2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV vs 2025 Ford Escape Platinum
$910 less vs 75 more hp and 77 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $910 price gap, 175 vs 250 hp, 26 vs 26 MPG.
The Equinox ACTIV leads on $910 less. The Escape Platinum leads on 75 more hp, 77 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 4 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 4 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 | 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV | 2025 Ford Escape Platinum |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $35,000 | $35,910 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.0L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 175 hp | 250 hp |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft | 280 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 23 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 31 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.6 gal | 15.7 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | $1,700/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,607 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 107.5" | 106.7" |
| Length | 183.2" | 181.2" |
| Width | 74.9" | 74.1" |
| Height | 65.6" | 66.0" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 6yr/100k | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV and 2025 Ford Escape Platinum?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV starts at $35,000, $910 less than the 2025 Ford Escape Platinum at $35,910. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $16/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV is the stronger pick when you want to keep $910 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2025 Ford Escape Platinum?
The 2025 Ford Escape Platinum is the stronger pick when the extra 75 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV or 2025 Ford Escape Platinum?
Both achieve 26 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV or 2025 Ford Escape Platinum?
The 2025 Ford Escape Platinum produces 250 hp, 75 more than the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV at 175 hp. The 2025 Ford Escape Platinum also leads in torque at 280 lb-ft vs 203 lb-ft. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Ford Escape Platinum uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV bigger than the 2025 Ford Escape Platinum?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV is 2.0″ longer at 183.2″ vs 181.2″. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV has a 0.8″ 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, Ford trims, Ford Escape trims
- 2025 Ford Escape Platinum Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Equinox–Escape Decision
Cross-shopping midsize SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Equinox and Escape compare. The $910 gap is about $16/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Ford Escape Platinum uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Ford Escape Platinum has 75 more hp (250 vs 175). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Ford Escape Platinum adds 77 more lb-ft of torque (280 vs 203), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV when you want to keep $910 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Ford Escape Platinum when the extra 75 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $16/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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 Ford or any dealership.