2021 Chevy Equinox: Leading By Example?

There are SUVs, and then there’s the 2021 Chevy Equinox. You can find this newest Chevy SUV and more at Newton Chevrolet GMC, your Murfreesboro Chevy dealer. This latest take on a model lineup that has been around since the mid-2000s may not include the vast changes that would warrant a new generation of the beloved automobile, but it is nonetheless worth your attention. This is especially true for any driver who has never owned an Equinox or hasn’t in a few years, as it’s a model that’s historically not shy of changes. Last year’s model added a host of new features that would come included with each Equinox model, and this philosophy has carried over to the 2021 version. All of the new amenities that arrived last year regain the spotlight for the newest model, and the shopping process has been simplified as well.

Something that hasn’t changed is the assortment of trim levels that are available to you. Four trims make up the model’s lineup, with the L, the starting trim, available at an MSRP of $23,800. The L is a fantastic value as each Equinox comes with Chevy Safety Assist and a feature-packed interior. However, some of the features that are only available on higher-end trims might be far too tempting to pass up. Features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are only available on the LS trim and higher, and the lack of these two on the base model results in an infotainment center that feels far less modernized than the others. The LT then adds heated seats that you can adjust with power-adjustable controls, and the Premier then adds other features, including leather seating and larger wheels.

How Does it Drive?

Last year, there were two different powertrain configurations to select from, but this has been shortened to just one option now. To some drivers, this change has sparked nothing but curiosity as the only remaining engine for Equinox is the smaller option. This has certainly been an interesting discussion in recent months, but there is a positive side to this decision. With only one engine option, you don’t have to worry about paying extra to get a slightly better engine. The one option is still perfect for everyday driving, and having only one option allows Chevy to keep the vehicle cost lower. It’s a win-win.

The change from two powertrain options to one helps to strengthen the appeal of the cheaper models, and if you’re not into features such as leather seating, and hands-free power liftgates, then it’s easier than ever to recommend the base model. The engine option that you get in this SUV is a 1.5L 4-cylinder that produces the same 170 hp and 203 lb-ft of torque that we saw last year. This engine also comes paired with the same 6-speed automatic transmission as before.

Like last year, the 2021 Equinox is equally as fuel-efficient as it was last year. When you opt for a front-wheel drive model, you will get around 26 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. When you choose to have all-wheel drive instead, you will get around 25 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. This level of fuel economy makes the Chevy Equinox a perfect commuter vehicle.

Some critics, and even drivers, will be quick to point out that the 2021 Equinox only tows up to 1,500 lbs. For the average user, we don’t suspect this will be too massive of an issue since those seeking a vehicle with a higher towing capacity are likely looking for a larger SUV or even a pickup truck. The 1,500 lbs limit is still perfect for towing small loads when you need to.

The Difference Maker

If safety features are indicative of the SUV that you purchase, which is the case for many other drivers, then the Equinox will suit you. Like some other vehicles that are currently produced by Chevy, the 2021 Equinox comes standard with Chevy Safety Assist. With each model coming equipped with a plethora of advanced safety features, this again makes the base model an intriguing value and again simplifies the shopping experience.

Chevy Safety Assist comes packed with six features, with the first being Front Pedestrian Braking. To put it simply, there’s always the possibility of a pedestrian choosing to cross the street when they aren’t at a crosswalk, and this can come as a surprise to even the most focused drivers. Front Pedestrian Braking can activate your vehicle’s brakes near instantaneously if the driver isn’t able to react to the pedestrian fast enough. While features such as these can potentially be life-saving, drivers mustn’t rely on these features and still take the necessary precautions when operating their vehicle.

The 2021 Equinox combines Front Pedestrian Braking with Automatic Emergency Braking, another feature that can activate your brakes, with the main difference being protection against crashing into another vehicle. Like we said with Front Pedestrian Braking, this feature will work when it needs to, but it isn’t a ticket to stop using your brakes when it’s required. Luckily, Equinox can help prevent these collisions altogether, thanks in part to an integrated warning system that can alert you before the collision even occurs. This feature is called Forward Collision Alert, and simply gaining your attention when approaching another vehicle too quickly can prevent damage.

Another integrated feature that helps you stay at a safe distance behind the vehicle in front of you is a Following Distance Indicator. This indicator will give you an estimated time frame between how long it will take your vehicle to reach the other driver. For example, let’s say there’s a considerable amount of distance between you and another driver on the road; the indicator may say something along the lines of “7 seconds”. This is to help you decide if you are following the vehicle in front of you too closely.

When road conditions are a tad harsh, and visibility isn’t the greatest, the 2021 Equinox also includes IntelliBeam Auto High Beam Assist that takes care of all of your headlight controls without the need to adjust them yourself. Lastly, the 2021 Equinox features Lane Departure Warning, an alert signal that will warn you if you’re leaving a lane on a highway without your blinkers enabled. Lane Keep Assist will then help you get back on track by very slightly turning your steering wheel back.

Should You Wait or Buy?

The 2021 Chevy Equinox is one of the best models out of its history on the market. For those who are looking for a high-quality SUV at an affordable price with decent performance and terrific fuel efficiency, then you can’t do much better than the 2021 Equinox. Some drivers might tell you to wait for a newer and more exciting model, but we’re quite pleased with the results of the 2021 Equinox, and we feel that you will too. When you’re looking for a 2021 Equinox or any other Chevy vehicle, either new or used, come visit us at 2006 N Main Street in Shelbyville, IN. We are here to help you find the best vehicle for your needs.