If you’re considering a compact SUV and comparing the 2025 Chevy Equinox and Kia Sportage, you’ve got two strong contenders to choose from. Both offer roomy cabins, affordability, and great gas mileage, but each one has its own edge. Let’s break their many features in this head-to-head battle, so you can make the best choice!
Key Takeaways
- The 2025 Equinox is priced from $29,995 to $34,395, while the 2025 Sportage ranges from $28,785 to $39,685 (as of May 22, 2025).
- With more torque on tap, the Equinox does a better job transferring engine power to its wheels.
- Sportage leads in towing capacity, but remember, compact SUVs aren’t exactly known for their trailering chops.
Which Compact SUV Has the Stronger Powertrain: 2025 Chevy Equinox
The Equinox packs a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 175 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque (or 203 lb-ft with all-wheel drive). It mates with a CVT for front-wheel drive and an 8-speed automatic with all-wheel drive.
The 2025 Sportage runs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder cranking out 187 horses and 178 lb-ft of torque. Like the Equinox, it uses an 8-speed automatic and comes with either front- or all-wheel drive. Even though the Sportage has a bit more horsepower, the Equinox’s higher torque gives it a leg up when it comes to real-world delivery.
As for towing, the Equinox tops out at 1,500 pounds when properly equipped. The Sportage? It can handle up to 2,500 pounds with the right configuration.
Which Compact SUV Gets Better Gas Mileage: 2025 Chevy Equinox
In this 2025 Chevy Equinox vs Kia Sportage fuel economy comparison, the Equinox pulls ahead. With four-wheel drive, it gets 26 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 27 combined. With all-wheel drive, it manages 24 mpg city, 29 highway, and 26 combined.
The Sportage isn’t far behind, but not quite as efficient. Four-wheel drive models get 25 mpg city and 32 highway, while all-wheel drive versions dip to 23 mpg city and 28 highway.
Which Compact SUV Offers More Trims: 2025 Kia Sportage
The Equinox is budget-friendly and easy to shop. It comes in three trims:
- LT: $29,995
- ACTIV: $34,395
- RS: $34,395
The Sportage lineup is more diverse, with a wider range of price points:
- LX: $28,785
- EX: $30,885
- X-Line: $33,685
- SX: $34,385
- SX-Prestige: $36,385
Which Compact SUV Has More Space? It's a Tie
Cargo space goes to the Sportage, offering 39.6 cubic feet behind the second row and up to 74.1 cubic feet with the seats folded.
The Equinox isn’t far behind and actually offers more room for people. You’ll get 104.3 cubic feet of passenger space and 63.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats down. That’s 2.3 more cubic feet of overall passenger volume than the Sportage. Plus, it’s got a slight lead in front headroom (0.4 inches), front shoulder room (0.2 inches), and rear shoulder room (0.2 inches).
Which Compact SUV Should You Choose: 2025 Chevy Equinox
Sure, the Sportage offers more trims and better towing numbers, but if you’re after a more spacious cabin for all occupants and better torque, the 2025 Chevy Equinox stands out. Come check it out in person—you might find it that checks all your boxes.