2020 Chevrolet Equinox vs 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was a vehicle that revealed its charm over time. Its design was not ostentatious but rather functional, with features like a dished hood that improved forward visibility, making it easier to navigate challenging terrains. The subtle bulging of the fenders provided both aesthetic appeal and practical space for wheel travel. The Heritage Edition added a touch of retro flair with blackened trim, a unique grille, and bronze wheels, while the interior offered a near-luxury experience with leather-trimmed seating and a functional, albeit slightly plain, dashboard. The Land Cruiser's interior was comfortable and well-executed, though it leaned towards a more subdued aesthetic.

In contrast, the 2020 Chevrolet Equinox Premier trim exuded a clean and appealing design without relying on typical SUV styling cues. The Premier trim, with its 19-inch wheels and chrome detailing, signaled its top-tier status. Inside, the Equinox featured a high-contrast cabin with Jet Black and Brandy leather, a panoramic sunroof, and metallic accents. However, the presence of hard plastics detracted from the overall upscale feel. Despite this, the Equinox offered a comfortable driving experience, with features like a sliding rear seat to maximize space and a well-equipped interior that catered to both driver and passenger needs.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was renowned for its robust performance, powered by a 5.7-liter V8 engine producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD, made the Land Cruiser a formidable vehicle both on and off the road. It boasted impressive off-road capabilities with an approach angle of 32 degrees, a departure angle of 24 degrees, and a breakover angle of 21 degrees. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System and Multi-Terrain Select control knob further enhanced its off-road prowess, while the vehicle's size and visibility made long drives comfortable and serene.

The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox offered two engine options, with the Premier trim featuring a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivering 252 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided lively acceleration and was paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, available in both FWD and AWD configurations. The Equinox's ride quality was firm and connected, with the Premier's 19-inch wheels offering a more athletic feel. While the Equinox didn't encourage spirited driving, it provided a balanced and comfortable experience, with the 1.5-liter engine option offering adequate performance for most drivers.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was designed for versatility, with features like skid plates, tow hooks, and a roof rack catering to both urban and off-road environments. The standard model offered a three-row configuration with heated second-row seats and a split-folding third row, while the Heritage Edition focused on two-row seating. The Land Cruiser's interior was equipped with four-zone climate control, numerous cup holders, and a cooling box in the center console. It could tow up to 8,100 pounds and featured a split tailgate for easy loading and unloading.

The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox provided a practical and comfortable interior, with the Premier trim offering leather seats, power adjustments, and heating options. The sliding rear seat allowed for flexible passenger and cargo space, with generous legroom in the rear. Cargo volume was 29.9 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expanding to 63.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Equinox also featured ample storage throughout the cabin, making it a convenient choice for families and daily use.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser came equipped with a 9-inch touchscreen interface, offering Toyota Premium Audio with Integrated Navigation, 14 JBL speakers, and various connectivity options. However, it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which were common in competitors. The Enhanced Multi-Terrain Monitor camera system was a standout feature, providing selectable views for navigating challenging terrains and tight spaces.

The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox offered a range of infotainment systems with 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreens, all featuring Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The Premier trim included a high-definition display, Bose sound system, and navigation. The Equinox's technology was intuitive and user-friendly, with options for wireless charging and a rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense P, offering features like pre-collision detection, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. It also included the Star Safety System, 10 airbags, and various safety assist features. However, it lacked crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. It also offered a reversing camera, Teen Driver technology, and optional upgrades like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. The Equinox received top safety ratings from both IIHS and NHTSA, making it a reliable choice for safety-conscious buyers.