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2021 Chevrolet Equinox Pros vs Cons

Why Buy a 2021 Chevrolet Equinox?
Reviewed & fact checked by
James MurdochNorman Ruckpaul

Are You Considering a 2021 Chevrolet Equinox? Here Are Some Reasons For and Against

Have you ever wished there were a vehicle that fit perfectly in between a full-size SUV and a sedan? Extra space without being too large and agile without being frumpy and hard to handle are the best attributes of the intermediary Chevrolet Equinox. In fact, it is this perfect balance that makes the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox so different from other crossover models. Its agreeability and charming nature draw you in while its agility and spry handling will keep you enticed and wanting more. Meeting all the qualifications that consumers find the most important in a modern crossover, the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox is a top-selling model. Its pricing and versatility help it stand out in a world of intense competition.

What's New for 2021?

Coming out of the year 2020, the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox model year sees no significant changes in its newest version. A few changes here and there will make it distinctively unique from the prior model years, but a long halt in production due to a global pandemic thwarted Chevrolet's vision for the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox. Shutting down production altogether was never expected in 2021, so the Chevrolet Equinox will likely see a larger array of changes in its 2022 model year.


Ten Reasons You May Like the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox – The Pros

1. A powerful engine that is standard, but exemplary and capable.

When you imagine a feature coming standard in a vehicle, it is automatically assumed that attribute is subpar and must be upgraded to experience the best. However, the standard 2.0-liter of some 2021 Chevrolet Equinox trims is fully capable with its 252-horsepower production and 260 lb.-ft. of torque generation. Paired with a nine-speed transmission and all-wheel drive, this Equinox is a driving force in the crossover market.

2. Smooth driving and exceptional ride quality.

You will not find any jerky or out of sync movements in this crossover. The 2021 Chevrolet Equinox incorporates functional suspension that easily absorbs any bumps in the road and irregular movements are completing canceled out. Good manners and distinguished ride quality speak to the standards set forth by this automaker.

3. Graceful handling that is felt throughout.

Negating any feelings of active body rolling and gliding around corners with ease, the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox handles better than most crossovers in its class. We contribute this to its available and enhanced all-wheel drive and the inherent design elements of this vehicle. An upgrade to 19-inch wheels will also help absorb some of the unwanted bumps in the road.

4. Easy steering effort that matches our expectations.

In a vehicle that is as large and spacious as the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox, steering responsiveness and agility can be hard to come by. Lightweight but sturdy, this crossover can be steered with ease. In general, drivers do not have to put much effort into quick turns and guidance, as the Equinox anticipates these movements ahead of time.

5. Comfortable seats that provide just the right amount of support.

On long drives or during daily commuting comfortable seats are important to passengers. Proper support is key for efficient driving, while adequate cushioning promotes a pleasant experience. These firm supportive materials and plush upholstery transcend into the back seat where additional leg room can be found, as well.

6. A perfect height for vehicle entrance and exit.

Sitting at just over 65" tall the floorboard of the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox hits passengers at just the right height. Easy to get into and out of, this crossover puts an intense focus on passenger comfort and utilization. The shape of the door frame and roof height also play into the ease of accessing the interior of this crossover, as well.

7. Integrated infotainment system that ensures constant connectivity.

Equipped with Chevrolet's signature MyLink technology that is integrated into this crossover's infotainment system, drivers and passengers can stay connected to their favorite apps and cell phones while occupying the Chevrolet Equinox. Utilizing a touchscreen with just the touch a fingertip, this infotainment system is user-friendly and well-built. Voice command functionality is also included.

8. A plethora of useful driver aids.

In modern vehicles consumers want to know that they are receiving the best safety-assistive features and technology that is available. Going all out, the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox incorporates these features into its standard model and offers more through upgrade potential. Package options, like the Confidence and Convenience package, offer additional tech-based attributes. A few examples of these include forward collision warning and lane keep assist, among many others.

9. Innovative storage solutions for passengers.

One of the main reasons buyers invest in a 2021 Chevrolet Equinox is because it offers more storage options than comparable sedans. The storage solutions this crossover offers are flexible and clever, leaving as much room in the cabin for passenger occupancy as possible. Rear seats that fold down completely, cubby holes, and extra cup holders are part of the solution this crossover offers to buyers.

10. Admirable fuel economy for any situation.

A feature that is more like a sedan than an SUV is the fuel efficiency of the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox. Attaining 25 MPG combined, drivers can feel comfortable using this crossover as a daily driving solution or travel companion.


Reasons You May Not Like the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox – The Cons

1. A base engine will leave you wanting more.

Though we previously touted the 2.0-liter standard engine on some trim levels, the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox base model incorporates a 1.5-liter engine that many may find lacks power. Generating a feel that is rather lackluster, this base engine is restrictive in many ways.

2. Interior quality that leaves much to be desired.

Though we do not expect the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox to be a luxury vehicle, we do expect it to offer more within the cabin that it does. Average quality is the best way to describe the inside of this crossover, which may be disappointing for some buyers looking for a bit more.

3. Cargo space that falls short of competitors.

Although the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox offers many unique storage options, the storage space within this crossover is extremely limited. With just under 30 cubic feet of interior cargo space, the self-folding ability of the back seats often needs to be used to create more stowage area. This often makes loading and unloading easier, anyway.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2021 Chevrolet Equinox vs 2021 Ford Escape

In the same economic class as the 2021 Ford Escape, the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox finds a fierce competitor in this model. There are a few ways in which the Ford Escape offers a better advantage than the Chevrolet Equinox. A couple of these facets include the powertrain options and higher interior quality of the Escape than the Equinox. However, the Equinox also stands out from the Escape in some areas. The general quality and functionality of the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox excels over these same facets of the 2021 Ford Escape.

2021 Chevrolet Equinox vs 2021 GMC Terrain

Another intense competitor of the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox is the 2021 GMC Terrain. Also boasting a 2.0-liter engine upgrade, the GMC Terrain tries its best to match the powertrain options offered in the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox. With a sleek cabin and modern controls, the Terrain is much more contemporary than the Equinox. However, available at a much better price point, the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox is much more affordable and attainable than the 2021 GMC Terrain. Reliable, comfortable, and user-friendly, the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox is everything the 2021 GMC Terrain is not. In all, both crossovers are great options, but they each stand out from one another in their own way.

Conclusion

The 2021 Chevrolet Equinox crossover is a versatile vehicle that caters to a wide array of consumers. Unlike some models that cater to a specific niche class, like those of the luxury or full-size nature, the Chevrolet Equinox is multi-faceted and well-rounded. Produced by an auto brand that is known for its historical dedication to quality and durability, the Chevrolet roots run deep in this modern crossover model. Transcending the Chevy tradition into a vehicle that is a unique mix of a sedan and an SUV, the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox puts a on spin on this traditional brand.

For buyers that are looking for the space of an SUV at an affordable price, the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox certainly fits the bill. With features and accents that are a little flashy without being too over the top, this crossover meets buyers somewhere in the middle. Offering a conventional answer to those with multi-dimensional tastes, the design of the Equinox is pleasing to all. Displaying the exact message that Chevrolet has for its buyers, the intention of the Equinox is to make quality, style, and functionality in a modern vehicle available to all buyers. The 2021 Chevrolet Equinox does not let us down in this goal.


Previous Chevrolet Equinox Buying Guides:

Why buy a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox? w/ pros vs cons