2021 Chevrolet Equinox Configurations Review
2021 Chevrolet Equinox Configurations Review – The small SUV Crossover segment is the most competitive in the industry. That means every crossover in the class must be at the top of the game, and even good entries can be shadowed by great people. Take the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox, for example. Despite having a lot of power, it has many rivals who simply collect a more comprehensive package of fun.
Of course, the Chevrolet Equinox performs SUV good stuff. There is plenty of legroom all around, and the cargo is definitely better than what you would find in comparably priced sedan or hatchback. It also provides a smooth, comfortable ride, and chair shaped for comfort throughout the day. We also like that Equinox is one of several entries in the class that offers the engine upgrade.
2021 Chevrolet Equinox Configurations Review
Things, however, mess in execution. The equinox is priced higher than many of its competitors, for example. Don’t be thrown off by the seemingly affordable base L Trim level, either. It’s a special-order course, so you’re unlikely to find one in many dealers. LS Next level cost thousands more and does not add much. The high cost of entry is a repeating theme since Equinox is more expensive than competitors when comparing trims to basic feature-by-features.
2021 Chevrolet Equinox Engine Configurations
We are also not much fan of the standard 1.5-liter turbocharged engine. It feels slower than a rival powerplant, and this fuel-efficient stop-start function is annoying in operation and cannot be disabled. Finally, even a medium-sized passenger will balk in a limited back head chamber given by the Panorama sunroof. (Fortunately, this is a stand-alone option at all trim levels.)
If you are in the market for a crossover with fewer drawbacks, consider a Honda CR-V, which has more cargo and passenger space, plus a more satisfying 1.5-liter turbo engine. The CX-5 Mazda 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 options than any other vehicle in the class.
In theory, L would be a good choice, because it costs much less than competitors and has many features. Unfortunately, this is a custom-order Trim, so you’re unlikely to see it in many local dealers. LS is more common but costs thousands more and adds virtually no extra features. Thus, LT is the way to go. It is not much more expensive and adds some desirable luxuries. It also opens the door to a wider array of optional packages, if you want additional features.
2021 Chevrolet Equinox Model
The 2021 Chevrolet Equinox is a five-seater compact crossover sold in four trims: L, LS, LT, and Premier. The basic model L seems like a lot until you realize that it is a custom order model and you have to wait for it to be built. You will find LS in almost every dealer, but it is more expensive and does not add much. It is best to jump straight to the LT, which is just a little pricier and includes more features and access to additional options. If you want an LT and two packages, the leather-trimmed Premier covers it all.
Two engines were offered on the Equinox. The standard machine is a 1.5-liter four-cylinder turbocharged (170 Horsepower, 203 lb-ft torque) matched with six automatic transmission speeds. The more powerful turbocharged 2.0-liter engine (252 HP, 260 lb-ft) is an optional and comes standard with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available on all but basic L models.
2021 Chevrolet Equinox Interior
2021 Chevrolet Equinox Configurations Review
L Trim is well equipped and comes standard with features such as automatic lights, LED daytime running lights, heated mirrors, keyless entry and ignition, high-adjustable front seats, Bluetooth, OnStar with 4G LTE connectivity and Wi-Fi hotspot, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 7-inch touch screen, and six-speaker audio system.
Standard safety features include automatic high beam control, a rearview camera, forward-collision warnings with pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking, as well as alerts and mitigation of departure paths.
The next LS level is pricier and adds only a few features, although it does open the door to a wide range of expanded exterior colors and availability of all-wheel drives. LS Convenience Pack adds an adjustable driver seat and a rear privacy glass.
Stepping onto the LT gets you a xenon lamp, an upgraded information display, an additional rear seat releasing lever, satellite radio, and an adjustable driver seat power. The LT offers two essential feature packages: The Infotainment package and the confidence and Convenience packages. The latter is worth getting to liftgate power, heated front seat and blind-spot Monitoring.
Lastly, the Premier range-topping includes the above package in addition to LED and backlight, a hands-free liftgate, driver-seat memory function, and wireless charging device.
Even Top-Trim Premier left some items on the table such as a 360-degree parking camera and a BOSE Premium sound system. It is available through trust and comfort II and the Infotainment II package.
Chevrolet Equinox vs. Chevrolet Traverse
The Chevrolet Traverse is the sibling of the larger equinox. The higher price tag commensurate with the increase in its interior space, the third seat row, and the nicer cabin material. The two crossovers were redesigned in 2018 and have modern technology and safety facilities. Similar exterior and interior styling cues really mean picking the right one depending on your needs.
Chevrolet Equinox vs. Ford escape
A new Ford Escape debuted for 2020, ramping up Crosstown competitions to a higher level than ever before. Especially, it comes in hybrid and plug-in hybrid offerings, so it could be better to choose if you’re looking for a superior fuel economy. Compared to its predecessor, the new Escape feature greatly enhances cabin material and additional legroom.
Chevrolet Equinox vs GMC Terrain
Under the skin, the Equinox and the GMC field are essentially the same vehicles. They share the same powertrains and almost exactly the same size. The main difference is that in styling-GMC is more square and looks a bit tougher than the Chevy.
