2020 Chevy Equinox Review

The small crossover SUV segment is the most competitive in the industry. That means each crossover in the class has to be at the top of its game, and even good entries can be overshadowed by the truly great ones. Take the 2020 Chevrolet Equinox, for example. Though it has numerous strengths, it has many rivals that simply put together a more comprehensively pleasing package.

Certainly, the Chevrolet Equinox does the SUV thing well. There's plenty of legroom all around, and cargo space is definitely better than what you'll find in a comparably priced sedan or hatchback. It also delivers a smooth, comfortable ride, and the seats are shaped for all-day comfort. We also like that the Equinox is one of the few entries in the class that offer an upgraded engine.

Things, however, fall apart in execution. The Equinox is priced higher than many of its rivals, for instance. Don't get thrown off by the seemingly affordable base L trim level, either. It's special-order only, so you're unlikely to find one on a dealer lot. The next-level LS costs thousands more and doesn't add much. The high cost of entry is a theme that repeats since the Equinox is more expensive than competitors when comparing trims on a feature-by-feature basis. We're also not huge fans of the standard turbocharged 1.5-liter engine. It feels slower than rival powerplants, and its fuel-saving stop-start function is annoying in operation and cannot be disabled. Finally, even moderately sized passengers will balk at the limited rear headroom afforded by the panoramic sunroof. (Thankfully, this is a stand-alone option at all trim levels.)

If you're in the market for a crossover with fewer drawbacks, consider the Honda CR-V, which has more cargo and passenger room, plus a more satisfying 1.5-liter turbo engine. The Mazda CX-5 is a pleasure to drive and, like the Equinox, has a powerful optional motor. The new Ford Escape is also worth a look and offers more powertrain choices than any other vehicle in the class.

Notably, we picked the 2020 Chevrolet Equinox with 2.0T engine as one of Edmunds' Fastest SUVs for 2019.

The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox is a five-passenger compact crossover sold in four trims: L, LS, LT, and Premier. The base L model seems like a great deal until you realize that it's a custom-order model and you'll have to wait for it to be built. You'll find the LS at practically any dealer, but it's more expensive and doesn't add much. Best to skip straight to the LT, which is just a bit pricier and includes more features and access to additional options. If you want the LT and its two packages, the leather-trimmed Premier includes it all.