2023 Chevrolet Equinox review, pricing, and specs

Although the Equinox lineup includes a value-packed base LS model as well as the Premiere – which sits at the top of the pecking order – we’d opt for the mid-grade RS. Its standard features include blind-spot monitoring, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, power liftgate, rear cross-traffic alert, and remote start. You can get the same content in the LT by adding the Confidence and Convenience package, but we prefer the RS’s dark trim and think it justifies the price difference between the two.

Engine, Transmission and Performance

Underpowered and frequently out of breath, the turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder won’t win any fans with its sluggish performance, and it’s the only one offered for the Equinox. The engine makes 175 horsepower, and when paired with the optional (and heavy) all-wheel-drive system (front-wheel drive is standard), it takes a heavy foot to get the Equinox up to highway speeds. The six-speed automatic shifts seamlessly, although it is reluctant to downshift when extra power is needed as it is geared toward fuel economy. On our test track, our most recent Equinox test vehicle, an RS trim with all-wheel drive, needed 8.0 seconds to reach 60 mph. Agreeable and easy to drive, the Equinox handles competently, and its steering is precise and direct. The ride can be harsh at times, especially with the optional 19-inch wheels (17s are standard), and rough sections of road communicate some unpleasantness into the cabin. The Chevy can also tow up to 3500 pounds.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The EPA estimates that the front-wheel-drive Equinox will earn 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Adding all-wheel drive lowers the ratings by 2 and 1 mpg, respectively. We subjected an earlier Equinox model with the 1.5-liter engine and front-wheel drive to our 75-mph real-world fuel-economy test route where it returned 32 mpg. For more information on the Equinox’s fuel economy, see EPA website,

Interior, Comfort & Cargo

The cabin of the Equinox is well styled and crafted from durable materials. Both front and rear seat passengers should feel comfortable in the spacious interior, with enough amenities to keep them satisfied on long journeys. There are plenty of cupholders in the cabin, but most interior luxuries are offered as optional equipment for the LT model or as standard content on the RS and Premier models. Some rivals offer more space behind the rear seats, but we still managed to fit eight of our carry-on suitcases back there. Aside from a huge center-console storage bin, the Equinox’s cabin storage is average.

Infotainment & Connectivity

A 7.0-inch touchscreen (an 8.0-inch unit is optional) displays Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment interface atop the Equinox’s dash; The system continues to impress with its ease of use and quick responses. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, as are Bluetooth phone and audio streaming, USB connectivity and an auxiliary input jack. Standard 4G LTE onboard Wi-Fi makes the Equinox one of the best connected crossovers out there.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The Equinox earned a five-star rating from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), but was not named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The compact crossover also comes with a wide range of standard and optional driver-assistance technology. Key security features include:

• Standard Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection
• Standard Lane-Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
• available adaptive cruise control

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Chevy’s basic warranty package is just that—basic—but it also has coverage of its competitors. Both the Kia Sportage and its corporate cousin, the Hyundai Tucson, offer the Longevity Safety Scheme. Chevy also offers a free dealer maintenance visit within the first year of ownership, which is a nice perk.

• Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
• Complimentary maintenance is covered for the first visit

More Features and Specifications