Comparing Compact SUVs: Domestic vs. Import for 2024

When considering a compact SUV, it’s essential to compare offerings from both domestic and international car manufacturers. This helps make a well-informed choice, striking the right balance between performance, space, efficiency and value. Today, we compare the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox, 2023 Ford Escape, 2023 Toyota RAV4 and the 2024 Honda CR-V.

Performance and Efficiency

2024 Chevrolet Equinox:

Engine: Turbocharged Gas I4, producing 175 hp @ 5800 RPM and 203 lb-ft torque between 2000-4000 RPM.

Fuel Efficiency: EnerGuide Estimate for the highway is 7.9 L/100 km.

Emissions: 207 G/km of CO2.

Transmission: 6-speed automatic.

2023 Ford Escape:

Engine: Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-3, delivering 180 hp @ 6000 RPM and 199 lb-ft torque @ 3000 RPM.

Fuel Efficiency: EnerGuide Estimate for the highway is 6.9 l/100 km.

Emissions: 197 G/km of CO2.

Transmission: 8-speed automatic with OD.

2023 Toyota RAV4:

Engine: 2.5 Litre, 4-Cylinder, DOHC with Dual Variable Valve Timing, generating 203 hp @ 6,600 rpm and 184 lb-ft torque.

Fuel Efficiency: EnerGuide Estimate for the highway is 6.3 L/100 km.

Emissions: Not Available.

Transmission: CVT with OD.

2024 Honda CR-V:

Engine: Intercooled Turbo Regular Unleaded I-4, 190 hp @ 6000 RPM and 179 lb-ft torque @ 1700 RPM.

Fuel Efficiency: EnerGuide Estimate for the highway is 7.6 L/100 km (estimated).

Emissions: Not Available.

Transmission: CVT with OD.


Interior and Comfort


Both the Ford Escape and Chevrolet Equinox impress with their spacious interiors, boasting passenger volumes of 104 ft³ and 103.5 ft³, respectively. On the other hand, the Toyota RAV4 provides a slightly more compact ambiance with 98.9 ft³, while the Honda CR-V matches the Equinox and the Escape with 103.5 ft³.

Cargo and Utility

Regarding space, the Honda CR-V leads the pack with a sizable cargo volume of 39.3 ft³ up to the second seat. Following closely are the Ford Escape at 37.5 ft³ and the Toyota RAV4 at 37.4 ft³. The Chevrolet Equinox offers slightly lesser space at 29.9 ft³.

As for towing capacities, the Ford Escape comes out on top with a capacity of 2000 lbs. The RAV4 and CR-V follow with 1750 lbs and 1499 lbs, respectively. The Equinox’s towing capacity remains unspecified.

Incentives & Financing

Incentives and financing options can make a significant difference in your purchasing decision:

2024 Chevrolet Equinox: Finance incentives range between 5.49%-6.19% for 36 to 84 months. Lease incentives are at 8.9% for 24 to 60 months.

2023 Ford Escape: Finance incentives span from 1.99% to 3.99% for 36 to 84 months, and lease incentives are set at 3.99% for 24 to 60 months.

2023 Toyota RAV4: Finance incentives begin at 7.29%, going up to 7.79% for 24 to 84 months. Lease incentives range from 6.29%-8.39% for 24 to 60 months.

2024 Honda CR-V: Standard financing and lease rates are applicable.

It should be obvious that the interest rate assigned to your finance or lease agreement is going to impact your monthly payments in a very significant way. Click on the name of each of these vehicles to check out the latest offers available at CarCostCanada®.


Concluding Thoughts

Each SUV in this comparison brings a unique set of attributes. While the Chevrolet Equinox and Ford Escape shine with their spacious interiors and robust performance, the Toyota RAV4 stands out for its unmatched fuel efficiency. The Honda CR-V, on the other hand, offers a harmonious blend of performance and space.

Your final choice should reflect which attributes align best with your needs and preferences.

🔗 Delve further into each model’s specifics:

Honda CR-V

Toyota RAV4

Ford Escape

Chevrolet Equinox

🔗 For a more detailed look at pricing and the latest incentives, visit Car Cost Canada’s website.