Though the Equinox has long been one of Chevrolet’s top-selling non-truck models, it often felt like the neglected middle child of the lineup. After a lackluster refresh in 2018, it seemed destined to be remembered nothing short as merely a tortured rental car.  

The Change it Needed 

Thankfully, this perception has changed significantly with the latest model, which has undergone a comprehensive redesign that gives it a sturdier, truck-like presence. This shift is particularly timely considering Chevrolet’s decision to cease sedan production—sedans are simply out of vogue. The new Equinox draws design cues from the Chevrolet Traverse, moving away from its previously awkward front end to a more refined and attractive exterior. The introduction of the Activ trim adds a rugged flair, featuring 17-inch wheels with knobby all-terrain tires and a bold dark chrome grille. However, I personally find the two-tone blue with a white roof to be less appealing, as it conveys a cartoonish juvenile aesthetic. Maybe that just a telling sign that I’m getting old.  

Gettin’ Klassy 

Inside, the Equinox showcases even more significant enhancements. The interior design has been elevated, again, taking inspiration from the Traverse but in a more compact package. The Activ trim we examined features a striking Maple Sugar interior, accented with suede inserts and black faux leather trimming on the seats, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. While the overall size remains similar to the previous generation, the Equinox has gained nearly two and a half inches in width, offering more comfort. 

Technological improvements are also noteworthy. The infotainment system now boasts a generous 11.3-inch touchscreen that is both intuitive and user-friendly, operating on GM’s latest Google-based platform. This system includes standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a semi-configurable 11-inch instrument cluster, both featuring crisp, high-resolution displays. Kudos to Chevrolet for retaining physical controls for climate and audio settings, which enhances usability while driving. 

LIKES: Attractive styling, well-appointed interior, decent handling characteristics, attractively priced. 

Notably, the Equinox lacks General Motors’ latest tech marvel, the SuperCruise system. Instead, it relies on a conventional adaptive cruise control system that performs well, offering smooth stop-and-go transitions and effective lane assist. Chevrolet has also improved the forward collision warning system, helping to ease concerns about potential collisions, even at a distance. 

Enough in its Get-A-Long 

Under the hood, the Equinox retains the familiar 1.5-liter turbocharged engine from the previous generation, which serves as the sole engine option—apart from the EV variant, which is essentially a completely different vehicle. Fortunately, the outdated six-speed automatic transmission has been replaced. Front-wheel-drive models now feature a new stepped continuously variable transmission, while all-wheel-drive models come with an 8-speed automatic, as expected, for an added cost of$2,000.  

With 175 horsepower, the Equinox offers sufficient acceleration for daily driving. The all-wheel-drive system boosts torque output from 184 lb-ft to 203 lb-ft, providing a bit more flexibility. While we didn’t test the front-wheel-drive version, it’s unlikely there is a significant difference in, considering it took nearly 9 seconds to reach 60 mph. Initial acceleration feels responsive and lively, but as the RPMs exceed 4,000, the turbocharger seems to lose its vigor, like a fat man on a uphill treadmill. And, while the transmission operates smoothly during transitions, it exhibits a delayed response.  

We recognize that General Motors is transitioning away from multiple drive modes as most drivers predominantly utilize the Normal drive mode. In the Activ variant, however, the available drive modes cater mainly to challenging conditions, such as Snow and Off-Road settings. What we find somewhat peculiar are the steering wheel paddle shifters, which necessitate the activation of the ‘L’ button on the steering wheel to engage. This seems indicative of yet another feature that may not see widespread use. 

DISLIKES: Slow transmission response, turbocharger runs out of grunt, not as quick as it should be. 

On the road, the Equinox displays well-behaved chassis control and handling characteristics. It provides a solid feeling in the structural refinement that is competent and stable. The suspension tuning stays the course of providing a smooth, optimal ride quality. As for the Activ trim, while it is not designed to handle anything more than dirt tracks to a hiking trail, its off-the-pavement behavior exhibits well-behaved control provide ideal comfort for when the road does get washboardy.  

Although the MPG figures are not technically improved from the previous generation, we noticed a significant uptick in efficiency. The EPA rates the Equinox at 14-city, 29-highway, and 26-combined MPG, and we achieved 26.6-combined MPG, an increase from the previous generation’s 23.7 MPG. 

When it comes to value, the Equinox truly stands out, outshining the glare on a Cybertruck. The starting price is enticing, with the LT trim at $31,080 that offers standard features like heated seats and a heated steering wheel. And although the pricing is competitive, it would be nice to see GM to consider a hybrid powertrain option positioning it as an even stronger competitor against heavyweights like the Honda CR-V Hybrid, Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, and Hyundai Tucson Hybrid. At least for now, the latest updates to the Equinox should solidify its position as a strong contender for buyers who are cross-shopping.