2023 Mazda CX-9 vs. 2023 Chevrolet Equinox Comparison: See Which Fits Your Lifestyle Best

The 2023 Mazda CX-9 and the 2023 Chevy Equinox are two of the most popular crossover SUV options for American consumers, each presenting drivers with a comprehensive list of features and benefits that make them worth considering.

So which crossover is the best choice for you? While several factors can influence this choice, we have put together a brief comparison of the Mazda CX-9 versus the Chevy Equinox to help start the conversation.

Performance

On the outside, the Mazda CX-9 and Chevy Equinox may seem like similar SUVs, but one of the largest differences is found under the hood.

The CX-9’s 2.5-liter turbocharged engine offers up to 227 net horsepower (hp), compared to the 175 hp of the Equinox’s 1.5-liter engine. The difference, in terms of each vehicle’s performance, is dramatic.

The Equinox offers a fuel economy of 26 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, although some reviews have called it weak for its class — especially compared to the performance of the CX-9.

The 2023 Mazda CX-9 offers a fuel economy of 20 mpg city/26 mpg highway, which isn’t enough of a difference to make some consumers opt for lesser performance. The difference in fuel economy is logical considering the difference in size. The CX-9 is a larger vehicle in every way, with the frame to support its superior performance.

Interior and Style

Another dramatic difference between the 2023 Mazda CX-9 and 2023 Chevy Equinox is apparent as soon as drivers open the door — the CX-9 is simply bigger.

As the largest vehicle in Mazda’s North American fleet, the CX-9 offers three rows of seating for up to seven adults and a cargo capacity of up to 71.2 cubic feet. The Equinox only has two rows of seats for five people, and its maximum cargo capacity comes in at 63.9 cubic feet.

The style of each vehicle’s interior is also quite different. While both SUVs are well-appointed, the CX-9 takes advantage of one of Mazda’s signature features: interior luxury.

Like other members of the 2023 Mazda family of vehicles, the interior design of the CX-9 is infused with the KODO: Soul of Motion philosophy which merges drivers with their vehicles. Intuitive controls, including small luxuries like a leather wrapped steering wheel and standard front heated seats, work to create a driving experience that feels natural.

Most of what the Equinox has to offer in terms of luxuries are add-ons or reserved for the higher trim levels, but they include appealing features like dual zone climate control and an eight-way power front passenger seat.

Safety

When it comes to safety, both crossover SUVs are incredibly reliable, with each earning a five-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). However, one of the main differences between the CX-9 and the Equinox is in the standard safety features offered at all trim levels, as compared to those that are available as an option only.

Specifically, all Mazda CX-9 trims — there are five total — include top safety features such as brake support with day and nighttime pedestrian detection, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warnings and lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trim levels also offer advanced safety features such as a 360-degree view monitor and driver attention alert.

Similarly, the Equinox offers an automatic braking system with pedestrian detection and lane departure warnings as standard features. However, features like adaptive cruise control and parking assistance are only available for a higher price, either as an add-on package or as part of a higher-level trim.

Technology

When it comes to top-level tech, both the Mazda CX-9 and the Chevy Equinox rise to the challenge; however, this is another case where the larger size of the CX-9 adds up to some bigger benefits.

For example, the standard touchscreen display in the CX-9 is 10.3 inches. The Chevy Equinox offers a 7-inch display with an option to upgrade to 8 inches. Both displays are easy to use and include modern touches such as Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, USB ports, and in-cabin Wi-Fi capabilities.

Both Mazda and Chevy offer a connected services app with their vehicles, but options such as remote start, a power liftgate, and universal garage door opener come standard on the CX-9.

Mazda CX-9 vs. Chevy Equinox: Which Offers the Best Value for the Money

Although a variety of factors make the Mazda CX-9 stand out from the Chevy Equinox, perhaps the most immediate is its price. As a mid-size compact crossover SUV, the CX-9 comes with a price tag around $38,500, on average. As a smaller, compact crossover SUV, the Chevy Equinox has an average cost of around $27,000, but that lower price comes at a cost — a significant gap in functionality and power.

The list of standard features available on all five trims of the CX-9 is extensive and notably includes a sunroof/moon roof, adaptive cruise control, fog lamps, power liftgate, rain-sensing windshield wipers, electrochromic rearview mirror, and third row of seating. None of these options are even available on the Equinox.

So, while the true value of a vehicle is in the eye of its driver, the many additional features offered by the CX-9 seem to compensate for its higher price. For drivers looking for a family-sized vehicle with power, technology, and style at a reasonable price for its class, the midsized CX-9 is hard to beat. The Equinox is best suited for drivers looking for a smaller vehicle with fewer luxuries and additions.

Test Drive a Mazda CX-9 at DePaula Mazda Today

Choosing to buy the Mazda CX-9 versus the Chevy Equinox is not always straightforward. Depending on a driver’s needs and budget, a variety of factors can make a difference. However, before making either choice, it’s important to feel the experience of driving both vehicles. Taking a test drive is essential.

To make that happen or to learn more about what the Mazda CX-9 has to offer, contact us at DePaula Mazda in Albany, New York, today to discuss our expansive inventory and schedule a test drive.