When it comes to choosing a compact SUV, drivers in Milwaukee, West Bend, Shorewood, and Brookfield have two compelling options to consider: the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek and the 2025 Chevy Equinox. Both vehicles promise a solid mix of performance, technology, and practicality, but they each offer unique advantages that could make one the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Whether you're braving snowy Wisconsin roads, taking on off-road trails, or simply commuting around town, these two SUVs provide a variety of features designed to meet your needs. So, what sets them apart, and which one is the best for you?
In this blog, we’ll take a detailed look at how the Crosstrek and Equinox compare across key areas like performance, fuel efficiency, interior features, and safety. If you're ready to find out which compact SUV will best suit your daily drive, visit or contact Sommer’s Subaru to explore the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek firsthand. Let us help you make an informed decision and get you on the road in a vehicle that truly fits your needs.
Power and Performance That Fits Wisconsin Roads
When it comes to tackling the varied terrain of Wisconsin, from snowy roads in Milwaukee to winding trails in West Bend, performance is key. The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek and Chevy Equinox both offer impressive capabilities, but each brings its own strengths to the table. Let’s take a closer look at what makes each SUV stand out in terms of power and performance.
Engine and Drivetrain Comparison
The Subaru Crosstrek offers a standard all-wheel-drive system, a feature that makes it perfect for handling Wisconsin’s snowy winters.
On the other hand, the Chevrolet Equinox comes with a front-wheel-drive system as standard, but all-wheel drive is available.
Here's the breakdown on the engine and drivetrain options:
| Feature | 2025 Subaru Crosstrek | 2025 Chevrolet Equinox |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine | 2.0-liter 4-cylinder | 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower (Base Engine) | 152 hp | 175 hp |
| Upgraded Engine | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (Premium & above trims) | — |
| Horsepower (Upgraded Engine) | 182 hp | — |
| Transmission | CVT (Base), CVT or 8-speed manual mode (Others) | CVT (FWD), 8-speed automatic (AWD) |
| Drivetrain | Standard AWD | Standard FWD, Available AWD |
Off-Road Capabilities
The Crosstrek Wilderness is built for adventure. Its enhanced suspension, higher ground clearance, and off-road tires give it an edge when it comes to navigating rougher paths. For those in West Bend or Shorewood who enjoy weekend trips or outdoor activities, the Crosstrek offers confidence when leaving the pavement behind.
While the Equinox ACTIV trim is designed with a focus on light off-road capability, it’s still primarily built for urban and highway driving. It does include off-road tires and a specially tuned suspension, but it’s not quite as off-road focused as the Crosstrek Wilderness.
Drivability in Different Conditions
- Crosstrek: The all-wheel drive comes standard, making it a great choice for slippery conditions like icy roads and snow. It provides superior grip and stability, especially in winter months.
- Equinox: While all-wheel drive is available, it's an option rather than standard, so drivers may need to opt for it if they expect challenging weather conditions.
In a Crosstrek Equinox comparison, it’s clear that the Crosstrek stands out for drivers who want a vehicle that can handle everything from snowstorms in Milwaukee to adventurous trips near Brookfield. For a subaru vs chevy suv comparison, the Crosstrek offers more versatility and confidence, especially if off-roading or all-weather driving is a priority.
Both vehicles bring solid performance, but if you’re after a vehicle that can truly handle all types of terrain, the Crosstrek is the one to beat in this compact SUV showdown.
Fuel Efficiency Matters on Your Brookfield Commute
When it comes to your daily commute in and around Brookfield, fuel efficiency is key. With long stretches of road and unpredictable traffic, you want a vehicle that can save you money at the pump. Both the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek and Chevy Equinox offer great fuel economy, but they each bring different strengths to the table. In this section, we’ll compare the fuel efficiency of these two compact SUVs, helping you find the best choice for your daily driving needs.
Fuel Economy Breakdown
The Subaru Crosstrek has a strong reputation for being both fuel-efficient and versatile. It’s designed to give you excellent gas mileage, no matter the conditions.
| 2025 Subaru Crosstrek (AWD) | City MPG | Highway MPG |
|---|---|---|
| Base Trim | 27 | 34 |
| Premium, Sport, Limited Trims | 27 | 33 |
| Wilderness Trim | 25 | 29 |
The Chevy Equinox also offers great fuel efficiency but has different engine options, which impact its performance at the gas station.
| 2025 Chevrolet Equinox | City MPG | Highway MPG |
|---|---|---|
| FWD | 26 | 28 |
| AWD | 24 | 29 |
Which Is More Efficient for You?
When considering fuel efficiency for your daily drive, the Crosstrek holds a slight edge, especially for those who prioritize long trips with fewer stops for fuel. The Crosstrek's higher highway mileage, especially in the 2.0-liter trim, can help you save more over time.
The Equinox comes in a close second with its solid fuel economy. However, for Brookfield drivers, especially those who frequently make highway trips, the Crosstrek is a better option. If your commute mainly involves city driving, the Equinox still offers a very efficient performance.
Why Fuel Efficiency Should Matter
In a Crosstrek Equinox comparison, the Crosstrek stands out when it comes to long-term savings at the gas pump. Fuel efficiency plays a major role in your overall cost of ownership, and whether you are driving through city streets or on highway routes, it can have a big impact on how often you need to refuel. For drivers who prioritize savings over time and want a reliable vehicle for Brookfield commutes, the Crosstrek offers the best balance of power and fuel efficiency.
For those in search of a subaru vs chevy SUV comparison, it's clear that while both vehicles have strong points, the Crosstrek leads in fuel economy, making it the top choice for drivers who want a vehicle that’s both affordable and capable on the road.
Cabin Comfort and Smart Tech in the Crosstrek and Equinox
When you're looking for a compact SUV, comfort and technology are essential for a smooth ride. Whether you're heading out for a weekend trip near Brookfield or commuting around West Bend, having the right features can make all the difference. The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek and Chevy Equinox both offer impressive cabins and tech, but they each have their own unique touches. Let’s explore how these two SUVs compare when it comes to interior comfort and smart technology.
Interior Comfort: Feel at Home on Every Drive
Both the Crosstrek and Equinox offer a cozy and functional interior, but there are some key differences in how they approach comfort.
Subaru Crosstrek:
- Standard Features: The Crosstrek offers cloth upholstery on base trims with optional leather on higher trims.
- Space: It has spacious front and rear seating, making it a great option for families or long trips.
- Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic climate control comes standard on most trims, ensuring comfort for both the driver and passengers.
- Quiet Cabin: The Crosstrek’s cabin is well-insulated, helping to minimize road noise for a peaceful ride.
Chevy Equinox:
- Standard Features: Cloth upholstery is standard, with available leather seats for higher trims.
- Space: The Equinox has generous space for both passengers and cargo, giving it a slight edge in rear-seat legroom.
- Climate Control: Like the Crosstrek, the Equinox offers dual-zone climate control for added comfort.
- Comfort Options: The higher trims include power-adjustable seats, memory settings, and heated front seats, ensuring luxury-level comfort.
While both vehicles deliver solid comfort, the Equinox edges out the Crosstrek when it comes to rear-seat space, especially for taller passengers. If you prioritize roominess and comfort for everyone in the cabin, the Equinox might be the better option.
Smart Technology for Modern Convenience
Both the Crosstrek and Equinox come with advanced technology that keeps you connected and informed. However, the tech features differ in terms of system design and ease of use.
Subaru Crosstrek:
- Infotainment System: The Crosstrek features a standard dual 7-inch touchscreen on the base trim, and an 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus on higher trims. An optional 11.6-inch Multimedia Navigation is available on the Limited Trim.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: These features come standard on the Crosstrek, making it easy to integrate your smartphone.
- Driver Assistance: Subaru’s EyeSight suite comes standard on the Crosstrek, offering features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking.
- Technology Upgrades: Higher trims also include available navigation and a premium sound system.
Chevy Equinox:
- Infotainment System: The Equinox comes with a standard 11-inch digital driver cluster, and an 11.3-inch diagonal advanced color LCD display.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: These features are also standard, allowing seamless smartphone integration.
- Driver Assistance: The Equinox includes a suite of driver assistance features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist.
- Technology Upgrades: The Equinox offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on higher trims, adding convenience for those looking for a truly cable-free experience.
Which SUV Has the Smarter Tech?
When comparing the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek and Chevrolet Equinox, both SUVs bring strong tech offerings to the table—but they cater to different priorities.
The Crosstrek shines in the infotainment department with its available 11.6-inch touchscreen and standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking. Even the base trim features dual 7-inch displays, and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are standard across all models.
Meanwhile, the Equinox steps up with a standard 11-inch digital gauge cluster and an 11.3-inch central touchscreen, giving the cabin a sleek, modern feel. It also includes a robust set of driver assistance features and offers wireless smartphone integration, especially on higher trims, for added convenience.
If you're after a larger infotainment display and a strong focus on safety, the Crosstrek may be more your style. But if a more spacious rear seat and a streamlined, wireless tech setup are higher on your list, the Equinox could be the better pick. Both compact SUVs deliver plenty of value—it really comes down to what features matter most to you.
Safety Comes Standard for Peace of Mind
When you're driving in Wisconsin, safety is crucial. Whether you're commuting in Brookfield or enjoying a scenic drive near West Bend, having the right safety features can make all the difference. Both the Subaru Crosstrek and Chevy Equinox offer a range of advanced safety features. In fact, each vehicle comes with a suite of safety systems designed to give you confidence behind the wheel. Let’s explore how these two compact SUVs compare when it comes to keeping you and your passengers safe.
Standard Safety Features for Every Drive
Subaru Crosstrek:
- EyeSight Driver Assist Technology: This suite comes standard on every Crosstrek, including features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking.
- Subaru’s Starlink Safety and Security: Features like automatic collision notification and roadside assistance are available to help in emergency situations.
- Rearview Camera: This system helps you back out of parking spaces with ease and visibility.
- Active Safety Features: Blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert are available on higher trims.
Chevy Equinox:
- Chevrolet Safety Assist: This suite comes standard and includes forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and a following distance indicator.
- Rearview Camera: Like the Crosstrek, the Equinox also comes with a standard rearview camera for added security when reversing.
- Teen Driver Mode: This feature allows you to set speed limits and volume restrictions, perfect for families with new drivers.
- Driver Assistance Features: Lane change alert with side blind zone alert and rear cross-traffic alert are available on higher trims.
A Strong Focus on Safety
In a Crosstrek Equinox comparison, both SUVs provide strong safety features that give drivers peace of mind. The Crosstrek stands out with EyeSight, offering more advanced driver assistance as standard. Whether it's winter roads near Milwaukee or rural backroads around Shorewood, this suite helps prevent accidents before they happen.
Meanwhile, the Equinox offers a solid lineup of standard features with the Chevy Safety Assist package. While it doesn’t come with the same advanced tech as the Crosstrek, it still provides key features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist.
Both vehicles offer excellent protection, but if you’re seeking a subaru vs chevy SUV comparison, the Crosstrek gives a bit more coverage with its standard driver assistance technology. The Crosstrek is an excellent choice for those who prioritize safety and want peace of mind on every trip.
Frequently Asked Questions: Crosstrek vs. Equinox Comparison
How do the engine options and horsepower compare between the Crosstrek and Equinox?
Subaru Crosstrek:
- A 2.0-liter engine with 152 horsepower (Base trim).
- A 2.5-liter engine with 182 horsepower (Premium, Sport, Limited, and Wilderness trims).
Chevy Equinox:
- The Chevy Equinox features a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 175 horsepower.
Which SUV offers better fuel economy for daily commuting?
- Subaru Crosstrek offers an estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg city and 33 mpg highway.
- Chevy Equinox provides an estimated fuel economy of 26 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.
The Crosstrek has a slight edge in fuel economy, making it a better choice for daily commuting.
Are there differences in cargo space or passenger comfort that might sway buyers?
Subaru Crosstrek:
- Cargo space: 19.9 cubic feet with rear seats up, 54.7 cubic feet with rear seats folded down.
- Passenger comfort: Offers spacious seating and a comfortable ride, with well-designed interior features.
Chevy Equinox:
- Cargo space: 29.8 cubic feet with rear seats up, 63.5 cubic feet with rear seats folded down.
- Passenger comfort: More space for passengers, especially in the back seat, with a smooth ride.
The Equinox provides more cargo space, but the Crosstrek offers a more comfortable ride for those who need a balance of space and comfort.
How does each brand’s AWD system stack up in various road conditions?
Both Subaru and Chevrolet offer all-wheel drive options for their compact SUVs, but they approach it differently—and that makes a big difference depending on your driving environment.
Subaru Crosstrek comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive across all trims. This system is engineered for balanced power distribution and consistent traction, making it especially well-suited for challenging road conditions like snow, rain, gravel, or uneven terrain. Paired with higher ground clearance and Subaru’s X-MODE® (on select trims), the Crosstrek is built with all-weather, all-terrain performance in mind. It’s a go-to option for drivers facing harsh winters or unpaved roads.
Chevrolet Equinox, on the other hand, offers all-wheel drive as an option—it's not standard. The AWD system is responsive and provides added traction when needed, particularly in wet or slippery conditions. It's a practical choice for occasional snow or rain but doesn’t deliver the same level of off-road capability or consistency as Subaru’s always-on system. That said, it gives drivers the flexibility of better fuel economy when sticking with the standard front-wheel drive.
Bottom line
If you’re mostly driving on paved roads and want the option to upgrade for seasonal conditions, the Equinox’s available AWD is a solid, budget-conscious solution.
If you regularly face snow, off-road paths, or variable terrain, Subaru’s standard AWD system gives you year-round confidence.
Explore Your Options at Sommer's Subaru
When it comes to making your next vehicle decision, the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek offers versatility and capability, whether you're navigating snowy roads in Milwaukee or taking on an off-road adventure. If you're unsure which vehicle fits your needs best, Sommer's Subaru is here to help. Our team is ready to answer any questions and guide you through the process.
We invite drivers from Milwaukee, West Bend, Shorewood, and Brookfield to explore our wide selection of vehicles, including the Crosstrek. Whether you're looking for a vehicle built for adventure or want to know how to tackle your Subaru's TPMS warning light, we’ve got you covered.
Be sure to check out our other helpful resources, such as our guide on off-roading essentials for your next adventure or learn more about famous movies that featured Subaru vehicles. These articles are packed with tips that could help you make the most of your Subaru experience. Contact us today or visit Sommer's Subaru to take a closer look at the Crosstrek and find the perfect vehicle for you.
