Consistently one of the top-selling compact SUVs, the Chevrolet Equinox has a long history of providing dependable transportation at a reasonable price. Over its history, the Equinox has offered several engine choices, including a fuel-efficient diesel and powerful V6, the latter allowing it to tow up to 3,500 pounds. Lots of room for passengers and good safety scores add to the Equinox’s appeal, with the latest version also offering GM’s best high-tech features.
Chevrolet Equinox Generations
Chevrolet Equinox (4th Generation: 2025 - Current)
Key Improvements: The newest Chevrolet Equinox surpasses the previous generation in style, technology, and comfort. Riding on a slightly longer platform, the Equinox sees modest gains in interior volume, but the 29.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second-row seat falls short of the segment's best-sellers. However, when it comes to passenger space, both rows offer generous accommodations. The same 175-horsepower 1.5-liter turbocharged engine provides power, although it now runs through a more efficient continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) on front-drive models.
The fundamental difference between the two generations is found in the cabin. The driver views all instrumentation on an 11-inch screen, while the infotainment and other features appear on an 11.3-inch screen. High-tech features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto carry over from the third generation, now accompanied by Google built-in. The standard driver-assist suite expands to include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, rear cross-traffic braking, and rear park assist. There’s more standard equipment, too, such as heated front seats and options like a surround vision camera and traffic sign recognition.
Chevrolet Equinox (3rd Generation: 2018 - 2024)
Key Improvements: The third-generation Equinox shrinks slightly but offers the same interior space and cargo volume. It also jettisons the V6 option, replacing it and the old 2.4-liter engine with a choice of two turbocharged 4-cylinder engines and one diesel. Midway through its run, the more powerful turbo engine gets dropped, taking Equinox's 3,500-pound tow rating with it. There are more safety systems now, namely automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, a safety alert seat, and rear cross-traffic detection. The infotainment system adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, viewed through a quick-responding 7- or 8-inch touchscreen. Other improvements include a hands-free power liftgate, LED headlights, a surround-view monitor, and 19-inch wheels.
Model Updates: Adaptive cruise control and pedestrian detection braking join the roster in 2019, with automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and auto high-beams made standard for 2020. Chevy drops the diesel engine this year, followed by the 2.0-liter turbo in 2021. 2022 sees only modest changes but adds a button to kill the engine start/stop system.
Chevrolet Equinox (2nd Generation: 2010 - 2017)
Key Improvements: The second-generation Equinox offers more refinement, features, and powertrain choices. Its styling goes from dowdy to demure. New equipment includes a memory driver’s seat, remote start with climate presets, front seat side-impact airbags, XM satellite radio, and a power liftgate. A new 4-cylinder engine provides impressive fuel economy, up to 26 mpg in combined city/highway driving. Two different V6 engines are offered during this time, along with modern driver assists like forward collision and lane departure warning.
Model Updates: 2012 sees the addition of blind-spot mirrors on all trims. A new 7-inch MyLink color touchscreen comes online, and Bluetooth is now standard. For 2013, a new 3.6-liter V6 with 301 hp replaces the previous 3.0-liter. Forward collision warning and lane departure warning join the options list, along with a rear seat DVD entertainment center and a power-adjustable passenger seat. 2016 sees a mild refresh. New available features include a blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic detection.
Chevrolet Equinox (1st Generation: 2005 - 2009)
The first Equinox offers class-leading interior room, a choice of two V6 engines, and impressive towing capability. A sliding second-row seat allows for more cargo or passenger space, while the flat-folding front passenger seat allows for loading longer items. Options for this generation include side curtain airbags, heated front seats, and DVD navigation.
Chevrolet Equinox Buying Tips
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Chevrolet Equinox FAQs
Is the Chevrolet Equinox a Good SUV?
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