2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV vs 2025 Subaru Forester Touring
$6,595 less and 25 more lb-ft torque vs 2 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $6,595 price gap, 175 vs 180 hp, 26 vs 28 MPG.
The Equinox ACTIV leads on $6,595 less, 25 more lb-ft torque. The Forester Touring leads on 2 MPG better. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV | 2025 Subaru Forester Touring |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $35,000 | $41,595 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 175 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 24 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 32 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.6 gal | 16.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,607 lbs | 3,664 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 107.5" | 105.1" |
| Length | 183.2" | 183.3" |
| Width | 74.9" | 72.0" |
| Height | 65.6" | 68.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 6yr/100k | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV and 2025 Subaru Forester Touring?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV starts at $35,000, $6,595 less than the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring at $41,595. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $116/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV is the stronger pick when you want to keep $6,595 in your pocket and the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Touring is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $115/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV or 2025 Subaru Forester Touring?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Touring rates 28 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV or 2025 Subaru Forester Touring?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Touring produces 180 hp, 5 more than the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV at 175 hp. The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV also leads in torque at 203 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring uses a 2.5L flat 4.
Is the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV bigger than the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Touring is 0.1″ longer at 183.3″ vs 183.2″. The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV has a 2.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Chevrolet trims, Chevrolet Equinox trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Forester trims
Equinox vs Forester: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV and 2025 Subaru Forester Touring sit in the midsize SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $6,595 gap adds up to $116/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 5 hp difference (180 vs 175) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Equinox vs Forester
The 2025 Subaru Forester Touring saves roughly $115/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $575.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV when you want to keep $6,595 in your pocket and the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $115/year less on fuel. At $116/month more, the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Chevrolet or Subaru or any dealership.