The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox has carved its niche as the second best-selling Chevrolet vehicle, right behind the mighty Silverado pickup truck. However, this popularity isn’t solely attributed to being a groundbreaking choice. Rather, it’s the Equinox’s widespread availability and budget-friendly pricing that have earned it a loyal following. With a fully-loaded version starting at just over $33,000, it significantly undercuts some of its segment rivals like the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-50, which can easily breach the $40,000 mark. The Equinox, despite its age, offers a reliable, practical, and affordable option for SUV enthusiasts.
What’s New in 2024 Enhancements?
For the 2024 model year, the Equinox doesn’t see any revolutionary changes, but it remains a compelling choice for those in search of an economical SUV. While the gas-powered models now offer two new metallic paint colors – Riptide Blue and Lakeshore Blue – there’s also an update to the Driver Confidence II package. This package, which now includes blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, is available for the base LS trim at a reasonable $395, making safety more accessible to buyers. Previously, it was priced at $195 for the LS trim and included only rear parking sensors.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The Equinox lineup caters to various preferences, but the mid-range RS model strikes a fine balance. Equipped with features like blind-spot monitoring, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a power liftgate, rear cross-traffic alert, and remote start, the RS is a well-rounded choice. While you can attain similar amenities with an LT model by adding the Confidence and Convenience packages, the RS’s distinctive darkened trim and overall package justify the incremental cost.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Equinox comes equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which, despite its underwhelming performance, is the sole power offering for this vehicle. With 175 horsepower, the engine struggles, especially when coupled with the optional all-wheel-drive system, necessitating a firm push on the pedal to achieve higher speeds on highways. Its six-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, prioritizing fuel economy over power, which makes it somewhat hesitant to downshift for that extra thrust. During our test of the RS trim Equinox with all-wheel drive, it took 8.0 seconds to hit the 60 mph mark. It’s a comfortable and manageable drive with competent handling, marked by accurate and responsive steering. However, the ride quality can be jarring at times, especially with the optional 19-inch wheels (as the standard size is 17 inches), making rough roads convey some discomfort into the cabin. Additionally, the Equinox displays an impressive towing capacity of up to 3500 pounds.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The Equinox maintains a respectable balance between fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. It features an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Inside the cabin, a well-arranged interior constructed from durable materials ensures comfort for both front and rear passengers. However, to unlock additional interior luxuries, you might need to opt for optional equipment.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Equinox boasts a well-crafted and robustly assembled cabin. Both front and rear seat passengers can revel in the comfort of the spacious interior, equipped with amenities that enhance longer journeys. The cabin offers ample cupholders, though most interior luxuries are optional for LT models or standard for RS and Premier models. While some competitors might offer more space behind the rear seats, we managed to easily fit eight carry-on suitcases. Besides the spacious center-console storage bin, other cabin storage in the Equinox is relatively standard.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Featuring a 7.0-inch touchscreen (with an optional 8.0-inch unit), the Equinox exhibits Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment system, known for its user-friendly interface and swift responsiveness. Standard inclusions consist of Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth phone and audio streaming, USB connectivity, and an auxiliary input jack. Moreover, every Equinox model offers a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
While the Equinox earned a five-star rating from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), it didn’t secure the title of Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Notably, it comes equipped with an array of both standard and optional driver-assistance technologies. Key safety elements include standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking, standard lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and the availability of adaptive cruise control.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Chevy’s basic warranty is just that—basic, comparable to its competitors. However, brands like Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson offer more extended and significant protection plans. As a pleasant bonus, Chevrolet provides one free dealer maintenance visit in the first year of ownership.
- A limited warranty covering three years or 36,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covering five years or 60,000 miles
- First visit complimentary maintenance coverage
Specifications
Here are the complete specifications of the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox:
| Name | Specifications |
| Vehicle Type and Pricing | The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox RS AWD is a 5-passenger, 4-door wagon with a front-engine, all-wheel-drive configuration.
Pricing is set at a Base of $33,695 and an As-Tested value of $38,010, including optional packages like RS Leather, a power sunroof, and a Safety and Infotainment package.
|
| Engine and Transmission | Features a turbocharged, intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4 engine with an aluminum block and head and direct fuel injection.
The engine generates 175 hp at 5600 rpm and 203 lb-ft of torque at 2000 rpm, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. |
| Chassis and Dimensions | Suspension: struts at the front, multilink setup at the rear.
Brakes: 11.8-inch vented disc at the front, 11.3-inch disc at the rear, with 235/50R-19 99H M+S TPC 3161MS tires. Dimensions: 107.3-inch wheelbase, 183.1-inch length, 72.6-inch width, and 65.4-inch height. Interior volumes: 52/47 ft3 passenger and 64/30 ft3 cargo behind front/rear seats. |
| Test Performance | Achieved a 0-60 mph acceleration in 8.0 seconds, covering a quarter-mile in 16.3 seconds at 85 mph.
Assessed for rolling start, braking, roadholding, and top gear speeds, demonstrating versatile performance. |
| Fuel Economy | EPA-rated at 26 mpg combined, 24 mpg city, and 30 mpg highway, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. |
Conclusion
In a fiercely competitive compact SUV segment, the Chevrolet Equinox might not boast revolutionary features or cutting-edge design, but its reliability, affordability, and widespread availability make it a reassuring option for buyers seeking a dependable and budget-friendly compact SUV.
