2023 Chevrolet Equinox vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered Canadians a range of six models, with prices starting from $47,799 to $66,759, excluding a $2,095 destination charge. The lineup expanded with the rugged Timberline trim, and the new ST-Line added a sporty flair to the XLT version. The Explorer's design, based on a rear-drive platform, featured a long hood, short front overhang, and a tapering greenhouse, giving it a taut, athletic look. Blacked-out roof pillars contributed to a "floating roof" effect. Inside, higher-trim Explorers mixed quality with some questionable materials, but mostly felt worthy of their price.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox, while not as bold as some competitors, presented an attractive crossover with a chunky front end that made the grille appear smaller. The Equinox came in four trims: LS, LT, RS, and Premier, with FWD or AWD options. Its design shared language with the larger Traverse, and big windows on a short profile gave an impression of spaciousness. The interior, though a bit dated, was practical and approachable, with a PRNDL shift lever and ample cupholders. The Premier trim featured two-tone leather upholstery and a range of comfort features, enhanced by the optional Confidence and Convenience II package.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The XLT, ST-Line, and Timberline trims featured a 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic and standard 4WD in Canada. It had a towing capacity of 2,400 kg and consumed between 10.3 and 11.8 L/100 km. The hybrid option for the Limited trim combined a 3.3-litre V6 engine for 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 2,268 kg and using as little as 9.6 L/100 km. The twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 engine, standard on the ST and Platinum, produced 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 2,540 kg with a fuel consumption of 11.8 L/100 km. The Explorer offered a robust ride, with the Timberline model providing enhanced off-road capabilities.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox featured a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, now with 175 hp and 203 lb-ft of torque. It handled low-speed acceleration well but struggled above 50 km/h. The six-speed automatic transmission held gears longer, contributing to noise. AWD was available but required manual engagement. The Equinox's braking system was upgraded to an electronically assisted brake-by-wire system, providing smooth action. The suspension handled bumps well, and the steering was tight and accurate, making it enjoyable to drive.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided comfort for families of four, with a second-row bench seat allowing for occasional five-passenger capacity. The third-row seat was best suited for children due to limited space. Higher trims offered features like triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and massaging front seats. Storage space was limited, with missed opportunities for additional compartments. The cargo area offered 528 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,132 litres with all seats folded.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox had a cargo area of 847 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,809 litres with seats folded. Passenger space was ample, with good headroom and legroom. The interior used higher-quality plastics, with plenty of storage options. The Premier trim featured a nearly silent power liftgate, and a panoramic sunroof was available on most trims.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with 8-inch and 10.1-inch touchscreens. The system included FordPass Connect, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. However, the voice recognition system was lacking, and the Explorer would benefit from an upgrade to Sync 4. Additional tech included a 12.3-inch digital display and Active Park Assist 2.0.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox offered a simple yet effective infotainment system, with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The system was easy to use, with good voice recognition and customizable icons. The Premier trim featured a wireless charging pad, and a Bose audio system was available on higher trims.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with standard Ford Co-Pilot360 features like forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety systems operated smoothly, though steering wheel sensitivity could be improved.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox included standard safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance. However, it lacked level two autonomous driving technology. The NHTSA awarded it five stars overall, but the IIHS rated it poorly in some crash tests.