Despite turbocharging, the engine doesn't feel very lively
Interior materials quality is disappointing considering the price
Optional 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is not available for this model year
Leather package is new to the LT trim level
Part of the third Equinox generation introduced for 2018
The compact crossover SUV class is the most competitive of any automotive segment, and any automaker with skin in the game has to offer a vehicle that stands out to woo consumers. Competitors might deliver unmistakable value, compelling style, next-generation tech, genuine off-road ability or class-leading ride comfort.
The Chevrolet Equinox offered few of these standout attributes to begin with, and with the cancellation of its powerful turbocharged 2.0-liter engine option, this year's model feels like a C-student wallflower among numerous impressive alternatives. Though the Equinox exhibits good ride comfort and has a nifty infotainment system, its drab interior, wallowy handling and tepid acceleration are decidedly unimpressive. The same goes for Chevrolet's nickel-and-dime approach to features.
The 2021 Chevrolet Equinox was supposed to be a refreshed model, but COVID-related delays pushed the update to next year. Our advice? If you need a compact SUV now, take a look at one of the Equinox's many superior rivals, such as the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5 or Ford Escape. If you absolutely need a bowtie in your driveway, wait until the restyled 2022 Equinox debuts in the first half of 2021.
Which Equinox does Edmunds recommend?
If you are intent on purchasing a Chevy Equinox, we recommend the LT trim level. It represents the sweet spot in the Equinox lineup,providing the broadest array of standard and available features at the most reasonable price.
Chevrolet Equinox models
Chevrolet offers the 2021 Equinox in four trim levels. The base L trim is available only by special order, which means you're most likely to choose from LS, LT, and Premier trims when shopping at your local Chevy dealership. For 2021, only one engine is available: a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder (170 horsepower, 203 lb-ft of torque) matched to a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all but the L model can be equipped with all-wheel drive.
L
The base Equinox L gives you a choice between white and silver paint and includes:
17-inch alloy wheels
Heated mirrors
Keyless entry and ignition
Height-adjustable driver's seat
7-inch touchscreen
Six-speaker audio system
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot
Four USB ports
Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Lane departure mitigation (warns you of a lane departure when a turn signal isn't used and can automatically steer to maintain lane position)
Rear-seat reminder (alerts you to check the rear seat before exiting the vehicle)
LS
The LS adds a broader variety of exterior paint colors and a few extra features for a steep cost. Added equipment includes:
Rear floor mats
Compact spare tire
You can also opt for the LS Convenience package, which adds:
Power-adjustable driver's seat
Rear privacy glass
LT
Our recommended trim level is your ticket to satisfaction. It comes with:
LS Convenience package
Upgraded headlights
Added chrome and body-colored exterior trim
Upgraded driver information screen
Satellite radio
Remote rear-seat folding levers
Several packages are available for the LT trim, including:
Confidence & Convenience package:
Remote engine start
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Leather-wrapped steering wheel
Heated front seats
Power rear liftgate
Rear parking sensors (alert you to obstacles that may not be visible behind the vehicle when parking)
Blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while reversing)
Customers looking to spruce up the look of their Equinox can opt for the Blackout or Chrome packages (which add black or chrome exterior trim, respectively) or the Sport Edition or Midnight Edition packages (which add black-painted wheels and black interior trim).
Premier
Aiming upscale, the Equinox Premier includes all the LT content, plus its three core feature packages (minus the navigation system). It also adds:
18-inch wheels
LED headlights
Chrome exterior styling elements
Hands-free rear liftgate
Ambient lighting
Wireless charging pad
The Premier isn't fully loaded out of the box, however. You can further add:
Confidence & Convenience II package
Heated steering wheel
Power-adjustable passenger seat
Ventilated front seats
Heated rear seats
Adaptive cruise control (adjusts the speed to maintain a constant distance between the vehicle and the car in front)
Surround-view camera system (gives you a top-down view of the Equinox and its surroundings for tight parking situations)
Infotainment II package (requires Confidence & Convenience II package)
Navigation system
Seven-speaker Bose premium sound system
The Redline Edition appearance package adds black exterior trim with red accents.
*The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. Click here to see all Chevrolet vehicles' destination freight charges.
The car does not feel as roomy as the older models but not uncomfortable.
The ride is fine. The car needs a redesign to give it a more pleasing look. It looks like you are driving a cheaper car. I wish I had purchased the Premier. It is a little difficult to enter and/or exit for a senior.
5/5 stars, Love it
Colleen Hennessy ,
LT 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Great SUV. not too small and not too big.
5/5 stars, Perfect for me
Sandy,
LT 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Size ,ride,accesories are all perfect for my needs- luvin my Equinox
4/5 stars, Chevy convinced me!!!!!!
Sam S-Niagara Falls,
LS 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
bought a 2021 Equinox and I must say I am impressed. I thought a 4 cylinder turbo would lack the power BUT I WAS WRONG. Bought the LS with cov. package and it is JUST what we need in a vehicle. LOTS of room, great appearance, handles like a sports car at a price that IMPRESSED me!.
I'm Edmund's editor Bryn MacKinnon, and here's a features rundown of the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox. For 2018, the Chevy Equinox gets a full redesign. It's smaller and lighter than before, which, combined with more efficient engines, gives it better fuel economy. A new diesel option will also be available. We're partial to the 2.0 liter turbo engine option for its quick acceleration and sharp response. By comparison, the base 1.5 liter seems to struggle. We were pleasantly surprised how well the Equinox handles. Its very capable, even fun on a winding road, and the ride quality doesn't suffer as a result. The Equinox sticker price is higher than similarly equipped SUV's in the class. But common incentives and deals can get the cost more competitive. We caution buyers to keep an eye on options as they can be expensive. We think there's plenty of cargo space for most owners, but it's important to note that it's smaller than the competition. A hands free power liftgate and remote levers that fold the rear seats flat are nice convenience features, though. The rear seats offer good support for adults, but the optional panoramic sunroof does cut into headroom back there. The interior design is pleasant and many features are easy to use. The vertical vents in the center of the dash are attractive but don't distribute the air very well. With a strong infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a standard Wi-Fi hotspot, and six available US ports, the Equinox gets high marks for technology. Front seats are comfortable, and ventilated seats are available. In general, we like the interior, but there are some hard plastic materials that seem out of place. Chevy Equinox's top competitors include Honda CRV, Mazda CX 5, and Toyota RAV4. Bottom line, the Equinox is not the most exciting compact crossover to drive, but it is one of the best all rounders in the class. If you can look past its small cargo area, you'll be rewarded with a comfortable ride, roomy cabin, and one of the best touchscreen systems in the business.
2018 Chevrolet Equinox Features Rundown
NOTE: This video is about the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox, but since the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.
The compact crossover market is hotter than ever, so it's the perfect time to debut the fully redesigned 2018 Chevrolet Equinox. This smaller, lighter Equinox puts a premium on fuel efficiency, safety and connectivity. Too bad it carries a premium price tag to match. In this video, we highlight the key features that matter most. From mpg, interior space and technology to design and comfort - these pros and cons will help steer you toward a perfect car.
Vibrates to alert the driver when advanced safety systems activate, including the parking sensors and blind-spot monitor.
Side Blind Zone Alert
Illuminates a light on the Equinox's outside mirrors if there's a vehicle in or approaching the Equinox's left- or right-hand blind spot.
Forward Collision Alert
Sounds an alarm if the Equinox rapidly approaches the vehicle in front and a collision is deemed imminent.
NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Driver
5 / 5
Passenger
5 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Driver
5 / 5
Passenger
5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Rating
Front Seat
5 / 5
Back Seat
5 / 5
Rollover
Rating
Rollover
4 / 5
Dynamic Test Result
No Tip
Risk Of Rollover
16.4%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
Side Impact Test
Good
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good
IIHS Small Overlap Front Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test
Good
Chevrolet Equinox vs. the competition
2021 Chevrolet Equinox
2021 Honda CR-V
Chevrolet Equinox vs. Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is the standard-bearer among compact crossover SUVs, and for good reason. The CR-V exudes quality, offers a comfortable ride, and boasts one of the largest cargo holds in the class. It also delivers robust performance, impressive efficiency and capable handling. There's even a hybrid version if you want to save money at the pump. Read Edmunds' long-term road test of the Honda CR-V.
Value is the name of the Hyundai Tucson's game. It lacks the Equinox's turbocharged thrust of low-end torque, but it more than makes up for it with a class-leading warranty and roadside assistance plan, plus free scheduled maintenance for three years. It's comparable in cargo space to the Equinox, and because a redesigned Tucson is right around the corner, dealers might be willing to offer attractive discounts on the 2021 model.
Variety, it is said, is the spice of life. If true, then the Toyota RAV4 delivers. Its standard engine supplies more than 200 horsepower, and both the RAV4 Hybrid and the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid models simultaneously offer greater efficiency and performance. Compared to the Equinox, it offers superior cargo space, and the RAV4 is available in both Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims, providing more ability to get off the grid than most compact crossover SUVs.
The Edmunds experts tested the 2021 Equinox both on the road and at the track. You probably care about Chevrolet Equinox fuel economy, so it's important to know that the Equinox gets an EPA-estimated 27 mpg to 28 mpg, depending on the configuration. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the Equinox has 29.9 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Chevrolet Equinox. Learn more
What's new in the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox:
Optional 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is not available for this model year
Leather package is new to the LT trim level
Part of the third Equinox generation introduced for 2018
To determine whether the Chevrolet Equinox is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Equinox. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Equinox's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox is a good car. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2021 Equinox is a good car for you. Check back soon for the official Edmunds Rating from our expert testing team Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2021 Chevrolet Equinox?
The least-expensive 2021 Chevrolet Equinox is the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox L 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $23,800.
Other versions include:
LT 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $29,100
LT 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $27,500
LS 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $26,300
Premier 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $33,000
LS 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $27,900
Premier 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $31,400
L 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $23,800
What are the different models of Chevrolet Equinox?
If you're interested in the Chevrolet Equinox, the next question is, which Equinox model is right for you? Equinox variants include LT 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), LT 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), LS 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), and Premier 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A). For a full list of Equinox models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more
More about the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox
2021 Chevrolet Equinox Overview
The 2021 Chevrolet Equinox is offered in the following submodels: Equinox SUV. Available styles include LT 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), LT 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), LS 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), Premier 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), LS 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), Premier 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), and L 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A).
What do people think of the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for
the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox and all its trim types.
Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2021 Equinox
4.7 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars.
Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what
other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database.
Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior,
exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a
comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2021 Equinox.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2021 Equinox featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2021 Chevrolet Equinox?
2021 Chevrolet Equinox L 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2021 Chevrolet Equinox L 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $24,995. The average price paid for a new 2021 Chevrolet Equinox L 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $1,414 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $1,414 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $23,581.
The average savings for the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox L 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 5.7% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:
We are showing 1 2021 Chevrolet Equinox L 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2021 Chevrolet Equinox LS 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2021 Chevrolet Equinox LS 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $28,180. The average price paid for a new 2021 Chevrolet Equinox LS 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $1,603 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $1,603 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $26,577.
The average savings for the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox LS 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 5.7% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:
We are showing 117 2021 Chevrolet Equinox LS 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2021 Chevrolet Equinox LT 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2021 Chevrolet Equinox LT 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $33,670. The average price paid for a new 2021 Chevrolet Equinox LT 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $1,929 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $1,929 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $31,741.
The average savings for the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox LT 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 5.7% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:
We are showing 177 2021 Chevrolet Equinox LT 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2021 Chevrolet Equinox Premier 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2021 Chevrolet Equinox Premier 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $37,675. The average price paid for a new 2021 Chevrolet Equinox Premier 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $2,167 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $2,167 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $35,508.
The average savings for the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox Premier 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 5.8% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:
We are showing 35 2021 Chevrolet Equinox Premier 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
Which 2021 Chevrolet Equinoxes are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings
of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2021 Chevrolet Equinox for
sale near. There are currently 329
new 2021 Equinoxes listed for sale in your area, with list
prices as low as $24,995 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the
type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to
find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle
you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find
out what other owners paid for the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of
your choice and save up to $9,922 on a used or CPO 2021 Equinox available
from a dealership near you.
Can't find a new 2021 Chevrolet Equinoxs you
want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new Chevrolet for sale - 2 great deals out of 13 listings starting at $7,668.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2021 Chevrolet Equinox?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you
that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make
higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand,
can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a
new car every three years or so.
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