Exploring Chevy Equinox Competitors – If you’re in the market for a compact crossover SUV, the Chevrolet Equinox is likely on your radar. This tried-and-true vehicle has been a favorite among drivers since its debut back in 2004.
With its current 2022 lineup offering a variety of trim levels like LS, LT, RS, and Premier, it’s no wonder that the Equinox continues to be a popular choice for many.
The standard front-wheel-drive configuration and the option to upgrade to an all-wheel-drive system give drivers the flexibility they need to tackle different road conditions.
Under the hood, you’ll find a peppy four-cylinder turbocharged 1.5L engine, delivering a respectable 170 horsepower.
Inside, the Equinox offers comfortable seating for up to five people, making it a great choice for families and adventurers alike.
But what if you’re looking for something slightly different? What if you’re curious about the Chevy Equinox competitors and want to explore cars like it?
In this article, we’re going to delve into some of the best alternatives to the Chevy Equinox, giving you a well-rounded view of other compact crossover SUVs that might pique your interest.
21 Best Cars Similar to Chevy Equinox: Exploring Alternatives and Competitors
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a close look at some remarkable Chevy Equinox competitors and cars similar in size and appeal, helping you make an informed decision when shopping for your next vehicle.
Read also: Chevy Tahoe Competitors
1. Buick Encore: Compact Luxury
The Buick Encore is a compact SUV that stands out in the crowd. Equipped with a four-cylinder turbocharged 1.4L engine, the Encore delivers a smooth and efficient ride.
There are two trim levels available: the base model and the all-wheel Preferred model. The base model offers a combined city and highway MPG of 27.5, while the Preferred model achieves 26.5 MPG.
The interior of the 2021 Encore exudes luxury and comfort, with seats elevated to maximize your driving experience.
With a price range of $24,000 to $26,000, the Buick Encore offers an equally luxurious and compact alternative to the Chevy Equinox.
2. Chevrolet Trailblazer: Bold and Subcompact
The Chevrolet Trailblazer is a bold and subcompact crossover SUV, providing an excellent alternative to the Equinox.
With four trim options to choose from (LS, LT, Activ, and RS) and two engine choices (1.2L with 137 horsepower and 1.3L with 155 horsepower), the Trailblazer offers versatility and performance.
This subcompact SUV can comfortably seat up to five people, and it’s available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations.
Drivers can expect a combined city and highway MPG ranging from 28 to 31, all at a price between $22,000 and $27,000.
3. Chevrolet Traverse: The Spacious Mid-Size SUV
For those seeking a blend of speed and space, the 2021 Chevrolet Traverse is the ideal mid-size SUV.
With five trim levels (L, LS, RS, Premier, and High Country) and an all-wheel drive option, the Traverse caters to various needs.
Its powerful 3.6L V6 engine provides a thrilling driving experience while maintaining an impressive combined city and highway MPG of 22.5.
What sets the Traverse apart is its ability to comfortably seat up to eight people across three rows, with adult passengers finding the third row surprisingly accommodating.
Equipped with an intuitive and responsive infotainment system, this mid-size SUV offers something for everyone, and its price ranges from $30,000 to $53,000.
Related: Chevy Traverse vs Subaru Ascent
4. Chevrolet Trax: The Compact Entry-Level SUV
The Chevrolet Trax is an excellent choice for those in search of a compact, entry-level SUV. All Trax models come standard with a four-cylinder, turbocharged 1.4L engine, ensuring a peppy performance.
Two trim levels, LS and LT, offer flexibility to potential buyers, and the Trax is available in both front- and all-wheel drive configurations.
While the cabin prioritizes head and legroom, it can comfortably seat up to five people. However, when compared to similar competitors, the Trax’s cargo space may be limited.
The 2021 Trax models achieve a combined city and highway MPG of 28.5 and come with a price range of $22,000 to $25,000.
5. Fiat 500X: Blending Style and Power
The 2021 Fiat 500X is a subcompact SUV that seamlessly blends Fiat’s signature style with a powerful engine.
What sets it apart is that all 2021 500X models come standard as all-wheel drives, ensuring you have the traction you need in various driving conditions.
Under the hood, you’ll find a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 1.3 liters of displacement, churning out an impressive 177 horsepower.
The 2021 500X achieves a combined city and highway MPG of 27, making it an efficient option. Step inside, and you’ll discover a stylish interior that can comfortably accommodate up to five people.
Fiat offers four different trim levels for the 500X: Pop, Trekking, Sport, and Trekking Plus, allowing you to tailor the SUV to your preferences.
However, it’s worth noting that for families with substantial cargo needs, the 500X’s cargo space may be a tad limited. When it comes to pricing, the 2021 Fiat 500X falls within the range of $26,000 to $32,000.
6. Ford Eco-Sport: Dynamic and Affordable
The 2021 Ford Eco-Sport is a dynamic and affordable subcompact crossover, offering an excellent alternative to the Equinox.
Ford provides four different trim levels for the 2021 Eco-Sport: S, SE, Titanium, and SES 4WD, catering to various preferences and needs.
Buyers can choose between two engine options, either a turbocharged three-cylinder or a four-cylinder engine, with horsepower ranging from 123 to 166 depending on the trim level selected.
Fuel efficiency varies slightly, with the three-cylinder Eco-Sport achieving a combined city and highway MPG of 28, while the four-cylinder version reaches 26 MPG.
Inside, the Eco-Sport boasts a highly functional cabin that can seat up to five people comfortably in two rows. It also offers generous cargo space, making it an excellent choice for families with active lifestyles.
Pricing for the 2021 Ford Eco-Sport falls in the range of $21,000 to $29,000, making it an affordable option in the subcompact crossover segment.
7. Ford Escape: A Versatile Compact SUV
The 2021 Ford Escape is a compact SUV that offers versatility both on and off the road. Ford’s commitment to variety is evident with four different powertrain options and ten trim levels to choose from, including hybrid models.
Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency or power, there’s an Escape configuration to suit your needs.
The 2021 Escape is available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive, allowing you to tailor your driving experience.
Depending on the selected trim level, you can expect combined city and highway MPG ranging between 26 and 30, offering fuel-efficient options for eco-conscious buyers.
Inside the Escape, a sleek interior cabin can comfortably seat up to five people in two rows. Many Escape models come equipped with Ford’s latest infotainment system, Sync 3, providing a seamless and intuitive technology experience.
Pricing for the 2021 Ford Escape spans from $26,000 to $41,000, making it a competitive choice in the compact SUV market.
Related: Ford Escape vs Toyota RAV4
8. GMC Terrain: Handsomely Compact
If you’re seeking a handsomely compact crossover SUV, the 2021 GMC Terrain is a worthy contender.
GMC offers four different trim levels for the Terrain: SL, SLE, SLT, and Denali, each catering to different preferences and budgets.
Under the hood, you have the option of two four-cylinder engines: a 1.5L engine or a 2.0L turbocharged engine, delivering varying levels of power.
The Terrain is available as an all-wheel drive, ensuring you have the traction you need when the road gets challenging.
Turbocharged Terrain models achieve a commendable combined MPG of 27.5, offering both power and efficiency.
Inside, the 2021 Terrain features an accommodating cabin that can comfortably seat up to five people. It even comes standard with an onboard WIFI hotspot, adding to its appeal.
Potential buyers can expect a price range of $26,000 to $37,000 for the 2021 GMC Terrain, positioning it as a competitive choice in the compact SUV segment.
9. Honda CR-V: Spacious and Fuel-Efficient
If you’re searching for a compact crossover that combines ample space with fuel efficiency, the Honda CR-V is an excellent choice.
The 2022 CR-V offers seven trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, EX Hybrid, EX-L Hybrid, Touring, and Touring Hybrid, providing a range of options to cater to different preferences and budgets.
This versatile crossover is available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations. Whether you opt for the hybrid model or the 1.5L turbocharged engine, you can expect a smooth and efficient drive.
All-wheel-drive CR-Vs achieve a combined city and highway MPG of 29.5, making it a fuel-efficient choice.
Inside, the CR-V boasts a sleek interior cabin with ample room for the entire family, from comfortable seating to generous cargo space.
With the capacity to comfortably seat up to five adults, it’s an excellent option for family adventures.
Depending on the selected trim level, potential buyers will find a price range of $26,000 to $38,000, making it a competitive choice in the compact crossover segment.
Related: Honda CR-V vs Toyota RAV4
10. Hyundai Santa Fe: Striking Design and Efficiency
The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe is a striking SUV that offers a blend of style and decent fuel efficiency.
Buyers have the choice of two turbocharged powertrains: a 1.6L four-cylinder engine or a 2.5L four-cylinder engine, with an additional hybrid powertrain option available.
The 2021 Santa Fe is available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations, offering flexibility for various driving needs. With a highway MPG of up to 28, it’s an efficient choice for those seeking fuel savings.
Inside the Santa Fe, an equally attractive interior cabin can comfortably seat up to five people in two rows. The rear seats can be folded down to maximize the already ample cargo space.
The 2021 Santa Fe comes standard with Hyundai’s driver-assistance technology, enhancing safety and convenience.
With pricing ranging from $28,000 to $42,000, the Santa Fe represents a compelling alternative in the SUV market.
Related: Hyundai Santa Fe vs Kia Sorento
11. Jeep Grand Cherokee: Craftsmanship and Off-Roading Prowess
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a compact crossover SUV that’s a testament to Jeep’s craftsmanship and off-roading heritage.
Buyers can choose from an impressive nine different trim levels, allowing for customization to suit various preferences.
The standard engine is a four-cylinder 2.4L, but there are also options for a 2.4L and 3.2L four-cylinder turbocharged engines, providing power and performance options.
The most fuel-efficient Cherokee model achieves a combined city and highway MPG of 27, making it a practical choice.
The Cherokee is available as an all-wheel drive, and depending on the trim selected, it can seat up to seven people in the cabin.
Renowned for its off-roading capabilities, this crossover from Jeep is versatile enough to handle various terrains.
With pricing ranging from $28,000 to $39,000 for the 2021 models, the Cherokee offers value and rugged appeal in the compact SUV segment.
12. Kia Sorento: Stylish and Luxurious
Kia’s 2021 Sorento is a mid-size crossover that combines a stylish body with a luxurious cabin. It offers a wide range of powertrain options, from a hybrid model to a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, catering to different driving needs.
Depending on the chosen trim level, the Sorento’s horsepower ranges between 191 and 281, offering a balance between power and efficiency.
Turbocharged Sorento models achieve a combined city and highway MPG of 26, while the hybrid model excels with a combined MPG of 37.
Inside, the Sorento features a spacious cabin that can comfortably seat up to seven people in three rows.
The excellent infotainment system ties all these elements together, providing a seamless and enjoyable driving experience.
With pricing spanning from $30,000 to $44,000, the 2021 Sorento is a competitive choice in the mid-size crossover market.
Related: Kia Sorento vs Mitsubishi Outlander
13. Kia Soul: Stylish Subcompact Crossover
The Kia 2022 Soul is a subcompact crossover that makes a bold statement both inside and out.
For the 2022 lineup, Kia offers an impressive six trim levels: LX, S, X-Line, GT-Line, EX, and Turbo. This diversity allows buyers to choose the Soul that best suits their preferences and budget.
The base model comes equipped with a four-cylinder 2.0L engine delivering 147 horsepower, while the highest trim level features a turbocharged four-cylinder 1.6L engine with a robust 201 horsepower.
The 2022 Kia Soul is a front-wheel drive by default, offering an estimated combined MPG of 31, making it an efficient choice.
Inside the Soul, you’ll find a spacious cabin that can comfortably seat up to five people. Every trim level comes standard with a touchscreen infotainment system, ensuring a seamless technology experience.
With pricing ranging from $20,000 to $29,000, the 2022 Kia Soul offers an affordable yet stylish alternative to the Chevy Equinox.
14. Kia Sportage: Sleek and Compact SUV
For those seeking a sleek and compact crossover SUV, Kia’s 2021 Sportage is a compelling option. The 2021 Sportage offers a range of turbocharged engines, ensuring a blend of power and efficiency.
With four trim levels to choose from—LX, S, EX, and SX Turbo—buyers have flexibility in customizing their vehicle.
Front-wheel and all-wheel drive options are available, catering to different driving needs. Depending on your choice of engine, the combined city and highway MPG for the 2021 Sportage will range between 21 and 27, providing fuel-efficient options.
Inside the Sportage, you’ll discover a functional and stylish cabin that can comfortably seat up to five people.
All models come standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable tech experience.
With pricing ranging from $25,000 to $35,000, the 2021 Kia Sportage offers an attractive and practical alternative to the Equinox.
Related: Kia Sportage vs Nissan Rogue
15. Mazda CX-5: Stunning Compact Crossover
The 2021 Mazda CX-5 is a stunning compact crossover SUV known for its sleek design and luxurious interior.
With seven different trim levels: Sport, Touring, Carbon Edition, Grand Touring, Carbon Edition Turbo, Grand Touring Reserve, and Signature, the CX-5 offers a variety of options to cater to different preferences.
Buyers can choose between front-wheel and all-wheel drive, allowing for customization to suit various driving conditions. The standard CX-5 is equipped with a four-cylinder engine boasting 187 horsepower.
The front-wheel, non-turbocharged CX-5 models achieve a combined city and highway MPG of 28, providing a balance between power and efficiency.
Inside the CX-5, you’ll find a luxurious interior cabin with ample cargo space, setting it apart from competitors.
Every model comes standard with a 10.3-inch infotainment system, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable tech experience.
With pricing ranging from $26,000 to $39,000, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 offers a stylish and luxurious alternative to the Equinox.
Related: Mazda CX-5 vs Kia Seltos
16. Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: Feature-Packed Subcompact Crossover
Mitsubishi’s 2021 Outlander Sport is a subcompact crossover that’s packed with modern features and expected from a contemporary vehicle.
With six trim levels (S, ES, LE, SE, Black Edition, and GT), buyers have options to suit their preferences and needs.
There are two powertrain options available: a four-cylinder 2.0L engine with 148 horsepower and a 2.4L engine delivering 168 horsepower.
The 2021 Outlander Sport is available as an all-wheel drive, providing additional traction and control.
Depending on the chosen trim level, you can expect an average combined city and highway MPG ranging from 26 to 27.
Inside, the Outlander Sport features a stripped-back interior cabin that can seat up to five people.
With pricing ranging from $22,000 to $28,000, the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport offers an affordable and feature-packed alternative in the subcompact crossover segment.
Related: Mitsubishi Outlander vs Kia Sportage
17. Nissan Kicks: Stylish and Practical Compact SUV
The 2021 Nissan Kicks is a compact SUV that combines style with practicality. Nissan offers three different trim levels for the 2021 Kicks: S, SV, and SR.
Regardless of the trim level, all 2021 Kicks models come standard with a four-cylinder engine delivering 122 horsepower.
This sleek SUV also features all-wheel drive as standard, providing excellent traction and stability.
One of the standout features of the 2021 Nissan Kicks is its impressive fuel efficiency, with a combined city and highway MPG of 33.5.
Inside, the Kicks offers a spacious cabin capable of comfortably seating up to five people in two rows. The intuitive infotainment system further enhances the driving experience.
With pricing ranging from $20,000 to $24,000, the 2021 Nissan Kicks offers an affordable yet stylish alternative to the Chevy Equinox.
18. Nissan Rogue: Stylish Compact SUV with a Redesigned Look
The 2021 Nissan Rogue is a stylish and compact SUV that features a refreshed design compared to previous models.
Buyers can choose from four trim levels: S, SV, SL, and Platinum. The Rogue comes standard with a four-cylinder 2.5L engine, generating a robust 181 horsepower.
You have the flexibility to opt for either front-wheel or all-wheel drive, catering to your driving preferences.
Fuel efficiency is a strong point for the 2021 Rogue, with front-wheel-drive models achieving a combined MPG of 31, while all-wheel-drive versions offer a combined MPG of 29.5.
The well-thought-out interior cabin of the 2021 Rogue comfortably accommodates up to five passengers.
Pricing for the Rogue ranges from $27,000 to $37,000, making it a competitive choice in the compact SUV segment.
Related: Nissan Rogue vs Ford Escape
19. Nissan Rogue Sport: Fuel-Efficient Compact SUV
The 2021 Rogue Sport from Nissan is an excellent choice for those seeking a fuel-efficient and compact SUV.
Available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive, the Rogue Sport offers three trim levels. All 2021 Rogue Sport models are equipped with a 2.0L four-cylinder engine delivering 141 horsepower.
Fuel efficiency is another highlight of the Rogue Sport, with a combined MPG of 29. The interior cabin is remarkably spacious, comfortably seating up to five people.
The Rogue Sport also comes with a fantastic infotainment system and a range of safety features, making it a well-rounded package.
Depending on the chosen trim level, pricing for the 2021 Rogue Sport falls between $25,000 and $30,000, providing excellent value in the compact SUV category.
20. Subaru Crosstrek: Modern and Rugged Subcompact SUV
The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is a modern and rugged subcompact SUV that stands out in its class.
Buyers interested in this versatile vehicle can select from five different trim levels: Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Hybrid. As with all Subaru vehicles, the 2021 Crosstrek comes standard with all-wheel drive.
The base trim level of the Crosstrek features a four-cylinder engine with 152 horsepower and a combined city and highway MPG of 30.
Inside, the Crosstrek offers a stripped-back yet durable interior cabin that comfortably seats five people in two rows.
All models feature Subaru’s StarLink infotainment system, enhancing connectivity and entertainment.
Pricing for the 2021 Crosstrek ranges from $23,000 to $37,000, offering a wide range of options to suit different budgets and preferences.
21. Subaru Forester: Versatile and Compact SUV
Subaru’s 2021 Forester is a well-rounded SUV that offers versatility and compactness. Staying true to Subaru’s signature, the Forester comes standard with all-wheel drive, ensuring optimal traction and stability in various driving conditions.
Potential buyers can choose from five different trim levels: Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Touring.
Under the hood, the 2021 Forester boasts a capable four-cylinder 2.5L engine, delivering a respectable 182 horsepower.
Inside the cabin, functionality takes center stage, providing comfortable seating for five people in two rows.
The Forester’s generous cargo space and intuitive infotainment system make it an excellent choice for adventure enthusiasts.
Pricing for the 2021 Forester ranges from $25,000 to $36,000, making it a competitive alternative to the Chevy Equinox.
Related: Subaru Forester vs Toyota RAV4
22. Subaru Outback: A Blend of Station Wagon and SUV
If you’re seeking a vehicle that combines the best elements of a station wagon with the versatility of an SUV, the 2021 Subaru Outback is a compelling option.
The Outback offers an extensive lineup with eight trim levels: Base, Premium, Limited, Onyx Edition XT, Wilderness, Touring, Limited XT, and Touring XT.
Buyers have the choice of two powertrains—a 2.5L engine with 182 horsepower or a turbocharged 2.4L engine generating an impressive 260 horsepower.
Like other Subarus, the Outback includes all-wheel drive as standard, ensuring exceptional off-road capability.
Fuel efficiency varies depending on the engine choice, with non-turbocharged Outback models achieving a combined MPG of 29.5 and turbocharged models delivering 26.5.
Inside, the Outback offers a high-quality interior cabin with comfortable seating for up to five passengers.
Pricing for the 2021 Outback falls between $28,000 and $41,000, making it a versatile and attractive alternative to the Equinox.
23. Toyota RAV4: The Compact SUV for Everyone
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV designed to cater to a wide range of drivers. Toyota offers six trim levels for the 2021 RAV4: LE, XLE, XLE Premium, Adventure, Limited, and TRD Off-Road.
While traditionally a front-wheel drive, the 2021 RAV4 is now also available with all-wheel drive, enhancing its adaptability.
Powering the 2021 RAV4 is a four-cylinder 2.5L engine with a robust 203 horsepower, ensuring an engaging driving experience.
The RAV4’s fuel efficiency is commendable, with a combined MPG ranging from 28 to 35.
Despite its compact dimensions, this SUV prioritizes interior space, ensuring passengers have plenty of room to stretch out.
Lower trims feature a 7-inch infotainment system, while higher trims come equipped with an 8-inch display.
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 offers pricing options between $27,000 and $38,000, making it an accessible and well-rounded compact SUV.
Related: Toyota RAV4 vs Volvo XC40
24. Volkswagen Taos: Affordable Compact SUV
The 2022 Volkswagen Taos is a budget-friendly compact SUV designed to offer a blend of affordability and practicality. Volkswagen offers three trim levels for the 2022 Taos: S, SE, and SEL.
Under the hood, the Taos features a four-cylinder 1.5L turbocharged engine producing 158 horsepower.
Buyers have the flexibility to choose between front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations. Volkswagen estimates an impressive combined city and highway MPG of 32 for the 2022 Taos.
Visually, the Taos shares design elements with other vehicles in Volkswagen’s lineup, offering a cohesive and contemporary look.
Inside, the cabin is spacious, comfortably seating up to five passengers. Pricing for the 2022 Taos ranges from $24,000 to $33,000, making it an attractive and affordable alternative to the Equinox.
Related: Volkswagen Taos vs Audi Q3
25. Volkswagen Tiguan: Sportscar-Like Agility in an SUV
For drivers looking to combine SUV practicality with sportscar-like agility, the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan is an enticing choice.
Powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the Tiguan offers five trim levels: S, SE, SE R-Line Black, SEL, and SEL Premium R-Line.
Whether you prefer front-wheel or all-wheel drive, the 2021 Tiguan has you covered. The Tiguan’s powertrain delivers a combined highway and city MPG of 26, ensuring efficient and cost-effective driving.
Volkswagen’s signature interior styling shines through in the Tiguan, and buyers can opt for a two- or three-row SUV, depending on their needs.
A sleek touchscreen infotainment system ties the package together, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Pricing for the 2021 Tiguan ranges from $26,000 to $41,000, offering a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences.
With its sportscar-like agility, the Tiguan is a standout competitor to the Chevy Equinox, providing an exciting alternative for SUV enthusiasts.
Related: Volkswagen Tiguan vs BMW X5
FAQs
Is Equinox’s car worth it?
Considering Equinox’s performance and fuel efficiency, it may not offer the best value when compared to similar models like the Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, and Toyota RAV4.
It’s important to assess your priorities and preferences before deciding if Equinox is worth the investment.
What year of the Equinox is bad?
If safety is a top concern, it’s advisable to steer clear of the 2005-2007 Equinox model years due to potential issues.
How long does Chevy Equinox last?
Well-maintained Chevy Equinox vehicles can last up to 200,000 miles or more, providing excellent long-term value to their owners.
Even if not in perfect condition, they can easily reach 150,000 miles or approximately 10 years of use.
Are Chevy Equinox expensive to maintain?
The cost of maintaining a Chevrolet Equinox over its first decade of service is estimated at around $8,616, which compares favorably to the industry average for popular SUV models.
However, there is a roughly 26.05% chance that an Equinox may require a major repair during that time, so it’s important to budget for potential unforeseen expenses.
Final Thoughts: Chevy Equinox Competitors
In conclusion, when searching for Chevy Equinox competitors, the compact SUV market provides a wealth of options to meet various preferences and priorities.
From efficient subcompact crossovers to versatile mid-size SUVs and even luxurious compact models, there’s no shortage of alternatives to consider.
Each of these vehicles brings its own distinctive blend of style, performance, and features, catering to a wide range of tastes and needs.
Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, ample cargo space, seating capacity, or staying within a specific budget, there’s a suitable choice among these contenders.
Ultimately, finding the perfect compact SUV to match your lifestyle and driving requirements may require test drives and in-depth research.
With such an extensive selection available, you’re certain to discover a vehicle that’s a compelling alternative to the cars similar to Chevy Equinox.
