There are a lot of crossover compact SUVs out there these days, so we get why it might be tough for drivers to choose. Take the 2024 Chevy Equinox vs 2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, for example, as these two small models offer drivers big things in the way of convenience, style, and performance. They are both sleek and sporty, with a modern edge that makes them great for small families or solo drivers.
When shopping for a small SUV that fits your lifestyle, it’s easy to get overwhelmed when comparing even just two models like the Equinox and the Eclipse Cross. This is because, while these two vehicles might be similar in some ways, it’s the closer details that can really make or break your decision. Doing your homework on each model is a simple way to ensure you get the very best SUV for your needs.
To make things a little easier, we did a cross-comparison of the latest Equinox and Eclipse Cross models to see where they differ, where they are similar, and which one offers drivers the most bang for their buck.
The Performance of a Lifetime
If you get into the right vehicle, every drive has the potential to be unforgettable. The same can be true if you get the wrong vehicle, only it’s an unforgettable drive for all the wrong reasons. When shopping for your next SUV, make sure you get the right level of power so you have the confidence you need if you happen to hit a rough patch in the road.
Let’s start with the 2024 Chevy Equinox. This small five-seater SUV has a practical 1.5L turbocharged engine. Drivers have the option to upgrade to all-wheel drive for increased traction and control on slippery roads or rough terrain. Towing comes in at 1,500 lbs, which is great for bringing along whatever your adventure requires, and a fuel economy of 26/31 MPG city/hwy helps you save with every mile you travel.
The latest 2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross also comes standard with a 1.5L engine for plenty of everyday convenience. Optional all-wheel drive can give you increased confidence when tackling a tough situation, but a fuel economy of 25/28 MPG city/hwy means the Eclipse Cross comes up a little short compared to the Equinox.
Cabin Comfort & Convenience
It’s important to get into a great SUV that has the potential to do what you need it to do, whether it’s seating all five members of your party or towing a small trailer with your camping gear. The 2024 Chevy Equinox shows why it’s one of this automaker’s top sellers and why it’s one of the top choices for drivers nationwide.
The 2024 Equinox was designed with families in mind. Its flexible seating options and durable design add increased convenience to your day. The second row offers split 60/40 seating that folds flat to reveal a max cargo space of over 60 cu.ft. Additional hidden storage space under the floor not only provides more room but also helps increase security when you need it: store safety or first aid kits, valuables, or tools down below so they are always on hand when they need them the most.
The interior of the newest Equinox is sleek and straightforward. If copious gadgets can leave you feeling a little overwhelmed, you’ll enjoy the Equinox’s streamlined dash that just gives you the essentials in a clear manner. Connecting and controlling your Equinox will feel like second nature, thanks to the latest driver assistance technology and safety features delivered right to your fingertips. It’s never been easier to stay in control and keep your eyes on the road.
As for comfort, drivers will be surprised at the soft-touch materials throughout the Equinox’s cabin that add nicety to the interior yet still manage to keep everyone comfortable. Five different trim options let you upgrade your Equinox to meet your taste; get the essentials with the LS or unlock all the creature comforts and more with the high-end Premier.
The Eclipse Cross does a good job of offering a comfortable and modern cabin for the price point. Ample legroom and headroom give all five passengers plenty of room to stretch out and relax. If you need additional space, fold down the second row and enjoy the maximum cargo space of 50.1 cu.ft. It’s important to note this is less than the Equinox’s 63.9 cu.ft. of max cargo space; the Equinox also offers additional underfloor space, while the Eclipse Cross does not.
Drivers can choose from six different trim options to get the perfect Eclipse Cross for their tastes. The entry-level ES does a good job of offering a range of essentials paired with modern styling, while the upscale SEL Touring gives you additional comfort and convenience features. Thanks to its modern styling, the Eclipse Cross is great at offering user-friendly tech with reliable performance, so no matter the trim level, drivers can relax and know they are in good hands.
While both vehicles excel at giving drivers a lot for their money, we are more impressed with the flexibility the Equinox brings to cargo space and storage. This thoughtful design can make loading up boxes, gear, groceries, luggage, or equipment that much easier.
Safety & Infotainment Tech
Infotainment and safety systems can sometimes be the tipping point for prospective drivers; if a vehicle lacks the latest cabin tech or doesn’t come with a great suite of driver assistance features, it might make drivers think again. Luckily for us, Chevy always keeps these in mind when designing the latest models, and the 2024 Equinox is loaded with Chevy Safety Assist, a suite of six advanced features that have you covered on all sides.
Included on the Equinox is Forward Collision Alert with Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Front Pedestrian Braking, Following Distance Indicator, IntelliBeam High Beam Assist, Rear Seat Reminder, and an HD Rear Vision Camera. The Equinox also comes standard with Chevy’s Teen Driver mode, which was designed to help your young driver develop safe habits behind the wheel.
Looking at the Cross Eclipse, we’re not as impressed. Most systems are available only as add-ons—like Blind Sport Warning with Lane Change Assist or a multi-view camera—but it’s worth noting that systems like Automatic Emergency Braking come standard.
When it comes to tech, the Equinox offers a better selection of standard safety features. In regards to tech for the interior, we can quickly see the Equinox was made to please with a user-friendly infotainment screen that makes it simple for drivers to connect their smartphones to access favorite apps, playlists, and messages. The standard 7.0-inch screen makes it easy to tap, scroll, and swipe for a customized display that offers you an exceptional stress-free experience.
The Eclipse Cross also offers a standard 7.0-inch touchscreen that allows drivers to sync their smartphones to create a customized driver experience with playlists and apps while also staying connected. Both the Equinox and the Eclipse Cross have the option for drivers to upgrade their user experience with Amazon Alexa; this smart technology means drivers can add things to their shopping lists, check on an order, or connect with compatible at-home technology.
When it comes to safety, we feel the Equinox comes out ahead because of standard tech like Teen Driver mode. But when it comes to standard cabin tech, the two SUVs feel nearly evenly matched.
It’s Time to Decide…
Now that we’ve looked over the basics of the 2024 Chevy Equinox and the 2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, which would we choose? Let’s recap… The Equinox and the Eclipse Cross both offer a fresh, sporty exterior that makes them eye-catching, a 1.5L engine that makes them fun to drive, optional AWD, and a towing potential of 1,500 lbs.
It’s on the inside that the Equinox really excels with more cargo space and storage potential thanks to its additional underfloor cubby design that gives drivers more flexibility when it comes to organization. Likewise, the Eclipse Cross lacks the abundance of standard driver assistance features that the Equinox has. Still, both models do a great job of offering an updated infotainment system that is easy for drivers to connect to and make the most of their daily drive.
We feel the clear winner is the Equinox, which gives the driver a lot of value despite being just a hair more (at $26,600) than the Eclipse Cross (at $26,345). We can see where the extra few dozen bucks go, and we feel the Equinox is a great buy for the money.
There is no right or wrong choice when it comes to picking out your next ride; there is only what works for you and what doesn’t. Personally, we think that, if you’re looking to upgrade your SUV this year, it’s tough to go past the 2024 Equinox. But the best way to decide is to test drive one and experience it for yourself.
