2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV vs 2023 Subaru Forester

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV initially appeared similar to its internal combustion engine counterpart, sharing features like rounded wheel wells and a flat beltline. However, upon closer inspection, the EV version showcased more decisive lines, a thicker body-colored C-pillar, and a sleeker grille. The front fascia was more body-colored, and the rear design was more defined, featuring hexagons and a light bar echoing the front. Standard 19-inch aluminum wheels were available on the 1LT and 2LT trims, while the higher trims boasted 21-inch versions. The Equinox EV offered vibrant color options like "Red Hot" and "Riptide Blue Metallic," with two-tone paint jobs available on certain trims, adding a youthful and exuberant touch. Inside, the base model was limited to black, but higher trims offered additional color choices, including sporty options like Adrenaline Red.

The 2023 Subaru Forester maintained a familiar appearance, resembling its predecessors from the past two decades. The Forester's design was functional, with a boxy shape and flared fenders, reminiscent of a smaller Subaru Ascent. The Touring trim stood out with its 18-inch alloy wheels and satin chrome exterior trim. The Forester's roof rails were robust, supporting various accessories and even a tent. Inside, the Touring trim featured Saddle Brown leather, exposed stitching, and metallic accents, maintaining a traditional Subaru design with analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen. The interior was practical, with a mix of buttons and knobs for easy control, though the overall appearance was busy. Despite its simplicity, the Forester's design prioritized functionality and ease of use.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV featured a hands-free start, allowing drivers to simply get in and go. It offered one-pedal driving, adjustable through a regenerative braking setting or drive modes like Tour, Sport, Snow/Ice, and My Mode. The Equinox EV provided a comfortable ride, with the single-motor FWD variant delivering 213 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. The AWD version boasted a dual-motor powertrain with 288 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque, capable of towing up to 1,500 pounds. The EPA estimated a range of 319 miles for FWD models and 285 for AWD, supported by an 85-kWh battery. The Equinox EV could fast charge at up to 150 kW, regaining about 77 miles of range in 10 minutes.

The 2023 Subaru Forester was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT. The CVT mimicked a traditional automatic with eight programmed ratios, and the SI-Drive system offered a Sport mode for quicker responses. Most trims included an X-Mode off-road system with various driving modes. The Forester Wilderness trim enhanced off-road capabilities. During testing, the Forester handled challenging weather conditions with ease, inspiring confidence. The Forester Touring felt livelier than expected, though the engine remained adequate. The Forester's driving dynamics were excellent, with responsive steering, effective brakes, and well-tuned suspension. However, it fell short of its EPA fuel economy rating, and a turbocharged engine or hybrid option would be welcome.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV, starting from the 2LT trim, included heated front seats, a steering wheel, and outside mirrors. The 3LT trim added power adjustments for the passenger seat, front-seat ventilation, and heated rear seats. Dual-zone climate control was limited to 3LT and above. The Equinox EV offered comfortable front seats, with headroom and legroom measurements slightly below some competitors. The AutoSense power liftgate provided access to 26.4 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 57.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Roof rails were standard on all but the base trim.

The 2023 Subaru Forester prioritized function over form, offering features like a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated front seats from the Premium trim. Higher trims included StarTex or genuine leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and heated rear seats. The Forester's visibility was excellent, with tall glass and thin pillars. However, the sunroof's lack of tint could lead to solar heating. The Forester's interior was spacious, with ample legroom and headroom, though rear seats lacked support. The Forester's doors were well-sealed, and interior storage was plentiful. The cargo area offered 26.9 cubic feet of space, expandable to 69.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV featured a driver-oriented cockpit with a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen and an 11-inch driver-information screen. Google Built-In was standard, providing Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store. An eight-year OnStar Remote Access Plan subscription was included, essential for the MyChevrolet app, which offered navigation, route planning, and charging station locations.

The 2023 Subaru Forester's technology appeared outdated but was functional. The Base trim included a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Premium trims added satellite radio, HD Radio, and Starlink services. An 8-inch touchscreen with navigation and a Harman Kardon audio system was available. The Forester's older Starlink system was user-friendly, with separate climate controls and easy-to-use knobs. However, the voice-recognition system was unreliable, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto preferable.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV came with Chevy Safety Assist, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and more. Additional features included rear park assist, reverse automatic braking, blind-zone steering assist, and adaptive cruise control. Teen Driver Technology allowed parents to set speed alerts and volume limits. Super Cruise and enhanced automatic parking assist were available on higher trims.

The 2023 Subaru Forester featured the next-generation EyeSight system with improved software and cameras. Models with blind-spot monitoring included Automatic Emergency Steering. Rear Automatic Braking was available on higher trims. The Forester's DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System was exclusive to the Touring trim. The Forester earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA.