Summary
The Chevrolet Equinox is a mid-size SUV that has been consistently rated with high safety and reliability ratings. With plenty of legroom and cargo space, the Chevrolet Equinox is a smart choice for a growing family. Enjoy a wealth of active safety features on higher trim levels, and choose from three different engine types, including diesel. For advanced safety options, we encourage you to test drive higher trim levels, as they come loaded with fancier trappings that many drivers expect from their modern vehicles.
Safety
Driver and passenger airbags are standard on all trim models, as well as brake assist—which helps you brake faster in emergencies—and the rearview camera, which has been standard on all base models since 2017. Advanced active safety features are available on higher trims, so be prepared to pay a premium for these safety specs. High-end safety features include:
- Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert to help you avoid colliding into cars that are in your blind spot
- Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, which alerts you when your car is veering out of the lane, and which also stabilizes your car
- Low Speed Forward Automatic Braking, which automatically applies the brakes at low speeds if a front-end collision situation is detected.
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert to help you back out of parking spaces
All the above features have gradually become available since 2016.
Interior
The interior of the Chevrolet Equinox comes with versatile rear seating, power windows and air conditioning. Interior cargo shades have been an available add-on for over 10 years, which many families appreciate for their little ones. A sun/moonroof is an optional feature on all base models and standard on higher trim levels. The rear headrests and tiny side rear window in models before 2018 significantly lower visibility. However, the 2018 model refresh does mitigate some of that.
Technology
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto became available in 2018. The Chevrolet's user-friendly MyLink Infotainment system debuted in 2012—the same year that the rear-seating DVD entertainment system disappeared. MyLink includes the following systems:
- AM/FM/satellite radio
- GPS navigation
- Auxiliary jack
- Bluetooth connectivity
- USB ports
- MP3 Player
Space
For a mid-size SUV, the Chevrolet Equinox is spacious in both the front and back seat, and the trunk is average for its class. The rear seats are adjustable to allow more space for adults to slide in or to add more room for cargo in the trunk.
Comfort
The V6 engine has been available since 2013. There are three engine options to choose from, the diesel engine being a popular choice. All-wheel drive is also available. Many drivers claim that the base model's 1.5 L engine lacks some oomph. Nevertheless, the Chevrolet Equinox is a smooth and quiet ride, which makes it pretty spot on for a family vehicle.
