2023 Chevy Equinox: New Chevy Equinox Small SUV Crossover Review

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2023 Chevy Equinox appears to be a capable mainstream compact SUV. It offers many features even in the base LS trim, including myriad safety technologies, heated power side mirrors, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, and LED headlamps with auto high beam function. The Equinox design is harmless; a small refresh on the looks rolled out for the 2022 model year improves it.

It offers a large-sized interior with plenty of space for passengers and ample cargo space. Underneath it’s a more pleasant chassis than you might expect, but the Equinox’s anemic turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine limits how much driving enjoyment can be had with the 3650-pound crossover.

In reality, the Equinox is bland and harmless compared to many of the flavorful compact SUVs it competes with, including star models such as the Mazda CX-50, Honda CR-V, Volkswagen Tiguan, and Ford Bronco Sport. That doesn’t stop Equinox from being one of the best sellers of this large class. The public appreciates Equinox’s inoffensive combination of space, features, and price enough to overlook its sleepy performance and down-to-earth personality.

For the 2023 model year, the Chevrolet Equinox sees only minor tweaks, including the addition of 5 horsepower for the 1.5-liter turbo, which makes up to 175 ponies; torque remains the same at 203 pound-feet of revs. Three of the eight available paint colors are new this year as is the switch from the conventional vacuum-powered brake system to an electronic assist system that Chevrolet calls “E-boost”. Chevy also launched Sport and Midnight edition models for the base LS trim level.

2023 Chevy Equinox Review

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox is a capable compact SUV. That’s faint praise, but it’s tough out there with so many great rivals. Prices start at $26,300. There must be a way to make the 2023 Equinox more interesting. After all, compact SUVs are big sales. Some even have all-wheel drive as standard, while others offer a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

2023 Chevy Equinox

But it seems that Chevrolet is quite happy for the Equinox, which is making its debut for the 2018 model year, to languish in the “fine” class backwater. Prices are pretty reasonable, but getting most of the convenience and safety features one wants means buying the most expensive trim, or at least hitting the list of options pretty hard.

Driver attractiveness is not an attribute. The Equinox received a boost of just five horsepower this year. Strong resale value? Honda, Toyota, and Subaru have all of that.

There are Chevrolet fans, people who were raised in families where driving a Chevy was a choice everyone made. Those folks, they’ll probably do just fine with the new Equinox SUV. But many rivals have a lot more going for them.

There’s no shortage of attractive small SUVs, and the 2023 Chevrolet Equinox competes in tight terrain against benchmarks like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. But the stylish design makes it stand out, with flowing surface lines, standard LED headlamps, and a classic front-end look.

Buyers who want a bit of an edge can opt for the new Midnight and Sport packages, which incorporate gloss black wheels and blackened exterior trim. Both should be cheaper than the existing RS trim, which offers a similar look but with more features and options. (Chevy hasn’t announced pricing for the package yet.)

For 2023, the Equinox also gets a little more bang for the buck under the hood, with an additional 5 horsepower from the four-cylinder engine. We haven’t come across a turbo engine that’s quite lively yet, so hopefully, the extra power will inject the Equinox a bit more. We’ll let you know once we test it.

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The Equinox faces stiff competition, and its tiny cargo space, lackluster cabin, and sluggish performance don’t sway the class leaders. We think most small SUV buyers would be better off choosing the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, or Mazda CX-5.

  • Smooth ride on most road surfaces
  • Stable and precise handling
  • The simple and intuitive infotainment system
  • The standard engine has 5 horsepower more
  • The Midnight and Sport edition packs are added to the list of options
  • Spacious rear legroom
  • Apple CarPlay/Android Auto wireless
  • Easy-to-use infotainment setup
  • Upgraded engine
  • Improved brakes
  • Changes in package options
  • Midnight Edition for the LS trim

2023 Chevy Equinox Exterior

The exterior design of the 2023 Equinox reveals more about this compact SUV than ever intended. It doesn’t matter. That’s the score that Equinox achieved in almost every category.

The Base LS comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, and each version has LED headlamps. The new optional Midnight Edition cosmetic package for the LS adds black exterior elements, including 18-inch alloy wheels.

The range is getting a few new colors this year: Radiant Red Tintcoat, Sterling Gray Metallic, and Harvest Bronze Metallic.

2023 Chevy Equinox Interior and Cargo

The Equinox cabin is tastefully appointed and assembled from durable materials. Passengers in the front and rear seats will find comfort in the spacious interior, with enough amenities to keep them satisfied on longer journeys.

2023 Chevy Equinox

The cabin has plenty of cupholders, but most of the interior luxuries are offered as optional equipment on 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 luggage in there. Apart from ample center console storage, Equinox’s cabin storage is only mediocre.

Comfort

One minor change for the 2023 Equinox SUV is the wrapped steering wheel, which is optional on the RS and standard on the Premier trim. Since Chevy doesn’t mention “skin” in the same sentence, let’s assume this wrapper is a simulated item.

Fabric upholstery is used on the LS and LT, with the RS ad Premier getting perforated leather. The 7-inch touchscreen infotainment is another aspect of the lower trims, with an 8-inch version offered as an option, or part of the Premier trim’s standard inventory.

The new Safety and Infotainment package for the LT and RS versions features adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera system, an 8-inch infotainment screen, navigation, and (for some reason) a heated steering wheel.

It’s technically a 5-seater compact SUV, but the middle spot in the back row isn’t going to be popular with anyone. Rear legroom, however, is 39.9 inches, which is very good for its class.

Cargo space isn’t that impressive, with 29.6 cubic feet unlocking to 63.9 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded. But owners should still be able to fit in a lot of luggage or whatever else they want to take with them.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 7.0-inch touchscreen (optional 8.0-inch units) displays the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment interface above the Equinox dashboard; the system continues to impress with its ease of use and quick response.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, as are Bluetooth mobile and audio streaming, USB connectivity, and an auxiliary input jack. The 4G LTE standard onboard Wi-Fi makes the Equinox one of the best-connected crossovers around.

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2023 Chevy Equinox Driving

Mechanical changes to the 2023 Equinox compact SUV include a small increase in engine output, and the brakes are upgraded with electronic boosters – not that we have any complaints about last year’s brake system.

Have no complaints about how the Chevy Equinox drives. Everything works as it should, even if the engine will never blow many socks. And wisely, the suspension is tuned for everyday comfort instead of the occasional backroad blast. Maximum towing capability is 3,500 pounds.

2023 Chevy Equinox Engine & Transmission

The slight upgrade for one engine in the Chevy Equinox SUV range brings a modest increase of five horsepower. The output is now 175 horsepower, through a 6-speed automatic transmission. Torque remains at 203 lb-ft.

Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard, and all-wheel drive (AWD) is optional. Ordinary gasoline is acceptable. These fuel economy estimates from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are tied to 2022, but there shouldn’t be a significant difference in 2023.

  • 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4
  • 175 horsepower @ 5,600 rpm
  • Torsi 203 lb-ft @ 2.000-4.000 rpm
  • EPA city/highway fuel economy: 26/31 mpg (FWD), 25/30 mpg (AWD)

Performance

Underpowered and often out of breath, the turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine isn’t going to win fans over with its sluggish performance, and it’s the only offering for the Equinox. The upgraded I-4 makes 175 horsepower, and when paired with the optional (and heavier) all-wheel drive system (front-wheel drive is standard), it takes a heavy leg to accelerate the Equinox to highway speeds.

The six-speed automatic shifts smoothly, although it’s reluctant to downshift when extra power is needed because it’s geared toward fuel economy (pun intended). Fun and easy to drive, the Equinox handles competently, and the steering is accurate and direct.

Travel can be difficult at times, especially with the optional 19-inch (17 or 18 standards) wheels, and the rougher stretches of the road send some discomfort into the cabin. The Chevy can also tow up to 3,500 pounds, if properly equipped.

2023 Chevy Equinox MPG and Fuel Savings

The EPA estimates that the front-wheel drive Equinox will produce 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Adding all-wheel drive reduces the ratings by 2 and 1 mpg respectively.

2023 Chevy Equinox

We tested the previous 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 Equinox’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.

2023 Chevy Equinox Favorite Feature

1. Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto

Standard across all lines, means integrating a smartphone without having to reach into your pocket or wallet first.

2. Easy-to-use infotainment system

The Chevrolet setup is easy and intuitive. And it comes with Wi-Fi as standard.

3. All-wheel drive

Granted, it’s a common choice across the compact SUV class — the Mazda CX-50 and Subaru Forester even have it as standard. But it’s not just winter where all-wheel drive traction and grip can be appreciated.

4. OnStar

It provides things like emergency service calls, roadside assistance, and vehicle diagnostics. A 5-year subscription is included with every new Equinox SUV.

5. Hands-free rear door operation

A foot wave near the sensor (under the rear bumper) will activate the rear door opening. Unfortunately, it’s only included with the top Premier trim. It wasn’t until the RS trim that a powered tailgate became available.

6. Safety Alert Seat

With a vibrating seat cushion, it warns the driver of approaching danger. Something coming from the left will trigger the left side of the chair and vice versa. Exclusive to Premier trim.

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2023 Chevy Equinox Models

The 2023 Equinox comes in four trim levels: LS, LT, RS, and Premier. Each is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine (175 horsepower, 203 lb-ft of torque) mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional.

LS

The Equinox base is equipped with:

  • 17-inch rims
  • LED headlights with automatic high beam
  • Keyless entry and push-button ignition
  • Heated outside mirrors
  • 7-inch touch screen
  • Six-speaker audio system
  • Satellite Radio
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration (with wireless connectivity)
  • I want a USB port
  • Hotspot Wifi 4G LTE

Equinox also comes standard with driver aids such as:

  • Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and brakes in certain scenarios)
  • Lane-keeping assistance (steers Equinox back on track if it starts hovering over a lane marker)
  • Back seat reminder (warns you to check the back seat before getting out of the vehicle)
    Automatic high beam

The Midnight and Sport editions are the two new packages available for this year’s LS and LT trims. Both share the same features, the only difference being the Midnight Edition’s metallic black exterior paint. Both plans include:

  • 18-inch gloss black wheels
  • Front and back black badges
  • Homebody color mirror

LT

Our recommended trim levels add:

  • LS Comfort Package
  • Added chrome exterior trim and body color
  • Remote rear seat folding lever
  • Luminous sunscreen

RS

Has more standard features and a more sporty appearance thanks to:

  • Features of the Confidence & Convenience LT package
  • Black-painted 19-inch wheels
  • Black interior with red stitching
  • Unique shift key
  • Electric lift door
  • Roof rails

Trim RS offers a unique RS Leather package with:

  • Leather seats
  • Seven-speaker Bose sound system
  • Many LT options and packages are also available for the RS, including Safety and Infotainment
  • package and a blind spot warning system with rear traffic warning.

Premier

Includes all LT content, plus the Confidence & Convenience package. It also adds:

  • 18-inch wheels
  • Hands-free Liftgate
  • Ambient cabin lighting
  • Wireless charging pad
  • 120-volt power jack
  • 8-inch touch screen
  • Improved backup camera
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Driver’s seat memory settings
  • Leather seats
  • Front and rear parking sensors
  • Blind spot warning with a rear cross-traffic warning (warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or when backing up)

2023 Chevy Equinox Color

2023 Chevy Equinox Colors at Broadway Automotive and we are excited to share the many different color options! This stylish crossover SUV has 11 different colors that customers can choose from. Each of the available colors is listed below!

  • Pacific Blue Metallic
  • Nightfall Gray Metallic
  • Satin Steel Metallic
  • Silver Ice Metallic
  • Chocolate Metallic
  • Summit White
  • Mosaic Black Metallic
  • Midnight Blue Metallic
  • Cayenne Orange Metallic
  • Cajun Red Tintcoat
  • Iridescent Pearl Tricoat

2023 Chevy Equinox Price

KBB reports that the 2023 Chevrolet Equinox compact SUV starts at $26,300, plus a destination fee. That’s for the LS trim with front-wheel drive. The next trim levels are LT, RS, and Premier. This top trim level is priced at $ 31,500. All-wheel drive is an additional $1,600 for either version.

2023 Chevy Equinox

A fully equipped Premier model with premium paint, bigger wheels, a sunroof, and a few other goodies can run close to $40K.

The competition is fierce and there is a lot of it, but Equinox’s prices are quite high. The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are in the $28K region, the Mazda CX-50 and Hyundai Tucson are more like $27K, while the Subaru Forester (with all-wheel drive as standard) and the Kia Sportage start at around $26K.

While the Equinox lineup includes the value-packed base LS model as well as the Premier which tops the list we’d go for the mid-range RS. Standard features include blind spot monitoring, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a power liftgate, rear cross-traffic warning, and remote start.

You can get similar content on the LT by adding the Confidence and Comfort packages, but we prefer the darkened RS trim and think they justify the price difference between the two.

  • LS $27,995
  • LT $29,095
  • RS $32,095
  • Premier $33,195

2023 Chevrolet Equinox SUV Specs

  • Body style: SUV
  • MSRP: From $26,600
  • Engine: 1.5 L 4-cylinder
  • Dimensions: 183″ L x 73″ W x 65″ H
  • Cargo volume: 29.9 ft³, 63.9 ft³ with seat area
  • Horsepower: 175 hp

People also ask about Chevy Equinox 2023

Q: Will there be a 2023 equinox?
A: What’s New for 2023? For the 2023 model year, the Chevrolet Equinox sees only minor tweaks, including the addition of 5 horsepower for the 1.5-liter turbo, which makes up to 175 ponies; torque remains the same at 203 pound-feet of revs.

Q: What are the new colors for 2023 Equinox?
A: The 2023 Chevy Equinox adds three new exterior colors to its palette: Radiant Red Tintcoat, Sterling Gray Metallic, and Harvest Bronze Metallic

Q: Is the 2022 Chevy Equinox worth buying?
A: Is the 2022 Chevy Equinox worth buying? Yes, the 2022 Chevy Equinox is an excellent option to consider over rival SUVs. It offers plenty of passenger space for the family, a long list of standard technologies, and agile performance for everyday driving.

Q: What is the future of the Chevy Equinox?
A: The Chevy Equinox crossover received mid-cycle upgrades (otherwise known as an update, refresh, or facelift) for the 2022 model year, with the current 2023 model year introducing only a few updates and changes compared to the fully refreshed 2022 model.