The SUV class is extremely popular, and as such is rife with options from various makes. Chevy and Ford both have mainstays in the class in the form of the Equinox, an icon in the class, providing plenty of different options, and Ford has the Escape, venerable and worth considering for its patented Ford touch.
In this comparison of affordable SUVs under $30,000 in 2025, we’ll be comparing the two models to see which of the two has the best outright offer this year, saving you money by getting you the best deal possible in the SUV class.
Is Ford making the Escape in 2025?
Yes! There are no major changes to the Escape for 2025. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2025 Ford Escape starts at $30,645 and goes up to $39,005, depending on the trim and options.
- Active - $30,645
- ST-Line - $31,490
- ST-Line Select - $35,685
- Platinum - $36,510
- ST-Line Elite - $39,005
Of these, the ST-Line is recommended when it comes to maximizing outright value, as it's the most affordable way to access the punchy 2.0-liter straight-four engine. To equip it requires adding the Select package to your ST-Line, which includes all-wheel drive, a welcome addition for those looking for extra performance on (and off) the road. The ST-Line stands out with its distinctive 18- or 19-inch wheels, body-colored lower cladding, mesh grille, and fetching rear spoiler.
On the inside, it features an all-black interior sporting red contrast stitching and a flat-bottomed steering wheel. If you’re looking for a more advanced tech setup? The premium technology package has you more than covered with upgrades to the interior tech. The standard 8.0-inch screens are replaced with a 13.2-inch infotainment display which is paired with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.
Will there be a 2025 Equinox?
Yes! This year, the Chevy Equinox gets a significant refresh with a bolder exterior design, with highlights featuring squared-off wheel wells, fender flares, full LED lighting, and unique fascia treatments for each trim level. It’s also 2.3 inches wider than the outgoing model, enhancing its road presence. Inside, the Equinox now comes standard with a large 11.3-inch infotainment screen with Google built-in and a digital gauge cluster.
Chevrolet has simplified the trim lineup to just three: LT, RS, and the new rugged Activ, replacing the former LS and Premier trims. The new Activ trim brings off-road styling and capability with all-terrain tires, a distinctive grille, black badging, 17-inch aluminum wheels, and an updated interior.
That’s not all that’s new on the Activ trim, though, as it includes upscale front seats with a heating function, as well as a heated steering wheel. Gear shifting is now done via a gear selector on the steering mount, and the RS and Activ trims also get a drive mode selector in 3 modes: Normal, Snow, and Off-Road. Transmission options include an efficient CVT, exclusive to front-wheel-drive models, and an eight-speed automatic for those with all-wheel drive. Prices are expected to start around $32,000, and part of the deal includes more safety and driver assistance features now coming standard across the lineup.
Should I Choose the 2025 Chevy Equinox or the 2025 Ford Escape?
Between the two, it’s the Equinox that wins this head-to-head, for providing the best all-around deal when considering the outright value and practicality offered by both models.
Offering more in the new department, the Equinox keeps things simple and practical when it comes to making your choices within the lineup, two things we value in a new SUV. We would be happy here at Coleman to show you why this SUV is right for you!