Ford vs. Chevy is a battle for the ages, with both makes putting in their best efforts to one up the other across various markets and segments. That competition has led to many of the yearly rewards for best in class often coming down to one or the other. And 2025 is no different, as they’ve both brought viable contenders for the SUV class in the form of the Ford Escape and Chevy Equinox. This year, they’ve both brought revised models to the table, and today we’ll be looking at the two head on to see which brings the best affordable SUVs under $30k in the 2025 model year.
Key Takeaways
- The Chevy Equinox debuts a new generation this year.
- The Ford Explorer is mostly unchanged, remaining as versatile as ever.
- The Equinox starts at just under $30K, but has similar pricing with the Explorer.
When can you buy a 2025 Chevy Equinox?
The Equinox entered its fourth generation this year, and has been available since late 2024. As of this writing, the price of the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox starts at $29,995, and goes up to $34,395 depending on the trim and options. So it’s within the $30,000-$35,000 with all of its trims. The Equinox’s lineup includes three distinct models: LT, RS, and Activ. The LS is the base model, offering a solid Equinox experience at just under $30K. And the peak trim is just under $35K!
The Active and RS trims are the Equinox’s more specialized models – with the Active packing on more of an off-road appearance, while the RS brings on a more sleek, modern look. They both bring their own equipment, unique wheel designs, and unlock access to two-tone paint schemes.
Is Ford making a 2025 Escape?
Yes! This year, The 2025 Ford Escape carries over with no significant changes. The 2025 Ford Escape has a starting sticker price as of writing of $29,895, with the range-topping Escape ST-Line Elite Hybrid kicking off at $39,605.
- Active – $29,895
- ST-Line – $30,890
- ST-Line Select – $33,725
- ST-Line Hybrid – $33,985
- ST-Line Select Hybrid – $35,685
- Platinum – $37,040
- Platinum Hybrid – $37,110
- ST-Line Elite – $38,035
- ST-Line Elite Hybrid – $39,605
The Ford Escape doesn’t lack in value, with its multiple trim lines suiting a wide variety of needs. The best outright value over a period of time can be found with the ST-Line Hybrid. Offering a bump in performance and efficiency, when paired with the Tech Pack 1. This combination brings added safety and convenience features, including Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist with adaptive cruise control, lane-centering, evasive steering assist, and rear parking sensors. It also upgrades the cabin tech with a 13.3-inch touchscreen equipped with built-in navigation. However the higher trims are closer to $40K than its Chevy rival.
What colors will the 2025 Chevy Equinox come in?
For 2025, the new Chevrolet Equinox is offered in a wide variety of exterior paint options, including several single-tone colors, though buyers can also select from a wide array of two tone colors if they’re looking to stand out on the road. A full list of single and dual-tone paints read as:
Single Tone:
- Summit White
- Cacti Green
- Sterling Gray Metallic
- Mosaic Black Metallic
- Lakeshore Blue Metallic
- Radiant Red Tintcoat
- Reef Blue Metallic
- Iridescent Pearl Tricoat
Dual tone colors:
- Cacti Green / Summit White
- Sterling Gray / Summit White
- Mosaic Black / Summit White
- Radiant Red Tintcoat / Summit White
- Reef Blue Metallic / Summit White
- Summit White / Mosaic Black Metallic
- Cacti Green / Mosaic Black Metallic
- Sterling Gray Metallic / Mosaic Black Metallic
- Lakeshore Blue Metallic / Mosaic Black Metallic
- Radiant Red Tintcoat / Mosaic Black Metallic
- Reef Blue Metallic / Mosaic Black Metallic
- Iridescent Pearl Tricoat / Mosaic Black Metallic
Summary
Of the two, it’s the Equinox that brings the best overall package to the table. Though the Escape offers more individualized tiers, the Equinox’s 3 offerings pack similar levels of practicality at a much reduced price when compared to the upscale Platinum trim and ST-Line Elite trims.
The Equinox lets buyers decide what kind of experience they want from the get go, keeping their starting price low while leaving the door open to tack on any extra tweaks they may need to ensure their Equinox is uniquely theirs.