2021 Chevrolet Equinox Review: Due For A Makeover
There are currently around 28 compact crossovers and SUVs on sale in the USA and almost zero brand loyalty even for an all-American nameplate like the Chevy Equinox. If a manufacturer doesn't update its product regularly, savvy buyers move onto its more contemporary competitors. A significantly facelifted Equinox is coming to the US in the third quarter, but, for now, the old car still has to do the heavy lifting. Unfortunately, it has to do so with one hand tied behind its back, as the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-pot has been dropped from the range. At least the Equinox still comes with a generous list of comfort and safety features.
What's the Price of the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox?
The Chevrolet Equinox is one of the more affordable offerings in the small SUV segment. The base L has an MSRP of $23,800, while the LS retails for $26,300. The LT carries a base price of $27,500, while the top-spec Premier costs $31,400. Adding AWD to the LS, LT and Premier adds $1,600 to the bill. These Chevrolet prices exclude the destination charge of $1,195.
Handling and Driving Impressions
The underwhelming four-pot is even sadder when you factor the driving experience into the equation. The Equinox handles much better than Chevrolet's other SUVs. The steering is light and direct at low speeds, but the weight increases as the needle rises. It gives you some semblance of feedback, making it a fun car to engage with.
On the open road, it's more of the same. The Equinox corners confidently, and long, open stretches are dealt with comfortably. One note on the steering, however: The turning circle is wider than you'd expect. It may take some time to get accustomed to but this doesn't subtract from the overall driving experience. The brakes are powerful and provide the perfect amount of resistance via the pedal.
For a car that handles corners so well, the Equinox is surprisingly capable of smoothing out bumpy surfaces. Chevrolet could have included more sound-dampening, as wind, road, and strained engine noises regularly interrupt an otherwise serene cabin.
Verdict: Is the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox A Good car?
The Chevrolet Equinox would rather blend into the background than stand out in a crowd. This is perfectly fine, as there are many out there who admire this quality. With a host of standard driver-assistance systems, a decent infotainment suite, and comfortable seats, the Equinox ticks several boxes. It's frugal as well, but not quite so much as the competition.
Speaking of rivals, we have to point out that while the Chevy handles well, it's not as comfortable as the Honda CR-V, nor as sporty as the Mazda CX-5. It occupies a small space right in the middle of those polar opposites. It lacks the spaciousness of both, but it's hard to ignore its safety features, especially since this is a family vehicle.
Even with the old powerful 2.0-liter engine, the Chevy wasn't a particularly stunning all-rounder. Now that only the underpowered engine is available, it's even harder to recommend. Considering how much competition it has in a very saturated market, the Equinox simply doesn't shine bright enough in any one category to make it stand out.
It's also worth pointing out that a heavily revised, new-faced Chevy Equinox is on the way, so if you purchase one now, it will be outdated by the third quarter. Either hang on or buy something else.
What Chevrolet Equinox SUV Model Should I Buy?
It's a tough call. Our previous recommendation was to avoid the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine and go for a mid-spec LT with a 2.0-liter engine. That option no longer exists, so the Equinox's main selling point is value for money. With that in mind, we'd opt for the LS and include the Convenience Pack. This Equinox will cost you $27,085 MSRP. The LT doesn't add all that much extra and the Premier is significantly more expensive. If value for money isn't a concern, we recommend waiting a few months for the powerful 2.0-liter engine to return to the Equinox.
2021 Chevrolet Equinox Comparisons
2021 Chevrolet Equinox vs Ford Escape
The Ford Escape and Chevrolet Equinox suffer from the same problems. Both are powered by underwhelming turbocharged engines and have low-quality interiors. The Ford looks edgier, but the Equinox will likely age better thanks to its subtle design.
From there on, the Ford scores top marks. The interior may be below par in certain places, but the touchscreen infotainment system is much better. The Escape also matches the Equinox's standard safety features, and it has more cargo capacity. The Escape's base engine might be underwhelming, but you will notice the difference at the pumps. With EPA-estimated figures of 27/33/30 mpg city/highway/combined, the 1.5-liter turbocharged triple is way ahead of Chevy's offering.
The Ford has some issues, but at the end of the day, it has fewer problems than the Equinox, and is a better all-around offering.
2021 Chevrolet Equinox vs Chevrolet Traverse
The Chevrolet Traverse might seem like an odd comparison considering how large it is, but entry-level prices for the Traverse start where the Equinox range ends. The Traverse offers a lot more interior space and a 3.6-liter naturally aspirated V6 for better performance. It's going to consume a lot more gas than the Equinox, but it will be worth it. Spec for spec, the Traverse feels plusher. From base upward, you get a nice infotainment system and loads of driver-assistance features. If, however, you want the most luxurious Traverse, you need to part with at least $50,000. If you need more room, the Traverse beats the Equinox, but the opposite is true if you're economically minded.