Compact SUVs are easy to maneuver, fuel-efficient, and affordable. If one is looking for a vehicle in this segment, they can consider the Chevrolet Equinox. This model, although compact, has a roomy cabin that can seat five people comfortably. It also has useful safety equipment and a powerful turbo engine that lets one zip in and out of traffic. Despite offering many benefits, the 2024 Equinox SUV’s price is competitive.

External design
One of the main reasons why the Chevrolet Equinox is coveted is its appearance. The vehicle’s revamped version has an elegant design that helps it stand out in the compact SUV market. The Premier variant, in particular, looks sporty, with redesigned LED headlights, new bumpers, a new grille with chrome details, new LED signature tail lamps, and new 19-inch alloy wheels with a distinctive two-tone diamond finish.

The RS variant may not have all the exclusive design elements of the Premier variant, but it still makes heads turn. This trim features a radiant red color and a gloss black trim. The grille, bumpers, wheels, and roof rack are painted black instead of chrome to give the vehicle a sportier feel.

One can also consider the all-electric Chevrolet Equinox EV. This variant has a slightly more radical design, featuring narrow tapering headlamps and tail lamps, a slightly more crouched silhouette, and an attractive two-tone body paint.

Interiors and storage space
The cabin’s ambiance can differ based on the trim. For instance, the Chevrolet Equinox RS has a vivid theme characterized by leather-wrapped seats with red stitching and a black-colored roof. The Premier version, on the other hand, has a more conventional cabin with panels made using high-quality leather, plastics, and wood. In the EV, one will find strategically distributed cargo compartments, customizable ambient lighting, a large 17.7-inch infotainment screen, and electric seats with heating, all of which add to the interior’s elegance.

Regardless of the variant one chooses, one can be assured of getting premium upholstery seats that strike a balance between being firm and soft. The seats remain comfortable even after sitting for several hours at a stretch. Features like the multi-zone climate control, powerful audio system with multiple speakers, adjustable seats, and automatic trunk that opens when one passes their foot near the sensor increase convenience.

Despite being a compact SUV, the Chevrolet Equinox offers plenty of headroom, leg room, knee room, shoulder room, and hip room on both rows. One can fold down the second row of seats to maximize the boot space to 1,627 liters in the non-EV versions. The large number of cubby holes and pockets in the cabin make it easier for people to store their belongings like mobile phones, water bottles, and wallets.

Engine and performance
The standard non-EV variants of the 2024 Equinox SUV have a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine that produces about 172 horsepower and around 27.8 kgfm of torque. These numbers are quite impressive for a compact SUV. Both variants have a top speed of 196 kmph and a 0 to 100 kmph time of 9.2 seconds. Depending on their convenience, buyers can choose between a six-speed automatic gearbox and a manual gear shifter. In the RS variant, the power is sent to the front wheels, while the Premier variant has an option to choose between all-wheel and front-wheel drive.

The car offers excellent performance and is still fuel-efficient. The fuel efficiency can range from 9 kmpl to 10.8 kmpl depending on the terrain and driving patterns.

Ride and handling
The car’s overall driving dynamics are geared toward comfort rather than outright sportiness. One of the more underrated Chevrolet Equinox features is its suspension system. The front suspension is an independent McPherson system with a coil spring, while the rear suspension is a multi-link system with a coil spring. These ensure the vehicle remains largely stable and steady at any speed.

In addition to an efficient suspension system, the car has a responsive steering wheel that makes driving easy on busy roads.

Safety equipment
The 2024 Equinox SUV provides a long list of safety and driver-assistance features. While some are standard, others are optional and must be purchased by paying extra.

• Rear camera for parking assistance
• Parking sensors
• Electronic stability control
• Traction control
• Automatic descent control
• Hill-start assist
• Rear window defroster
• Autonomous emergency braking
• Anti-lock braking systems 
• Disc brakes for all the wheels
• Daytime running lights
• Blind-spot alert
• Lane-keep assist
• Three-point seatbelts for all occupants
• Airbags for all passengers

Convenience features
The SUV has several features that make the ride more convenient and enjoyable.

• Panoramic sunroof
• Vehicle infotainment system
• In-built internet
• GPS navigation
• Depth-adjustable steering wheel
• Electrically adjustable and foldable rearview mirrors

Variants and pricing
The non-EV standard 2024 Equinox SUV has two variants: Premier and RS. The RS variant starts at R$ 227,990 (exclusive Radiant Red color with aerodynamic exterior lines), while the Premier variant starts at R$ 249,990, including the active safety package, AWD, and some added comfort features. One can compare the features of the available trims and choose an option that fits their budget and preferences.