I've been impressed with Ford lately...
I'd highly suggest test driving them both, IMO the Ford is a smoother ride, better interior (and exterior for that matter) than chevy. not saying just escape vs eqiunox, more generally as I have family and freinds that have newer of each... never been in a equinox.. mother has a trail blazer think thats what it is, it's whatever the quinox replaced. She has had a ton of trouble with it. Hasn't hit a 100k yet either
looking at 2012 models with under 40,000 miles
those highlanders are expensive
15000-20000 cash