A Complete Review of the Chevrolet Equinox

July 3rd, 2023 by

If you’re in the market for a new-to-you crossover SUV that’s reliable, roomy, and handles well, the Chevrolet Equinox could be the one for you. Here, we’ve rounded up everything you need to know about the Equinox — including model comparisons, safety and performance features, pricing, and how it compares to similar vehicles in its class — so you can be sure you’re making the right decision.

 

Table of Contents

Chevrolet Equinox Scorecard

Rated by our team of vehicle experts, this scorecard reflects the Equinox’s performance when compared to other compact SUVs.

Overall, the Equinox earned high marks for safety and reliability. However, we found it lacking in performance.

    • Interior – 7.2/10
    • Performance – 6.9/10
    • Safety – 8.9/10
    • Reliability – 9/10
    • Fuel economy – 7/10
    • Value – 7/10
    • Overall rating – 7.5/10

Pros and Cons of a Chevrolet Equinox

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The following chart provides an in-depth look at the pros and cons of each release, from 2017 to 2022.

Chevrolet Equinox Interior Features

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As is the case for other vehicles, features of the Chevy Equinox vary between model year and trim level. Features appearing in the following chart are a representation of what could be included.

It’s important to note that unless otherwise noted, this list of features is inclusive of previous years. For example, all features from the 2017 model year are included in 2018, 2018’s features appear in 2019 models, and so on.

Chevrolet Equinox Performance Features

Engines

The selection of available engines in the Equinox has fluctuated over the years. For 2017, two engines were on offer — a 2.4-liter I-4 rated option and a 3.6-liter V-6 rated model.

The period between 2018 and 2020 saw the widest range of available engines. During those years, buyers could choose between 1.5-liter turbo-four, 2.0-liter turbo-four, and 1.6-liter turbodiesel I-4 engines.

In 2021, Chevrolet decreased engine options from three to one. For models from this year and 2022, a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine was the only choice.

Gas Mileage

Fuel efficiency remained fairly consistent between 2017 and 2022. Vehicles equipped with gas engines and front wheel drive can expect to get anywhere from 25 to 28 miles per gallon in the city and 30 to 32 mpg on the highway.

Opting for all-wheel drive means that the average mpg will remain on the low end of the previous ranges, with drivers seeing up to 25 mpg when staying in the city and 30 mpg for highway driving.

Riding, Handling & Braking

On the road, the Equinox is both agreeable and easy to drive and casual drivers will most likely find the ride acceptable thanks to competent handling and precise steering. However, the area where this crossover loses points is in the ride. Driving over rough surfaces leads to some discomfort inside the cabin — especially when equipped with the optional 19-inch wheels.

Towing Capacity

The amount of weight your Equinox can tow depends on the model year. For 2017, 2021, and 2022, maximum towing capacity is 1,500 pounds. Models from 2018-2020 are capable of towing much larger loads and can handle up to 3,500 extra pounds when properly equipped.

Chevrolet Equinox Safety Features

In recent years, the Equinox has experienced something of an overhaul when it comes to safety features. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded 2019-2022 models a 5/5 safety rating (up from 4/5 for 2017 and 2018). Additionally, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the 2020 and 2021 models top safety picks.

A commitment to protecting drivers is also shown in the suite of safety features found in newer models. The lineup includes:

  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Front pedestrian braking
  • Lane keep assist with lane departure warning
  • Forward Collision alert
  • IntelliBeam
  • Following distance indicator

How Does the Chevrolet Equinox Rank?

Rankings vary from year to year, but here’s how the Equinox has stood out most recently:

  • The 2017 Chevy Equinox earned the number 2 spot on J.D. Power’s list of Best Compact SUVs of 2017
  • The 2018 Chevy Equinox was named a contender for Motor Trend’s SUV of the Year award
  • The 2018 Chevy Equinox also ranked number 9 on U.S. News & World Report’s list of Affordable Compact SUVs
  • The 2019 Chevy Equinox ranked number 3 on U.S. News & World Report’s list of Affordable Compact SUVs
  • The 2020 Chevy Equinox came in second on J.D. Power’s list of Best Compact SUVs of 2020
  • The 2021 Chevy Equinox ranked number 4 on J.D. Power’s list of Best Compact SUVs of 2021
  • The 2022 Chevy Equinox was the winner of S&P’s Automotive Loyalty Award in the Small Utility category

Chevrolet Equinox Model Comparison

Between 2017 and 2021, the Equinox remained essentially unchanged. The most notable update occurred in 2020, when a variety of driver assistance features — collectively referred to as Chevy Safety Assist — became standard.

For 2022, Chevrolet gave the Equinox a makeover, revisiting its trim levels in the process. Updates include the addition of the RS and replacing the L with the LS as the base model.

Is the Chevrolet Equinox a Good Vehicle?

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The Equinox is consistently recognized for its roomy interior, decent handling and reliability — all hallmarks of a good family vehicle.

However, if performance is a top consideration, you may want to steer clear. Many consider the Equinox to be underpowered and it loses some points for its lackluster engine and sluggish acceleration.

Should I Buy a Chevrolet Equinox?

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If you’re looking for a dependable crossover with ample safety features, the Equinox may be the vehicle for you. It’s a popular choice for families and was included on Parents Magazine’s list of Best Family Cars of 2022.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a small SUV that’s on the sporty side or one that’s a joy to drive, the Equinox may not be the best fit. Some alternatives that could fit the bill include the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Jeep Cherokee, Subaru Forester, or Nissan Rogue.

Cost of a Chevrolet Equinox

What you’ll pay for an Equinox depends on a few different factors. Model year, trim level, and whether the vehicle is used or new will all impact the purchase price.

For a pre-owned Equinox, prices can range from $16,000 at the lowest to upwards of $24,000.

The MSRP for a 2022 Equinox ranges from $27,695 for the base LS trim up to $32,895 for the top-tier Premier.

Chevrolet Equinox Insurance

Car insurance premiums vary based on a number of different factors. What you’ll pay to insure an Equinox is ultimately determined by:

  • Driver’s age, gender, and marital status
  • Driving record
  • Make, model, and year of the vehicle
  • Annual mileage
  • State requirements
  • Credit history
  • Where the vehicle is regularly parked
  • Vehicle’s safety features
  • Type of insurance coverage
  • Deductible

The good news? Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to save with popular auto discounts. These can include:

  • Safe driving records
  • Good student
  • New customer
  • Automatic payment
  • Anti-lock brakes and other safety features

According to Money Geek, it will cost you an average of $1,165 per year to insure a Chevrolet Equinox, compared to an average of $1,427 for all car models.

Chevrolet Equinox vs. the Competition

How does the Equinox compare to its competitors? When put head to head against two of the top performers in its class — the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 — the Equinox can’t keep up. Though it offers excellent reliability and safety features, it’s outpaced by the powerful and fuel efficient RAV4, and is lacking in comparison to the well-rounded CR-V.


Find Your Next Chevrolet Equinox With Merchants Auto

Think a new-to-you Equinox (or any type of compact SUV) could be the next car you drive home? We can help! Merchants Auto is the largest pre-owned dealership in New Hampshire and has been in operation for more than 60 years.

The inventory on our 26-acre lot is always changing. We have hundreds of vehicles to choose from with more than 30 different makes — including hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, pickups, sports cars, fuel-efficient models, compact cars, and work vans.

We strive to save our customers time and money, and our ultimate goal is to provide an enjoyable and hassle-free car buying experience.

Ready to get started? View our used Chevrolet Equinox inventory now!

Posted in Models, Used Cars