Chevrolet Equinox vs Ford Explorer
The Chevrolet Equinox is more fuel-efficient at 26 MPG combined, against 23 MPG for the Ford Explorer. At EPA assumptions that is about $300 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Chevrolet Equinox | Ford Explorer | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 947 | 1,037 |
| Most reported problem | Engine | Steering |
| Crashes and fires | 22 and 8 | 15 and 12 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 80,000 miles | 65,000 miles |
| Recalls | 3 | 5 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 26 MPG | 23 MPG |
| City and highway | 22 and 31 | 20 and 27 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,600 | $2,900 |
| NHTSA overall safety |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 947 complaints for the Chevrolet Equinox and 1,037 for the Ford Explorer. Complaint counts depend heavily on how many of each vehicle were sold, so a higher count does not by itself mean a less reliable car.
NHTSA's overall safety ratings: 4 stars for the Chevrolet Equinox, 4 stars for the Ford Explorer.
Safety recalls on file: 3 for the Chevrolet Equinox, 5 for the Ford Explorer.