Jeep Cherokee Vs. Chevy Equinox: Which is Right for You?

The Jeep Cherokee is a phenomenal SUV, but it isn’t the only option out there. Before you choose your vehicle, it’s always a good idea to check out the pros and cons and get to know the options that are available to you. When you compare the Cherokee to other similar models, such as the Chevy Equinox, you find places where they each stand out. 

In this guide, we will share with you a comparison review of the Jeep Cherokee vs. the Chevy Equinox. It’s up to you to decide which is the right fit, but we hope you will come see us at Vatland CDJR when you’re ready to find your new car. 

Power & Fuel Economy

The Jeep brand has always been known for creating powerful vehicles. All Jeep models are made for off-roading while being compatible with traditional driving needs. Because of this, you typically see more power in their engine and transmission design. That being said, your Chevy Equinox also has plenty of power; it just may not be as muscular for off-roading adventures. 

The Jeep Cherokee and Chevy Equinox both primarily operate on a 4-cylinder engine. However, the Cherokee has more horsepower and uses a 2.0 or 2.4L engine, as opposed to the 1.5L engine of the Equinox. 

Fuel economy is also similar, but given the slightly less powerful engine, the Equinox also gets slightly higher gas mileage. When you compare the two, you see the Jeep gets about 21-29 MPG, while the Chevy gets 24-31 MPG. It’s not a huge gap, but does make a minor difference. 

The Jeep Cherokee is also rated for up to 2,000 pounds of towing capacity, while the Equinox is only recommended for minimal towing needs. 

Interior Details

If you’re looking for more room, there are trade-offs with both of these vehicles. In the passenger cabin, the Cherokee has 128 cubic feet of space, which offers quite a bit of room. It’s designed with leg room and comfort space so you don’t feel squished in, even in the back seat. 

Both vehicles hold up to 5 passengers. The Equinox is slightly more compact in this area, with only about 104 cubic feet of passenger space. This might make the backseat feel a bit more cramped, but it’s still roomy enough to be comfortable. 

Cargo space is the opposite. The Jeep Cherokee has a cramped cargo space, while the Equinox really expands the cargo space to give you more room. The Jeep has only 25.8 cubic feet in the rear cargo area, while the Chevy has 30 cubic feet. This 5-foot difference for cargo could make a big difference in some cases. 

When you break it down, the Cherokee has just a touch more leg room. Head room is about the same between the two, and cargo is exponentially expanded in the Equinox, so it’s something to consider. 

Technology and Safety Features

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Technology and driver assistance or other safety features are a huge part of what you should be looking at in your SUV. With continual technological updates, it is important that your needs are met! For a long time, Jeep was behind in this area, but it has since improved and generally meets the basic expectations. 

Both the Cherokee and the Equinox have Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and navigation capabilities. You won’t get navigation on the base model for either car. The Jeep does have HD Radio, while the Equinox only has this on their premium model. Both have great speakers and stereo systems overall. 

When it comes to safety, the details do vary just a little bit. They each have unique features available. The Cherokee offers emergency braking assistance, lane keeping assistance, a backup camera, parking sensors, and the full array of air bags. 

In comparison, the Equinox does not have braking assistance, but does have blind spot monitoring, forward collision warning, backup camera, and front and rear airbags as well. 

The Jeep Cherokee has not been rated by NHTSA for crash safety, but we know the Jeep brand is built for adventure and has safety features incorporated. The Chevy Equinox has been tested and has a 5-star overall rating. 

Price Tag

For some buyers, it comes down to the price tag. These brands fall into different categories so you know that they will also have different price ranges. The Chevy Equinox is more affordable. When you compare similar features, you will pay quite a bit more for the Jeep model. 

That being said, there is also a trade-off for getting the towing capabilities and the muscular structure of the Jeep that might meet more of your needs. It really boils down to the features that you are looking for and the strength and capability you want as well. 

Bottom Line

When you break it down, it just depends on your preferences and your needs. The Equinox has more cargo room and a little less leg room. It’s a smooth and comfortable ride that will be reliable and is slightly more affordable. It also may not be as capable as some of your Jeep models will be. 

In comparison, the Cherokee has more capability for adventure with more power behind the wheel. In terms of leg room, the Cherokee does provide more. It’s also a smooth and comfortable ride with many sought-after technological and safety features available. 

Find Your Perfect Ride Today! 

Which SUV are you leaning toward? Both of these can be great vehicles, but if you’re looking for the standout option, we recommend testing the Jeep Cherokee out and then narrowing down your decision from there. 

Come see us at Vatland CDJR to check out your options and test drive one today.