The Chevrolet Equinox is an impressive contender in the compact crossover/SUV segment. It exists on a shared platform with the GMC Terrain and Buick Envision while mirroring a general aesthetic with both the Chevy Traverse and the latest Malibu.
The Equinox benefits from three available engines that are powerful and efficient, each making use of variable valve timing, direct injection and even diesel technology. A standard 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder makes an impressive 170 horsepower and delivers 32 mpg on the highway. There is also an optional 2.0L turbocharged engine, which is capable of 252 horsepower and with an estimated 29 mpg on the highway. GM has also introduced a 1.6L inline four diesel that makes 240 foot-pounds of torque through a 6-speed automatic transmission for an estimated 39 mpg. Front-wheel drive is the standard drivetrain, but all-wheel drive is available.
Storage areas are abundant and include an oversized glovebox, a closed storage bin in the instrument panel above the center stack and a closed storage bin under the center armrest that is large enough for a laptop computer.
Standard equipment on all trims includes 17-inch painted aluminum wheels, Stabilitrak stability control, traction control, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes, ten air bags, an anti-theft system, an XM satellite radio-ready system, iPod and MP3 capability, Bluetooth and OnStar with 4G LTE and Wi-Fi hotspot readiness. Power windows, door locks, remote keyless entry, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, as well as power mirrors and automatic headlamps round out the generous standards list.
Optional equipment on the LS trim includes deep-tinted glass and a leather wrapped steering wheel. The LT trim features HID headlights, power driver seat, steering wheel audio controls, a remote starter system and a power sunroof as optional equipment. A blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert is also available.
The top-of-the-line Premier trim includes a power lift gate, Bose speaker system and heated leather seats. With all this standard equipment, the Premier can also be outfitted with a navigation system, a power sunroof and 18 or 19-inch machine aluminum wheels.
A Confidence and Convenience Package II adds Low-Speed Forward Automatic Braking, heated steering wheel, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning as well as Forward Collision Alert, Surround Vision and IntelliBeam headlights.
Efficient Engine Offerings
Sharp Styling Inside And Out
Well-equipped Standard Features
The Chevrolet Equinox gets several small changes for the 2019 model year. Several new colors have been added, including two new blues. Chevrolet also introduces a "Lights and Bright" package offered on the 1LT, which includes 19-inch wheels, LED headlights and taillights. Inside, a new multi-color driver information display replaces the monochrome one from last year's model.
Starting at around $25,000, the 2019 Chevy Equinox is a very affordable option that rivals Honda's CR-V and the Ford Escape. The interior features a 7-inch screen infotainment system, high tech Bluetooth connectivity features and sophisticated, classy appearance touches to make it look much more expensive than it is. With available turbocharged power or economical diesel options under the hood, the Equinox makes for an attractive family and cargo hauler.
