Chevrolet Equinox review

It’s the Chevrolet Equinox, the crossover SUV that makes the days feel longer. If you ever see one parked next to a Pontiac Solstice, congrats, you win Top Gear’s ‘sensible chuckle’ award.

Beyond the nomenclature, the Equinox is Chevy’s modest compact SUV, debuting its fourth generation this year with a host of upgrades that include a handsomely aggressive new look. Sharp as it is, the facia is writing checks its meager powertrain can’t cash, so ‘the Camaro of SUVs’ this is not. Get past that, though, and the Equinox has other, more reasonable things going for it.

Expectations set. So what’s new?

We’ll mention the looks again because they are worth highlighting. Over the past couple of years, Chevrolet has revitalized its SUV lineup with either new or refreshed models, and the Equinox has absolutely benefited from this. Outside and in, it apes the Traverse as best it can in design, though it can’t match the Jeep Grand Cherokee-fighting older sibling in capability.

There are three Equinox trims: LT, RS and Activ. Chevrolet offers a full-electric Equinox EV, too, but it’s unique enough to warrant its own review. Each model is a different expression of the Equinox’s personalities, from the sleek starter-level LT, the more rugged-looking Activ and the sporty RS. They dress the part, but all versions share a 175hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine that is mated to either a CVT or eight-speed auto gearbox depending on if it's FWD or AWD. Both are offered with every trim.

So the different models are just appearance packages?

That’s the long and short of it. There are different equipment packages in play and a number of stylish details to pick from, but mechanically they’re fairly identical. That is to say, don’t think the ‘rugged’ Activ trim is more or less capable as the ‘sporty’ RS in any way apart from the wheel size and tire choices.

Activ Equinoxes roll up on 17-inch aluminum wheels shod in all-terrain tires while the bold and brash RS trim comes with a set of 19-inch carbon flash machined aluminum wheels as standard, with the option to up to 20s, which is a first for Chevy’s stalwart crossover.

Thankfully, the pricing reflects this as the LT – with fewer options – is the cheaper one while the other two trims start at the same rate.

How is it on the road?

Whichever version you find yourself in, the conveniences outshine the driving experience which is serviceable. Given the 175hp on tap isn’t exactly a bounty of propulsion energy, it’s a good thing the Equinox looks fast sitting still. The SUV feels the most stable in its AWD iteration, handy for slimy weather and the softest of off-roading if the need arises.

Thrills are surely off the table but thankfully the Equinox is competent as a daily driver in that the ride avoids having any off-putting quirks.

In the meantime, the Equinox does well enough to stretch the miles. The EPA gives the FWD versions an estimated 27mpg combined rating with the AWD ones losing a mile off the average. Anyone along for the journey will have ample head and leg room while a good-sized cargo area can fit a decent amount of shopping, bags or even an average drinks cooler.

Chevy’s revitalized Equinox remains a decent bang-for-your-buck option for those in the market for an affordable compact SUV, made better with the modern restyling and convenience packages. Though the looks imply a certain level of capability, it’s just for show; the Activ trim is as rugged as the RS trim is sporty, which is to say not at all. Indeed, it’s a little frustrating that so many of its design cues invoke other Chevrolets that can actually perform. We miss you already, Camaro.

It might strike out when it comes to wish fulfillment but we’re still left with an attractive, handy crossover that is reasonably well priced, even with all the options ticked. Within the boundaries of standard use, it’s got its bases covered, but it would be nice if it was ever so slightly extra. We wouldn’t kick a competitor like the Toyota RAV4 out of our garage to make room for this, but the Equinox is a solid back-up choice.