2019 Chevrolet Equinox Review: Not that Competitive Overall, and While Cheap at Entry Trims, Things Get Costly Quick

Nov 8, 2021

The 2019 Chevrolet Equinox has largely been overlooked for cheaper SUVs on the low end and more powerful SUVs on the high end. But is this compact worth a second look? That depends on how much you like Chevy, as compared to the competition, it sits somewhere in the middle overall

The Good

The 2019 Chevrolet Equinox is a pretty decent daily driver, it’s affordable, dependable, and has a diverse engine lineup and responsive handling, and sports a decent look.

The Bad

The 2019 Equinox doesn’t stand out much from other compact SUVs. It doesn’t deliver as much luxury as the Hyundai Santa Fe, power of the Ford Escape, or overall quality of the CR-V.

The Bottom Line

The 2019 Equinox isn’t a bad car by any means. But it’s pretty underwhelming, lacking a hook to really get excited about. Especially with rivals as fierce as they are.

Positive Owner Reviews

Joyce B

Smart looking comfortable and.

It is easy to handle, just the right size, comfortable interior, easy to use devices, and amenity. Good gas mileage, handles well in the city and on expressways and highways. Looks more expensive than it is. Rich, beautiful colors. Interior is comfortable for five passengers. Plenty of legroom. Very comfortable for long drives.

Sherry M

Perfect for this busy mom!

This is a perfect car for a family. I can haul children, sporting equipment, and still have room to spare. It is a perfect fit for me and my family. It drives great and gets incredible gas mileage. It is dependable and is a comfortable vehicle to ride in.

Jamie B

Perfect vehicle for our little family.

We purchased a new Chevy equinox in 2019 after searching and researching various automobiles for 6 months. My husband and I were expanding our little family to not only include our very large dog, but we were expecting our first little bundle of joy. Immediately we knew we needed not only a larger vehicle, but one that provided comfort and unconditional safety for our entire family. The equinox was the perfect answer! All of the updated safety and collision features combined with a sleek design, comfortable heated seats, temperature control for both driver and passenger, a large open trunk space, and plenty of room to comfortably place a car seat; not to mention a stroller and all the additions!

Danelle B

The equinox is great to own.

When I shop for cars I look for something I could fit my family in comfortably. This car is very spacious. It's great on gas and it easy to drive especially during the wintertime. The OnStar and Wi-Fi feature is always a plus. This is definitely a family vehicle.

Samantha G

My favorite car so far- perfect for anybody whether for a family or car fanatic.

No problems! Drives smoothly and very efficient. Inside is very comfortable with lots of room for seating and storage. One downside is how like the car is when actually driving, although it doesn't bother me since I listen to the radio, when in silence it can get annoying. Not anything to worry over fortunately.

Backup camera

Too dark

When I’m in reverse, and a shadow is cast on the backup camera, I cannot see a thing. Is this a known issue?

Jordan W

The air conditioning works well.

I do not have many problems with my vehicle. Everything runs really good. The only issues I have is sometimes it has a slow acceleration but otherwise works really well. I love the air conditioning and also all the other features with the touch screen for radio and hands free phone calls.

Lori J

Love it and highly recommend.

Great car get up and go and awesome gas mileage. Highly recommend this vehicle to everyone. What else do you want to know. Love it. No problems in the first 10,000 miles and 18 months that I have driven it, roomy, comfortable. Minimal features but enough for the driving I do.

Negative Owner Reviews

Shirley cleve

Gas

Told my cold start and rumbling in morning is due to Canadian tire gas not right content. Another owner had same and told emissions problem. Never was this gas mentioned at lease. Still dealing withGM over the issue as offered gas card to help make up for gas price. If that is the problem what happens when gas coupon runs out. I go back to can tire and resume with problem.

Julie T.

Absolutely hate this 2019 Equinox with a passion!

I used to own a 2011 Chevy Equinox and loved it except it had a problem with excessive oil consumption which I got a letter a bit ago that there is a law suit for that exact problem that people had to keep paying out of pocket to repair. After I had to keep sinking money into I decided to buy a 2020 a equinox and I’ve hated the d**n thing the first month I had it. Kept having problems with CarPlay I continue to have problems with blue tooth which I have not been able to fix despite trying everything that was suggested to fix it. I had a recall the first month I owned it. I had that protective coating applied to supposedly help prevent scratches which is absolute bull. This car scratches more easily than any other car I’ve owned with no protective coating. It’s much smaller than my 2011 Equinox. I have no idea why I haven’t traded it in for another car at Honda or Toyota. I hate this car .. I hate this car!!!! I am getting all the scratches fixed and get rid of this price of c**p!

Ginger T

Chevy shake' and helicopter noise.

Cannot put rear windows down because of excessive vibration and a 'sound like a helicopter in car' it is called the 'Chevy shake' nothing can be done except keep windows up. Chevy says its aerodynamics and nothing can be done. For over $30,000 that sounds like a cop out.

Kkal

48,000 Headache

Overall we thought this was the best vehicle for her family. After only a month of having it the touchless hatch stopped working the check engine light comes on the vehicle revs up high randomly. Was told it can’t handle the -30-40 in the winter still do not have a fix for it. Was told to wait till the fall and hopefully Chec Canada has a recall for it. Took it to BC had issues with it there. I got all the fixes made under warranty which is fine but I just want to use the hatch again and it no longer works. They told me that the hatch is screwing Took it to BC had issues with it there. I got all the fixes made under warranty which is fine but I just want to use the hatch again and it no longer works. They told me that the hatch is screwing up because I drive on great roads which I do not do I’ll go on them maybe once or twice.hello we live in Canada this vehicle should be able to tolerate the weather plus drive on good roads every now and then. Get real Wheaton! They told me I should get mudflaps they told me I should get mudflaps for my warrantee is going to be a void, If you’re selling a 2019 vehicle without mudflaps that requires mudflaps why are you not putting these on if you’re selling a 2019 vehicle without mudflaps that requires mudflaps why are you not putting these on a vehicle before you sell it? That being said I do not recommend it to anyone. We were Ford colours for 10 years now and I will not switch any vehicle with you have that being said I do not recommend it to anyone. We were Ford goers for 10 years now and this was the worst mistake we have made.

Janah M

Good bad and ugly, Chevy equinox.

Just smaller and have a hard time fitting a stroller and groceries in it together. Do not like the bench. Seat in the back for two car seats. The stop to start feature is annoying and takes longer to accelerate! The front of the vehicle is not spacious for bigger or taller people.

Katie P

Uncomfortable seat for long drives.

I drive about 60 miles or 1 hour to and from work-home. The driver seat for me is growing more and more uncomfortable. I had to purchase a neck cushion that attaches to the headrest. The windshield has a weird angle which makes my astigmatism angry with night driving, never had an issue in any previous vehicle.

Jaime B

The amenities do not match up with the price.

Bluetooth doesn't work. Dog hair gets embedded in the seats. Sits too low on the ground for an SUV. While the car is super quick, that doesn't make up for the lack of everything else. I pay $60 more a month for this vehicle than my last one and to me, it's half the car I used to have. I was sold on a much nicer vehicle than what I got in my opinion.

Rob S

Chevrolet equinox litany of electrical problems.

This vehicle was made with the cheapest parts they could source from china. Numerous issues with the turbocharger cooling. It has less than 40,000 miles and has spent more time in the shop than my 8 year old Mitsubishi. Tone of electrical issues and the radio has gone out a couple of times and when it does, you cannot play music, make calls or do anything controlled by the touchscreen.

Key Points

The 2019 Equinox is available with three engines, a 1.5L, 1.6L turbo-diesel, and a 2.0L, but the last two are exclusive to the pricier trim levels.
All models for 2019, except the entry-level L, are available in all-wheel drive, but AWD is wasted on the base 1.5L engine as it doesn’t have the power of the upper 2.0L.
The 2019 Equinox’s fuel economy is about as good as it gets outside of hybrid and all-electric vehicles, with a turbo-diesel going up to 28/38 city/highway in a front-wheel-drive model.
The 2019 Equinox has a near-perfect safety score with both the IIHS and the NHTSA, but was not awarded a Top Safety Pick like the year after it.
Compared to rivals, the Equinox falls somewhere in the middle. Ultimately it just can’t compete with the Hyundai Santa Fe if you’re ok spending at least $25,000 or so.

Pick from Four Available Trim Levels, from the Entry-level L to the Feature-rich Premier, with Prices Ranging from about $18,000 to $44,000

2019 Chevrolet Equinox - Photo by Chevrolet

For the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox, GM kept things nice and simple with just four trim levels ranging from the base L to the luxurious Premier. Pricing ranges from a low of $18,800 to a high of about $44,000.

170 HP 28 MPG

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170 HP 27 MPG

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137 HP 32 MPG

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Premier

137 HP 32 MPG

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Equinox L Sports a Standard Seven-inch Screen and Backup Camera, Making it a Decently-equipped Entry Trim

The L is your basic entry-level SUV trim. You’re getting all of the basic features, but not much extra. It’s a fair deal for the price, with a Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system with a seven-inch touchscreen, Chevy 4G LTE, rearview camera, OnStar, and Teen Driver mode.

The basic features and gadgets onboard the L are nothing to write home about, sure, but, for the price, they’re nothing to complain about, either.

Kelley Blue Book puts the average pricing for an L between $18,800 and $21,300, depending on miles and condition.

Equinox LS Adds the Option of AWD, a Necessity for Some, as Well as a Few Extra Creature Comforts and Practical Upgrades

For the most part, the LS is a modest upgrade for a modest price bump. You get a spare tire and a first aid kit, keyless entry, some rear splash guards, and a universal tablet holder. What really justifies the difference in price is that the L is only available in FWD, while the LS is available in front or AWD.

KBB shows the pricing for an LS Equinox to sit somewhere between $20,900 to $23,500, with the biggest cost difference being whether the unit is AWD or not.

Equinox LT Introduces the Optional 1.6L Diesel and Adds a Few Niceties and Powertrain Upgrades

The LT is where we start getting some more engine options, including the 1.6L turbo-diesel. The LT also offers a few upgrades in the exterior, like stronger headlights, and some bonuses inside like an eight-way power seat for the driver.

You’ll notice the price bump, which averages about $8,000 more than the LS, but thankfully, with the more powerful engine options, you’ll know exactly where that money went. Pricing should run from $28,000 or so to roughly $31,000

Equinox Premier Basically Offers Everything on the List, but at a Major Cost, as Much as $44,000

The top of the line trim. The Premier includes all the quality-of-life upgrades you’ll find in the LT, but with a bunch of extra features like heated seats up front, fog lamps, hands-free liftgate, rear park assist, and a universal home remote, for starters. You’re also getting a lot more aluminum, leather, and chrome throughout the interior and exterior of the vehicle.

The Premier is by far the priciest Equinox, averaging a little over twice the cost of the L. KBB shows a Fair Purchase Price somewhere between about $40,200 to just over $44,000.

2019 Chevrolet Equinox: Engine Options, Fuel Economy, and Performance

The 2019 Chevrolet Equinox is available with three different engines.

The base engine is a 1.5L turbo I4. Basic, but it more than gets the job done at 170 horsepower and 203 lb.-ft. of torque. This one is available in all four trim levels.

Next is the 2.0L turbo, another I4, available in the LT and Premier trim levels. This engine is what you want if you’d prefer a sports car, but you need something that fits three kids. At 252 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, the 2.0 is plenty quick.

Finally, you’ve got the 1.6L turbo-diesel I4, available in the LT and Premier. At 137 horsepower and 240 lb.-ft. of torque, this one matches the 1.5L for towing capacity at 1,500 pounds, while the 2.0L goes up to 3,500.

No matter what your engine and trim level, the base transmission is going to be a six-speed automatic. And that’s a conventional six-speed automatic, not a CVT. This can be upgraded to a nine-speed in the LT and Premier trim levels.

There’s No Beating the 39-mpg Highway Rating of the Diesel Engine, but Even the Thirstiest Option Squeezes Out an Average of 24

The 2019 Equinox is very fuel-efficient according to official EPA reports, at its best delivering 28 mpg around town and 39 on the highway when equipped with the 1.6L diesel.

The least costly (but still efficient) engine is the 1.5L, which puts out 26 city mpg, 32 highway in FWD models, dropping to 25 and 30 with AWD.

The thirstiest of them all, the 2.0L, rests at 22 high and 28 city when equipped with AWD. With FWD models, that number raises to 22/29.

To help keep the distance until empty similar, FWD models get a 14.9-gallon fuel tank, where AWD gets you 15.6.

Rugged, Easy to Drive, Accurate and Direct, but Best when Configured with the 2.0L and AWD

With the 2019 Equinox, performance is all about knowing your limitations. With a 1.5L or a 1.6L turbo-diesel engine and FWD, it’s a capable compact SUV. The acceleration isn’t the best, but if you’re a fan of Japanese hatchbacks and Honda SUVs, you know what to expect from the responsive handling.

The model’s rugged suspension and tight steering have earned high praise from reviewers, with Car and Driver calling the SUV “Agreeable and easy to drive, the Equinox handles competently, and its steering is accurate and direct.” But he adds, “the ride is a bit harsh, particularly with the optional 19-inch wheels (17s or 18s are standard), and rougher stretches of road translate some unpleasantness into the cabin.”

Overall, the 2019 Equinox may be the perfect car for you, if you keep your expectations realistic. At the base level, it’s a capable daily driver, but not much more. With the sporty 2.0L engine under the hood, you get the extra oomph, with the option of AWD as well.

2019 Equinox: A Spacious SUV for Front and Rear Passengers, and Enough Cargo Space to Run Just About Any Errand

2019 Chevrolet Equinox - Photo by Chevrolet

Words like “compact” and “mid-size” feel kind of arbitrary these days. The EPA classifies the 2019 Equinox as a “small SUV,” but there’s really no telling what that means unless you actually look at the physical dimensions. So how big is it?

Basic dimensions: length is 183-inches, width is 73, and height is 65. Front passengers will enjoy 40.9-inches of legroom and 38.2-inches of headroom when equipped with a sunroof, raising to 40-inches without.

Rear passengers get 39.7-inches of legroom, and 36.9 of headroom when equipped with a sunroof, or 38.5 without.

The SUV seats five across all options and trims, with cargo capacity ranging from 29.9 cu. ft. with seats up to 63.9 cu. ft. with the seats down.

2019 Equinox Scored Perfect Five Stars for Safety but Didn’t Snag the Coveted ‘Top Safety Pick’ Award

2019 Chevrolet Equinox - Photo by Chevrolet

The 2019 Chevrolet Equinox has a near-perfect safety rating with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, earning five out of five stars in every single category except for rollover, where it earned four stars. The SUV did not tip in the NHTSA crash tests but showed an 18.50% rollover risk.

This is about average for SUVs, even compacts. The build of a sports utility vehicle is top-heavy by default, so no matter how high the SUV scores in every other category, you rarely see five stars for rollover.

The SUV earned similar marks with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, with a G for Good in almost every category. The SUV earned an A for Acceptable on structure and safety cage, passenger leg injury, and child seat anchors (which the IIHS found to be safe, but not very intuitive to use). They scored an M for Marginal on headlights, and earned extra commendations thanks to optional front-crash prevention features like blindspot detection and a lane-departure warning system.

While the 2020 Equinox earned the Top Safety Pick, the 2019 model came up short thanks to a handful of A ratings.

Technology Features in the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox are Extensive Even in Base Trims, but for the Most Advanced Safety Tech, the Premier is the Choice

2019 Chevrolet Equinox - Photo by Chevrolet

The L and LS models offer your basic entry-level radio setup for entertainment gadgets. Seven-inch touchscreen, six speakers, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Chevrolet 4G LTE with built-in WiFi hotspot. A decent lineup, but pretty basic. The LT adds wireless device charging. And the Premier upgrades the touchscreen to an eight-inch HD.

The Infotainment suite isn’t terrible, but it’s a little underwhelming, even in the higher trim levels. If you can find a model with the Infotainment II package, that would add a seven-speaker Bose HD radio setup, but that’s about as exciting as it gets.

Standard safety tech includes:

Backup camera
Teen Driver mode
StabiliTrak
Daytime running lamps
10-year subscription to Chevrolet Connected Access

Optional features include rear park assist, lane change alert, forward collision alert, front pedestrian braking, and following distance indicator, and the Premier even adds an HD backup camera.

The 2019 Chevrolet Equinox Offers 14 Exciting Exterior Colors and Several Matching Interior Schemes

2019 Chevrolet Equinox - Photo by Chevrolet

In terms of stock color options, the 2019 Equinox is one of the more varied compact SUVs on the market today with a total of 14. You have your standard dirt-hiding tones like Storm Blue Metallic and Mosaic Black, but also some splashes of color with Cajun Red, Ivy Metallic, and Kinetic Blue, if you’re tired of all the monochromes and earth-tones you see on the road these days.

Interior Colors in the 2019 Equinox

Interior color options are pretty basic, but they do the job. L and LS trims come in Medium Ash Gray, while the LT and Premier offer that, plus Jet Black. The LT lets you pair Jet Black with Cinnamon, and the Premier has a Jet Black and Brandy option for that tasteful luxury look.

2019 Chevrolet Equinox: Safety Recalls, Common Issues, and Maintenance

The 2019 Equinox has had four recalls in total, and they follow a basic pattern: insufficient coating on the rear brake caliper pistons, August 2018. Insufficient weld on head restraints, March 2019. Improperly sealed seam on the fuel tank, September 2019. Missing bolts on the start/stop accumulator, October 2020.

What they all have in common should be obvious:

Missing bolts
Bad welds
Poor seams

Generally, just lousy build quality.

These recalls run the whole range in scale, affecting over 200,000 units in the case of the August 2018 recall, and just 120 for the March 2019 recall.

NHTSA Complaints Range from Faulty Seatbelt Latches to Speed Control Glitches

In the complaints department, we have 105 reports ranging from seatbelts failing and faulty latches, to tires wearing out early. By far, the most common area of complaint is the engine, with 51 reports. Specifically, speed control is a concern.

In July of 2021, a driver pressed the gas and was only able to get the car moving at about five mph. Another driver reported in November 2020 that their car began accelerating for no reason. A May 2020 report saw the car suddenly losing speed on the road.

Considering that the car sold over a quarter-million units in 2019, this is a very small number of incidents. But it’s worth knowing, and it’s worth keeping an eye out for possible recalls relating to the power train.

On Car Complaints, you’ll find a sort of scattershot collection of issues. with four complaints of cooler tubes needing to be replaced at around 2,000 miles, two complaints of malfunctions in the car’s ECU, and one complaint of an Equinox being sold with no fuel cap.

Essentially, nothing to indicate a pattern. But remember, the vehicle is only a few years old, so there may be some issues that won’t be discovered until drivers start putting fifty, sixty thousand miles on the odometer.

Annual Maintenance Costs for a 2019 Chevy Equinox Sit at $605, Putting it in 23rd Out of 26 Models

Repair Pal shows repairs tend to be less frequent than with comparable SUVs, but they tend to be more severe. That evens out though, with the annual maintenance cost being below average around $605 a year.

Overall, the 2019 Equinox scored a 3.5-star rating with Repair Pal and has placed the SUV almost dead last for reliability on the site’s list of compact SUVs. Out of 26 models total, they ranked the Equinox in the 23rd spot.

Most repair shop visits should cost you around $544 to $665, with the most expensive common repair being an AC evaporator replacement at $1,108 to $1,403.

You won’t need to take out a loan to keep an Equinox running, but you’ll probably want to keep a little money tucked away for repairs.

Ranks #13 Compact SUV by Owners

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4.75

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4.51

The 2019 Chevrolet Equinox vs. the Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Hyundai Santa Fe

The compact SUV market is extremely competitive, with many tried-and-true models to choose from. Here’s how the 2019 Equinox does against the Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Hyundai Santa Fe.

2019 Honda CR-V Competes Equally vs. the Equinox but Only Offers a CVT, a Unique Experience that Many Dislike

2019 Honda CR-V - photo by Honda

The Equinox and the 2019 Honda CR-V deliver comparable performance, fuel efficiency, and engine options, plus FWD and 4WD models, and they both start at around $20k on the low end. Basically, the 2019 Honda CR-V does everything the Equinox does, plus it’s based on the Honda Civic platform, and the Honda Civic is about as reliable as cars get.

But, the CR-V is only offered with a one-speed CVT, a complete turn-off for some due to their unique driving characteristics and problematic nature.

Honda CVT is better now than it used to be, it’s been redesigned to feel like a conventional automatic. But… the Chevy Equinox has a real conventional automatic transmission. If you really can’t stand continuously variable transmission, then that’s probably going to be the tie-breaker.

To see a more detailed side-by-side comparison between these vehicles, check out this Vehicle History coverage.

2019 Ford Escape Bests the Equinox on Performance with EcoBoost Engines and Costs the Least on our List

2019 Ford Escape - photo by Ford

The 2019 Ford Escape is the cheapest reasonable four-wheel drive on the list, with AWD available in the SE trim, which will cost you somewhere in the low $20k range.

You can get an LS Equinox with 4WD for a little less than that, but the LS tops out at 170 horsepower. You need to upgrade to the $28k LT before you can add the 2.0L engine required to make the most of your AWD. The SE Escape, on the other hand, can be configured with a 245-horsepower EcoBoost engine for less than $25k, making it the clear winner for off-roaders, or anyone with a heavy foot.

To see a more detailed side-by-side comparison between these vehicles, check out this Vehicle History coverage.

2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Starts Roughly $9,000 More but Tops Out at About $35,000, which, Considering the Similar Offerings of the Equinox’s $44,000 Premier, Make the Sante Fe a Fantastic Alternative

2019 Hyundai Santa Fe - photo by Hyundai

The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe is pricier than the other SUVs on this list, starting at around $25k at the cheapest for an SLE. But you do get what you pay for, with the standard engine being a 185-horsepower 2.4L GDI E, and AWD being an option on every trim level.

Six seats, an optional upgrade to a 290-horsepower 3.3L GDI engine, and a ton of gadgets like remote cargo release make the Santa Fe the clear winner.

That said, the priciest Santa Fe, the Limited Ultimate, should run you around $35k, and it has a lot more going for it than the $44k Premier Equinox.

To see a more detailed side-by-side comparison between these vehicles, check out this Vehicle History coverage.

Our Final Word on the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox Overall is that There are Better Options Out There

There’s plenty to like in the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox… and plenty to dislike. The SUV’s optional AWD configuration pairs poorly with its base 1.5L engine, and the Premier trim level is too expensive for what it delivers. This underline’s the SUV’s main problem: Chevy hasn’t really decided what it’s supposed to be.

Is it a budget-friendly daily driver? An entry-level off-roader? A compact SUV with the feel of a hatchback? Even as a middle-of-the-road option, it’s outclassed by the Honda CR-V.

There are worse cars on the road, but with the compact SUV market being as crowded as it is, it’s hard to recommend an Equinox to anyone but the most die-hard Chevy fan.

Photos: Chevrolet; Honda; Ford; Hyundai

Frequently Asked Questions

By Josh Barrett | Nov 8, 2021

What are the Bad Years for Chevy Equinox?

While not necessarily bad, you should be wary of first-gen. 2005-2007 Equinox’s, which have had over 550 registered complaints each year. The second-gen. Equinox (2010-2017) is much more refined and has far fewer issues. However, those with the 2.4-liter I4 engine are notorious for excessive oil consumption, which makes the engine bad, but not the model.

What Year Equinox Have Engine Problems?

Chevy Equinox models from 2005-2006 had 120-139 registered engine-related complaints each. Engine problems spiked again in models built between 2010-2015, with mention of excessive oil consumption in the 2.4-liter engine, clicking or clattering noises, and shutting off or stalling. Later models haven’t been out long, so complaints naturally are less, but the 2019 model already has 61 complaints.

Does the 2019 Equinox have Transmission Problems?

No, the 2019 Equinox doesn’t have transmission problems, in fact there’s only been a single registered complaint about it slipping gears while accelerating. Sure, you’ll find a few random forum mentions about delayed shifting, grinding, or feeling vibrations, but they’re few and far between.

Owner Reviews

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Jacqueline A on November 10, 2021

I love the sporty look of my SUV!

The interior is big and comfortable. Amazingly equipped for car seats! The outside is nice and slim so no worries trying to squeeze into a parking spot with the sporty look. It has sensors all around to warn you if you are close to hitting something in your blind spots or reversing. It's definitely not a vehicle built to last long after about 20,000 miles your equinox will most likely start to have malfunctions. For example technical and electrical issues, emissions issues, engine issues, etc. You have the option to get OnStar which I highly recommend for safety and security especially if you have children in the car you never know what can happen! They also provide you with 24/7 diagnostic reports if they detect an issue with your car. You can connect and speak with an OnStar advisor at anytime, emergency or not emergency!

Alfredo E on November 11, 2021

The OnStar service is really easy and essential to my everyday driving.

The 2019 Chevrolet equinox is a hassle free, smooth riding, gas saving vehicle. The one issue I had with it I barely even noticed which was a recall for the air conditioning unit in my car. Rest assured, the recall appointment was fast and simple. It also has a good amount of room for a small SUV as I enjoy surfing on my summer mornings so there is enough room to fit my 10 foot surfboard. All. In all, if you are looking for a long lasting affordable car, please do yourself a favor and look into the Chevy equinox!

Nicole H on November 9, 2021

Good quality and good features apple carplay and cross traffic alerts.

It is ok, very reliable although it is still new. I feel like there is more road noise than I am used to. I always check to make sure my windows are up and they are but it is still loud. I love the apple car play I use it daily it works 85% of the time not sure why. I have some blind spot issues with the drivers side front. It is fuel efficient and I do like the cross traffic detectors they are very helpful in parking lots.

Kali W on November 10, 2021

There are better cars for the price.

At first I loved my equinox, but I was quick to learn that without the bonus features (I was talked into buying a low mile demo model for a discount) I quickly realized that I was missing quite a few main features: remote start, tinted windows, automatic seats. I have had to bring it in once and was given a fully loaded model for a rental and it would definitely be worth the extra money to have all the features.

Chris on November 9, 2021

Poor paint on new blue color for equinox

I’ve had this lease for a year, switched from a Ford Escape. The interior is bigger than the escape but one big problem about the car is the paint. It is like the car was painted with cheap products. I have no many chips and like cuts in the paint on the front. I never had this with all 3 Escapes I leased. I’m not impressed with this and being my first GM product ever, I don’t think I will be back.

Krista L on November 9, 2021

Nice factory speakers and nice radio.

Nice smooth ride. Handles like a car. Roomy interior. Does not take a lot of gas. Nice factory speakers and face on the radio is nice and big. Fits everyone comfortably. It has an auto stop feature which I really do not like however it helps with the gas mileage. Shape of car is unique and trunk is huge. You can lay the seats down to get more space. Automatic windows and mirrors.

Tim C on November 10, 2021

Affordability wise, gas mileage, overall handling/performance is fairly smooth.

The apple CarPlay is a useful feature and convenient. Would be better if it had an option to be wireless. Car seems heavier than our other vehicle very comparable in size. Not an issue for me but makes accelerating at times seem slower. With a car seat on each side of the back row it makes for the middle seat to be almost non-existent. Decent gas mileage. Reliable, safe.

Bella L on November 10, 2021

I have a 2019 Chevrolet equinox lt that is pearl white

There have been 2 recalls so far but for minor things. I love the paint, the computer with touch screen and the seats. I like how the vehicle has room for my growing kids but is small enough to make parking and driving very easy. It's got an awesome rear camera which adds to your view along with the mirrors. The seats are a fabric that is easy to wipe off.

Cara B on November 9, 2021

Apple Carplay and Bluetooth. Great in all weather conditions.

I enjoy my 2019 Equinox because it drives well in all weather conditions. I opted for the All Wheel Drive due to the fact that I live in Michigan. I do not like that with the base model I do not have a roof rack. I kayak and do a lot of outdoor activities and it is not very ideal for transporting my camping and outdoor equipment.

Pat Y on November 10, 2021

It is a good enough standard vehicle.

It is an ok car. Nothing special. It has a lot of standard equipment. I do not like the keyless entry or the keyless start. It is roomy enough. You can haul stuff around in the back which is nice. Not enough cup holders. Good color. I guess it gets good gas mileage. It is not a bad car at not a bad price. The radio is good.

Dylan D on November 11, 2021

Affordable equinoxes are great for commuters and those looking to save on gas.

It gets great gas mileage and is decently priced for a brand new vehicle. The issues I have had though, is after about 50,000 miles things slowly start falling apart. It also only has a 4 cylinder so it does not have much giddy up. This is my second new equinox and I will probably buy another one for its affordability.

Shari S on November 11, 2021

Mid sized, too compact with great carplay features.

4 cylinders does not have enough get up go in mountain area with curvy roads. The seats are too short for long legged people. Back is not roomy. Has excellent seat warmer with 3 area settings. Car play is good and map screen easy to view. Original tires worn very quickly cheap tires on from factory.

Jody R on November 11, 2021

Best car, does not feel like an SUV.

I love the features and how it drives, but it is too small for me. It is more a car than an SUV. It is too low to the ground for where I live, we have flooded island roads often. Great gas mileage. I love that it honks at me when I am filling the tires and they get to the desired pressure.

Emily M on November 11, 2021

Chevy equinox is a good car for the price you pay.

It is a nice car for the price. I personally am not the biggest fan of SUVs but they are the cheapest type of car to lease at the moment. I would prefer a car that can accelerate faster and drive smoother. Other than that it's nice. It has a roomy inside and all of the features work well.

Ali Q on November 9, 2021

Great economic vehicle and gas mileage.

No problems with the 2019 Chevrolet equinox. 1 recall but was an easy fix by just replacing the original part. Very reliable vehicle with great gas mileage! Heated seats, power seats, backup camera, automatic trunk open and close, power locks, keyless entry and start, remote start.

Megan S on November 9, 2021

2019 Chevy equinox: safe and affordable.

Reliable car that gets you where you need to go and you feel safe while driving as well. I had no difficulties in my long commutes to work and it does very well in the snow and rain. I would highly recommend to those who are thinking of getting the car. Lots of room as well.

Danyelle D on November 9, 2021

Chevy equinox good and bad.

Great on fuel, comfortable, good cargo and seating space. I have noticed since I have had it that I have had tech/ electrical issues several times but they fix it then it comes back or a new issue happens which is what makes me like it less. Also wish I added more features.

Jeff R on November 8, 2021

Overly happy but wish there was more.

The SUV runs very well however there is virtually no special features in the vehicle. Considering the cost, there really should be at least a sunroof or heated seats. I am unsure why vehicles that cost this much can't have so special features. This is my only frustration.

Beth H on November 8, 2021

Needs more horsepower. Although everything else is what I expect.

Not a lot of horsepower. I have to judge my entrance onto highways because I do not have the horse power I used to. Slow to pick up speed for merging into traffic otherwise I love everything else. The color, the set-up, the space are all as I expect from a new vehicle.

Deb S on November 10, 2021

Equinox highlights good or standard.

It does not have 3rd row seating that my journey did and I really miss that with the 6 grandkids. But it was the best price and is reliable for me. Would I buy another. Maybe. Drives good in Michigan winters and like the internet option for road trips with the kids.

Abbi A on November 8, 2021

Great car, very reliable, and no issues.

Reliable yes, comfortable it is comfortable, I do not have too many features because it is the basic. It will not be my forever car, but it is great for now. It is just not really what I wanted. We were in a hurry. It is very reliable and I haven't had any issues.

Emily B on November 8, 2021

Equinox is ok, but has some technical issues.

Sometimes the lights randomly flash on my dashboard. Seat is ok, but not very comfortable. It is a little small for really hauling anything. Occasionally the infotainment system goes down when I am driving and cannot use apple car play or listen to music.

Julie T on November 8, 2021

This car scratches more easily than any other car I’ve owned

Kept having problems with CarPlay I continue to have problems with blue tooth which I have not been able to fix despite trying everything that was suggested to fix it. I had a recall the first month I owned it.

Clarice staal on November 8, 2021

Not a smooth ride.

I have a 2018 equinox. It had 8000 miles on it when I bought it. Love everything about it but it rides terrible. Can feel every bump in the road. My old car had a smoother ride.

Gary W on June 25, 2021

My expectations exceeded!

This has been a great vehicle to own. It has been trouble free with no recalls. I have taken it on long trips and always felt comfortable and safe in it. Winter is my favorite. The heater is great and I love the theater seats. I am amazed at all the easy to use electronics that keep me informed. The power rear liftgate was a surprise to me.

B. Burskey on June 24, 2021

Shifting problem?

My 2019 Equinox LT is my third Equinox but this one won’t shift smoothly or without losing power then surging. My dealer doesn’t see this as a problem. It feels like I am highway driving in L and it can’t shift. I was wondering if anyone has an opinion as to the problem.

Carin B on June 21, 2021

Chevy equinox- great vehicle for the price.

Love my Chevy equinox for its efficient gas mileage, comfortable to drive, and has plenty of room. I hate the auto stop feature, it should be optional. This is my third equinox and will most likely get another one for my next car. First time I have had a back up camera and I love it.

Clarice staal on June 21, 2021

Not a smooth ride.

I have a 2018 equinox. It had 8000 miles on it when I bought it. Love everything about it but ride terrible. Can feel every bump in the road. My old car had a smoother ride.

Lisa H on June 21, 2021

Equinox perks of the vehicle.

It is very comfortable to ride in. Even my 6' 4' dad can sit comfortably in the back seat. It has heated seats for the winter, as well as starting it from inside to warm up. I can get about 350 miles per gas tank. Love the button inside so I can open the back hatch from driver seat.

Wanda E on June 18, 2021

Quality Chevrolet crossover.

Absolutely love my equinox, comfortable,good looking, quite,great gas mileage, smooth ride. Great price for this SUV love the backup camera the lights that let you know if a car is nearby. Very roomy. Great for traveling. Very reliable. Handles very well on the highway. All of the features are user friendly. Love having maps right in front of me.

Catherine C on June 16, 2021

19 Chevy equinox is the way to go!

It drives so smooth. I love all the space in the far back and how the backseat can fold down to create even more room. There’s tons of leg room. I love the speakers and navigation system as well. Plus, you cannot go wrong with 4 wheel drive options. The lighting is great. The seats are more comfortable than my last car which was a Mercedes. All in all I am very happy with this purchase.

Brian R on June 12, 2021

Mans Chevy equinox review.

Transmission does not handle the power the best. But clean lines, nice interior, plenty of space. The car gets very good gas mileage. We use it for my wife for getting around town and running the kids to their various activities. It is done shore trips and served well as far as space and cargo room goes. Drives very smoothly, even at speeds exceeding 70 mph.

Kira R on June 11, 2021

Great family SUV - up to 5 family members.

The Chevrolet equinox is very reliable. It is very comfortable and spacious for a family. I have never had any major issues with my equinox. The trunk space is huge and there is extra storage space on top of the spare tire. The ride is smooth and the android auto is life changing.

Louise P on June 4, 2021

Reliable, comfortable ride that is super dependable.

The Chevrolet equinox has excellent performance and reliability. It drives well on snow covered or icy roads. It also handles driving through snow which is very good when living in an area where it snows a lot. Riding in the equinox is very comfortable and the defrost system works well to keep the windows clear.

Andy G on June 4, 2021

It is good but could be better.

Aside from a perfect predicted reliability rating, the equinox does not excel in any one area, but its whole is greater than the sum of its parts. It has roomy seating for five, but some interior materials are lackluster, and cargo volume is merely average. You'll get great fuel economy from the base engine, but acceleration is subpar. The optional powertrain is more muscular but less efficient.

Bec S on June 3, 2021

Super practical and reliable!

This is my third equinox and I have absolutely loved each one. P.S. The only reason I have gone through so many is so I can stay current with updated trim levels. I have had my current model for almost two years now and it runs amazing. I have never had any issues and the side is perfect for me and very practical.

Taylor A on June 2, 2021

The speakers in the car are awesome! It gets around very well.

Sometimes while shifting gears the screen for the radio will go back and it will not come back to normal until the car has been shut off for a bit. The seats are okay to drive with but not on long road trips. Very uncomfortable to sleep in.. I also wish it had seat coolers.

Donivan D on June 2, 2021

A smooth ride with a clean style and great gas mileage.

The heated seats and steering wheel are a lifesaver during the winter! Really clean interior and the drivetrain is extremely smooth. Highly recommend this vehicle to anyone who needs something big enough to haul around the kiddos and pooches in your life!

David C on June 2, 2021

Great car for any occasion.

Does everything I want it to do and I get great gas mileage. I love that you can release the back seats from in the rear of the car when needed. I love the automatic hatch. I do not like but understand the engine stopping at stop signs and lights. The fabric is very nice and durable.

Sivan Z on June 1, 2021

I have a white, Chevy equinox. It's a 4 door car with a black interior.

My Chevy is incredibly comfortable. The steering wheel is loose and the seats mold perfectly to my body. It has great gas mileage. It is the primary car I use to get around. It's incredibly reliable and safe. The speakers are great too when playing music in the car.

Darla Z on June 1, 2021

Great family SUV that gets great gas mileage and very dependable.

I love my equinox. It get around very easily on the back roads in the winter with traction control. It easily fits car seats in the back of all sizes. The trunk provides ample room for groceries. Great family car for the price. I love my heated seats and keyless entry. The key fob makes it so easy to get in without having to search in my purse.

Ashley T on May 30, 2021

Enjoying the features of my new equinox.

Transitioning from a jeep to the equinox was no problem for me. A lot of the features in my equinox weren't on my last vehicle and I find them to be an added bonus. The blind spot detection feature is one of my favorites, it is extremely helpful not only on the road but also backing out of a parking space. The back up camera is another feature I love on this vehicle. The comfort for passengers, especially taller passengers is great for longer trips. There is plenty of legroom not only in the front seat but also the rear seats. Have yet to drive in a lot of snow, but so far the car has been extremely reliable.

Tamara T on May 29, 2021

Smooth driving and fun car!

Love the large screen for the radio and the availability of apple carplay. The driver's seat has lots of adjustable features to get comfortable. I also like the fabric. It is stylish but also easy to clean! Trunk space is large and features a cover. There’s also ac vents throughout the vehicle.

Anna N on May 28, 2021

Perfectly safe SUV - a SUV where I feel perfectly safe.

Perfect small SUV. I had a couple before and never felt safe during the Midwest winters which can include sun, rain, snow, and ice all in a 2 hour span. I love my equinox because I finally feel safe. Plus, even the base models include superb extras that you would have to be extra for in similar sized SUVs.

Sue C on May 22, 2021

Like the vehicle but have some regrets.

There is no CD player so I cannot use my music. We had some problems with some of the features at first such as the lane change warnings, but they are ok now. Wish we had the forward crash warning, but that was not included in the package in a price we were willing to pay..

Kay S on May 20, 2021

Perfect family car - with a little sass.

I have the 2019 redline equinox and am in love with it. I have had zero problems. I typically hate driving, especially with several passengers, and recently volunteered to drive on a 7 hour road trip because it is such a smooth car to drive. It is the little things sometimes and I love that I can set the driver side temperature separately (I am always cold!) And I love that I can move the navigation screen over to the drivers info screen and let the passengers control the music from the main screen. It is a beautiful, safe, practical car and I love it. I upgraded from a 2017 base model equinox and have no regrets!

Emily P on May 19, 2021

Chevy equinox: interesting features.

I love the ergonomic seats! I love that the back seat folds down, but I wish it also folded up and/or folded into the floor. Secret storage in trunk is great but not if you store things in your trunk that you have to take out in order to access the secret storage. Manufacturer tire traction is awful!

Mark G on May 18, 2021

Family and senior friendly.

Good Mileage.. Moderate ride and handling, decent space(passenger and cargo), engine a small turbo but transmission is better than larger blazer. Controls fairly easy to use, sound system is a bit of downgrade from previous models. Color selection varies in appeal from year to year.

Courtney O on May 18, 2021

2019 Chevy equinox reputable travel.

The 2019 Chevy equinox has provided safe travel for family and myself through Minnesota and other parts of the Midwest. The equinox has proved reliable in multiple snow storms, wash outs, and on plenty of gravel roads. The stability and traction of the vehicle make it safe in all these conditions. My friends always want to take my equinox when we go out because of the spacious backseat and leg room. The seat warmers are always my favorite, but I wish they stayed hotter longer without pressing the button. The phone connection via Bluetooth has saved me plenty of times while driving so I can take calls, send messages my talking, playing my music, and most important showing my navigation on the screen.

Vanessa B on May 6, 2021

Best car for long commutes. Great features such as SiriusXM.

I really love this car. It has to be the best car I have owned. It is really good on gas. I use it everyday to go back and forth to work. It has lots of legroom and the features on it are amazing. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone who has a long commute to work.

Molly M on May 6, 2021

Greatest family vehicle around.

This vehicle is the perfect size for my family of 4. It is really efficient on gas usage. I love the gas mileage it gets when traveling in town or out of town. It had all the options I need to keep me and my family comfortable. The heated seats or probably my favorite option on it.

Dan H on May 5, 2021

Why I like my equinox and recommend it!

The car performs very well, and has not presented any problems. It also handles very well and has excellent response time. It is well laid out for the driver and using all control features is very easy and safe. The seating is quite comfortable and fits 5 adults. The sound system is excellent - one of the best I have had in over 50 years of driving.

Bailey M on May 4, 2021

2019 Chevy equinox, perfect for everyday needs.

My vehicle is so comfortable. It has heated seats, remote start, back up camera, apple car play, lane assist, and so much more. The exterior is black with the matching black inside for the interior. It seats 5 with cargo space in the back. The back hatch goes up on its own with a simple push of a button. You can also program your garage doors right into this vehicle, so no more garage door openers on your visor.

Janvette B on April 30, 2021

The car brand, color and for safety.

Very good condition, since I bought that car I never have a problem. The steering wheel is very soft. Good size SUV to fit with my family. Smells so fresh. I choose color metallic gray and it is great color. Chevrolet is one of my favorite brand name vehicle.

Becky P on April 29, 2021

Roomy and zoom with great gas mileage.

My vehicle is excellent for travel, shopping, hauling, transporting and grocery shopping. It gets good gas mileage. It is a pretty silver color and very affordable. My husband uses it to go fishing and loads it up with lumber or car parts. Lots of legroom and many features.

sammie B on April 28, 2021

How to determine the great value of my 2019 equinox.

I have had no problems with my twenty nineteen equinox since I bought it in twenty nineteen.. The ride is not the best that I have ever rode in. It reminds you of a horse and buggy ride going over a cobblestone driveway. I do get very great gasoline mileage. I can get around 30 when driving on the freeway and 25 driving in town.

Julia K on April 27, 2021

I love the CarPlay feature because it allows me to be hands free at all times!

Equinox is very easy to maneuver and is very comfortable to drive. The gas mileage is good but is not quite up to the expected 30 mpg that was advertised. There are a ton of blind spot in this vehicle which makes left hand turns and checking rear view very difficult when on the expressway. Overall, very comfortable drive as I do not like low seated cars but the blind spots make it difficult.

Carrie D on April 23, 2021

Love the size and cameras and Bluetooth.

Love my car the Bluetooth and backup camera is my favorite. The only thing I do not like is the chairs our very narrow. A little uncomfortable. Also would loved to had more choices of color on outside and inside. Would have loved having remote start. I do love the option to have my OnStar on my phone. Locking my car, any issues it has and even locking and unlocking my car. OnStar is a great tool I love having. Wish the internet was included in on the price I pay, but I manage.

Amber J on April 20, 2021

Chevy equinox, great drive!

I love this SUV! There’s plenty of room for road trips, comfortable seats, it is beautiful, and great on gas! It is been an absolute dream to drive and love the led headlights! My only concern is that the transmission has been lagging on shifts between 1 and 2. Getting it looked at this week!

Brigid K on April 18, 2021

2019 Chevy equinox pros and cons.

Poor headlights, can't complain about anything else. Good gas mileage, comfortable seats, easy to clean, low maintenance, not expensive to fill up gas tank, looks great from inside and outside, inexpensive lease, lots of room in the trunk, roomy back seats.

Miranda C on April 16, 2021

Amazing SUV beautiful drive.

It's very smooth drive does very well on gas and good for families with kids. They are also very practical not to expensive and very easy to drive. There is lots of bells and whistles compared to the base model which is very nice. To top it off they are gorgeous inside and out.

Rob S on April 11, 2021

Chevrolet equinox litany of electrical problems.

michelle M on April 9, 2021

Nice little SUV for senior citizens that want an SUV.

The equinox is a nice little SUV. It is low therefore making it easy to climb in, especially for senior citizens. The GPS and apple carplay are very nice features, but it is a bit of a hassle that it is not Bluetooth, it must be plugged in to work. The car is comfortable and easy to clean with the leather seats. There is a charging station in the backseat but does not have separate air controls in the back. The truck/hatch space is average but not abundant.

Steve on April 8, 2021

Good car

Our 2019 equinox has been a good vehicle...the tire wear seems excessive, and we had to replace a door wiring harness( warranty)...all in all its a good vehicle that we have taken many road trips in..

Kellie T on April 6, 2021

The equinox gets great gas mileage.

The equinox is a great vehicle for small families. It gets wonderful gas mileage and has plenty of room. I love that the seats fold down for hauling large items. It allows 4 adults to travel comfortably with plenty of legroom as well as room for luggage and other supplies.

Deb S on April 4, 2021

Equinox highlights good or standard.

Rebecca A on April 3, 2021

Ability to sync with vehicle is awesome!

I love my equinox - it gets great gas mileage and I love being able to sync my iPad/iPod with the car via the USB slots. I do wish, however, that when you were synced it would also charge the device - it will not do both at the same time (at least that I have figured out). I wish there was more cup holder space - I feel like that area gets pretty cluttered - but that could just be because I tend to collect junk. It is great for short and long trips - highly recommend!

Julie J on April 2, 2021

2019 equinox good value, comfortable.

The equinox is a nice size crossover, not too small or too large. It has extras without costing a lot. My husband would like even more legroom but it works well for me. It is new so it will take a while for me to determine performance. It is comfortable and room for hauling things.

Nolan K on April 1, 2021

The equinox, Nolan kern’s 2020 car of the year.

I have had no problems with my 2019 equinox. This car runs great, and has had no problems since I got it at 5,000 miles. Chevy has superior handling and I would recommend this car to everyone. One of the most surprising aspects of the car is how well it does off road when I go on hunting and fishing trips. The handling is amazing and I can even tow my boat behind it. Again I would recommend this car for anyone as the fuel economy will save you money, and it is safety rating is elite.

Mikaya W on April 1, 2021

I have a all white truck that has all black interior.

The car is very comfortable. It would be better if the trunk was bigger and more leg room in the back seat. The wheel feels like I am fighting the car because it's so hard to handle. When I put my foot on the gas the car will jerk if I put it on to fast. When roads are slippery the wheels make a sound.

Gabriela Y on March 31, 2021

All about the Chevrolet equinox.

The only thing I hate about this car is when we are in the stop sign or stoplight the car turns off and then once I start to drive it turns on quick. Make me feel I am driving an old car about to give up on me. I know this has caused motor problems with the malibu’s.

Joey A on March 30, 2021

The Chevy equinox is a great vehicle and is worth every penny!

My Chevy equinox is very comfortable. I have debilitating back pain and this vehicle is easy to get in to. The heated seats work great. This vehicle has a great sound system. My phone connects through Bluetooth and works great! Most new vehicles do not come with a spare tire but the Chevy equinox does. This vehicle is reliable and gets great gas mileage. I highly recommend this vehicle!

Patricia R on March 28, 2021

My 2019 Chevrolet Equinox performs amazing.

The Equinox is by far the best vehicle I have ever driven. The performance of this vehicle in any type of weather is amazing. The vehicle was made with so many great features backup camera, comfortable seating, steering wheel controls for music, telephone etc. Roomy interior and spacious.

Kaila J on March 26, 2021

I love that it is a hybrid. It is not too big and not too small.

The equinox is very reliable and comfy. I haven't had any issues in the two years I have had this car. I have taken it on many long road trips and was comfortable the entire time. I always feel safe when I am driving this vehicle. It is the perfect size.

Gilbert Smith

Gilbert Smith is a New Mexico-based automotive journalist who enjoys writing about cars, trucks, and SUVs. He is a longtime contributor to Vehicle History and a member of the site's original content team when it launched.