparison, the RAV4 destroys the Equinox. It has a plethora of advantages. This includes performance, efficiency, towing, off-road capabilities, cargo space, safety, and interior features and technologies.

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