Chevrolet Equinox (2027)
Comfortable, connected, and affordable, but modestly powered and best for practical daily driving.
The 2027 Chevrolet Equinox is a sensible family-and-commuter SUV, built to solve the everyday challenge of carrying people and gear affordably without premium-SUV fuss. Its comfortable ride, roomy cabin, Google-based infotainment, and physical climate controls support the brand’s practical-value pitch, while reviewers generally confirm those strengths. The new eight-speed automatic feels more natural than the outgoing CVT, but the 175-hp turbo engine is leisurely when passing, and real-world fuel economy may trail expectations. Cargo space is useful but smaller than leading rivals, while ACTIV all-terrain tires add noise and weakened braking performance. At roughly $29,000 to $36,000, it is appealing if comfort and equipment matter more than speed, efficiency, or class-leading utility. Overall Buyary appeal rests on that value balancing its clear compromises.
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Benefits
Supportive seats, roomy rear accommodations, and a calm ride make everyday family trips easier.
Google-based displays, wireless phone connection, and physical climate controls keep common tasks simple.
Available AWD, good visibility, and flexible cargo space make errands and changing weather manageable.
Distinct RS and ACTIV styling gives practical family transport a more personal, confident feel.
Reasonable pricing and generous standard equipment make family-focused capability easier to access.
Trade-Offs
Low-speed throttle feels slow, so stoplight starts and quick merges take more planning.
On longer highway trips, the ride can feel unsettled and less relaxing than expected.
Bulky groceries, strollers, or luggage use up the cargo area faster during family trips.
Real-world mileage may disappoint, meaning frequent drivers make fuel stops sooner than expected.
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Publications
2 LEADING PUBLICATION REVIEWS
Edmunds views the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox as competent and appealing, but ultimately too unremarkable to strongly recommend. Its sharp styling, cohesive interior, crisp Google-integrated displays, roomy seating, comfortable ride around town, and practical, easy-to-load cargo area make a good first impression. Standard driver aids, wireless smartphone integration, physical climate controls, and competitive pricing add everyday appeal. However, the 175-horsepower engine feels strained, acceleration is merely adequate, and throttle response is sluggish at low speeds. Handling lacks precision, highway ride control is unsettled, and the Activ’s all-terrain tires produced an unusually long 133-foot panic-braking distance. Rear-door access and child-seat tether placement are awkward, cargo capacity trails key rivals, towing limits are modest, and real-world fuel economy missed EPA expectations. Overall, it is comfortable, stylish, and sensible, but lacks the performance or distinctive strengths to stand out.
By Michael Cantu
Car and Driver is positive about the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox, but stops well short of calling it a segment leader. Its attractive price, generous standard equipment, comfortable ride, roomy front seats, and useful Google-based infotainment make it a sensible, easygoing choice. The RS and Activ trims especially seem worth considering for their added conveniences and distinct styling. Still, the turbocharged 1.5-liter engine feels tepid, fuel economy trails key rivals, cargo space is notably smaller than the Honda CR-V’s, and the Equinox offers little excitement on winding roads or capability off pavement. The new eight-speed automatic for both drivetrain configurations is a welcome change, while towing capacity is merely adequate. Overall, the Equinox handles the fundamentals well and offers genuine value, but its measured, unremarkable character keeps it from matching the best compact SUVs.
By Andrew Wendler
YouTube
7 LEADING EXPERT & INFLUENCER REVIEWS
Ben HardyBen Hardy is quite positive about the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox, calling it a strong value with attractive styling, useful space, good technology, a comfortable ride, and punchy low-end torque. He appreciates the sub-$40,000 all-wheel-drive price and practical boxy design, while acknowledging weak passing power, torque steer in front-wheel-drive mode, a brief throttle dead zone, and an engine that demands disciplined 3,000–5,000-mile oil changes. He also cautions about reported vacuum-pump and turbo failures, drawing on a prior high-mileage Equinox experience. Overall, his recommendation is favorable but maintenance-dependent.
Chabby's RidesChabby’s Rides is positive about the Equinox Activ’s comfort and smooth ride, but ultimately disappointed by its price and power. The Activ feels airy and well-equipped, with useful AWD, all-terrain tires, 8.2 inches of ground clearance, excellent cargo flexibility, and a genuinely impressive interior feature set. However, those tires add road noise, steering is numb, and the 1.5-liter turbo feels underpowered—especially compared with the LT’s stronger torque output. At $42,000, Chabby’s Rides argues Chevrolet should offer the 2.0-liter turbo, making the Activ a capable-looking but expensive compromise.
Ben HardyBen Hardy is quite positive about the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox, calling it a strong value with attractive styling, useful space, good technology, a comfortable ride, and punchy low-end torque. He appreciates the sub-$40,000 all-wheel-drive price and practical boxy design, while acknowledging weak passing power, torque steer in front-wheel-drive mode, a brief throttle dead zone, and an engine that demands disciplined 3,000–5,000-mile oil changes. He also cautions about reported vacuum-pump and turbo failures, drawing on a prior high-mileage Equinox experience. Overall, his recommendation is favorable but maintenance-dependent.
Chabby's RidesChabby’s Rides is positive about the Equinox Activ’s comfort and smooth ride, but ultimately disappointed by its price and power. The Activ feels airy and well-equipped, with useful AWD, all-terrain tires, 8.2 inches of ground clearance, excellent cargo flexibility, and a genuinely impressive interior feature set. However, those tires add road noise, steering is numb, and the 1.5-liter turbo feels underpowered—especially compared with the LT’s stronger torque output. At $42,000, Chabby’s Rides argues Chevrolet should offer the 2.0-liter turbo, making the Activ a capable-looking but expensive compromise.
Ben HardyBen Hardy is quite positive about the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox, calling it a strong value with attractive styling, useful space, good technology, a comfortable ride, and punchy low-end torque. He appreciates the sub-$40,000 all-wheel-drive price and practical boxy design, while acknowledging weak passing power, torque steer in front-wheel-drive mode, a brief throttle dead zone, and an engine that demands disciplined 3,000–5,000-mile oil changes. He also cautions about reported vacuum-pump and turbo failures, drawing on a prior high-mileage Equinox experience. Overall, his recommendation is favorable but maintenance-dependent.
Chabby's RidesChabby’s Rides is positive about the Equinox Activ’s comfort and smooth ride, but ultimately disappointed by its price and power. The Activ feels airy and well-equipped, with useful AWD, all-terrain tires, 8.2 inches of ground clearance, excellent cargo flexibility, and a genuinely impressive interior feature set. However, those tires add road noise, steering is numb, and the 1.5-liter turbo feels underpowered—especially compared with the LT’s stronger torque output. At $42,000, Chabby’s Rides argues Chevrolet should offer the 2.0-liter turbo, making the Activ a capable-looking but expensive compromise.
Ben HardyBen Hardy is quite positive about the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox, calling it a strong value with attractive styling, useful space, good technology, a comfortable ride, and punchy low-end torque. He appreciates the sub-$40,000 all-wheel-drive price and practical boxy design, while acknowledging weak passing power, torque steer in front-wheel-drive mode, a brief throttle dead zone, and an engine that demands disciplined 3,000–5,000-mile oil changes. He also cautions about reported vacuum-pump and turbo failures, drawing on a prior high-mileage Equinox experience. Overall, his recommendation is favorable but maintenance-dependent.
Chabby's RidesChabby’s Rides is positive about the Equinox Activ’s comfort and smooth ride, but ultimately disappointed by its price and power. The Activ feels airy and well-equipped, with useful AWD, all-terrain tires, 8.2 inches of ground clearance, excellent cargo flexibility, and a genuinely impressive interior feature set. However, those tires add road noise, steering is numb, and the 1.5-liter turbo feels underpowered—especially compared with the LT’s stronger torque output. At $42,000, Chabby’s Rides argues Chevrolet should offer the 2.0-liter turbo, making the Activ a capable-looking but expensive compromise.
Social
1 INFLUENCER REVIEW
Car News NetworkCar News Network is upbeat about the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox’s switch from a CVT to an 8-speed automatic. The change should make acceleration and highway merging feel more natural, though it costs roughly 1 mpg in combined fuel economy. The post also covers minor styling updates, including Autumn Harvest Metallic replacing Cacti Green and Torch Red stitching replacing Santorini Blue in the RS. Its humor is enthusiastic but measured, acknowledging the lack of a hybrid option and inviting comparison with the Honda CR-V rather than offering an unqualified endorsement.
Forum Reviews
CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 1 FORUM
Redditors are cautiously positive about the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox EV, though charging performance and uncertainty remain concerns. Its strongest appeal is mainstream practicality: good range, reasonable pricing, familiar Chevrolet dealer support, and a comfortable middle ground between small and oversized EVs. Some users view it as a compelling value, especially for commuting, while others question its differentiation and whether it truly advances beyond existing rivals. Criticism centers on relatively low pack voltage and potentially modest DC fast-charging speeds, plus lingering uncertainty over NACS availability. Overall, it seems well suited to everyday drivers, less so to frequent road-trippers or enthusiasts.
Some comments
In-Depth Review
Highlights
- •Comfortable Daily RideReviewers consistently note calm, supportive manners.
- •Connected Cabin ControlsGoogle displays pair with physical climate controls.
- •Strong Everyday ValueReviewers find pricing compelling for equipment.
- •Flexible Weather TractionDesigned to add traction in poor weather.
Considerations
- •Leisurely Engine Response175-hp turbo feels strained when passing.
- •Unsettled Highway RideHighway control can feel unsettled.
- •Limited Cargo CapacityVolume trails leading compact SUVs.
- •Real-World Mileage GapsTesting fell below EPA expectations.
Chevrolet’s Equinox remains a familiar value-focused choice for families and commuters who want SUV practicality without premium pricing. The 2027 model centers on a 175-hp turbocharged engine and a new eight-speed automatic, aiming for smoother everyday driving than the outgoing CVT while keeping available AWD for changing weather. Its appeal also rests on a comfortable ride, roomy five-seat cabin, Google-connected technology, and flexible loading—though rivals such as the CR-V and RAV4 offer stronger efficiency or cargo advantages. Before choosing one, it is worth weighing acceleration, highway composure, fuel use, rear-seat access, and the Activ’s trim-specific braking results, including its 133-foot panic stop. In short, this is a practical commuter with sensible priorities, so let’s see where those priorities shine—and where they need a little patience.
Passenger Space And Access
The Equinox gives five occupants a comfortable, practical cabin, especially for everyday family use. Reviewers praise its roomy rear-seat accommodations, supportive front seats, and airy interior, while wireless smartphone integration and physical climate controls reduce routine friction. Rear-seat space is a genuine strength for the class, but rear-door access can be awkward, and child-seat tether placement may complicate installation. The cabin’s generous room is paired with abundant hard plastic on lower trims, so usability is stronger than material richness.
Engine And Acceleration
The Equinox is adequate around town but not especially quick when conditions demand more. Its 175-hp 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder delivers useful low-end torque, and the 2027 eight-speed automatic feels more natural than the outgoing CVT, especially during ordinary merging. Still, Edmunds and Car and Driver describe low-speed response as sluggish, while reviewers report weak passing power and leisurely acceleration, including roughly 8.6–10.2 seconds to 60 mph depending on trim, drivetrain, and altitude. It works for commuting, but performance-focused shoppers should look elsewhere.
Braking Performance
Braking appears adequate in most versions, but the Activ deserves particular caution. The standard system supports normal commuting and family errands, yet Edmunds recorded a 133-foot panic stop for the Activ equipped with all-terrain tires. That is a notable weakness, especially when compared with expectations for a modern family SUV, and those tires also increase road noise. The result does not necessarily represent every Equinox configuration, but it shows how trim-specific hardware can affect safety feel and reinforces that Activ styling and traction hardware involve compromises.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is respectable on paper, but real-world results weaken the value argument for frequent drivers. Depending on configuration, the turbo Equinox is rated around 25 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, or approximately 8.7 L/100 km combined in the supplied figures. The switch to the eight-speed automatic improves drivability, although one comparison notes roughly 1 mpg less combined efficiency than the prior CVT setup. Edmunds reports mileage below EPA expectations, and the lack of a hybrid option leaves the CR-V, RAV4, and other electrified rivals better positioned.
Cargo And Loading
The Equinox handles ordinary family hauling well, but its cargo area is not a class leader. Chevrolet emphasizes flexible two-row utility, and the fold-flat rear seats provide up to 1,798 liters with seats folded, while the low, boxy layout makes loading approachable. Reviewers appreciate the generous opening and usable shape, yet Edmunds and Car and Driver note that cargo capacity trails key rivals, particularly the Honda CR-V. The absence of convenient seat-release handles and the lack of a power liftgate on some trims also add small daily inconveniences.
Ride And Handling
Comfort is one of the Equinox’s strongest everyday qualities, though composure varies by situation. The comfortable, easygoing ride earns consistent praise from video reviewers and experts, with supportive seats and good visibility making routine trips pleasant. Steering is light and manageable, but handling feels imprecise, highway control can seem unsettled, and the Activ’s all-terrain tires add road noise. The AWD system improves traction rather than transforming capability, so the Equinox suits weather-prone commuting better than enthusiastic driving or serious off-road use.
Conclusion
The Equinox’s case is easy to understand: it prioritizes comfortable ride quality, useful passenger space, and straightforward controls over excitement. The 175-hp turbo and eight-speed automatic handle commuting adequately, though passing requires patience. Its boxy cargo area loads easily, yet capacity trails leading rivals, and rear-door and child-seat access are less convenient than expected. Fuel economy is respectable on paper but can disappoint in real driving, with no hybrid option to offset that weakness. Available AWD helps in poor weather, but the ACTIV’s all-terrain tires add noise and produced a concerning 133-foot panic stop. That makes the Equinox a sensible fit for budget-minded families and commuters who value comfort, technology, and price more than performance or maximum utility. With its practical strengths balanced by clear compromises, it earns a favorable but measured recommendation rather than an automatic class-leader verdict.
Feature Scores
This reflects reviews and ratings from established critics, journalists, and users who have evaluated the item. Their opinions provide a comprehensive assessment.
Performance
Engine Power
3/5
Acceleration
2/5
Towing Capacity
2/5
Fuel Efficiency
3/5
Reliability
2/5
Durability
2/5
Value
Purchase Price
4/5
Operating Cost
3/5
Resale Value
3/5
Design
Interior Space
4/5
Cargo Capacity
3/5
Ergonomics
3/5
Exterior Styling
4/5
Health
Cabin Air Quality
TBD
Interior Material Toxicity
TBD
Safety
Crashworthiness
3/5
Active Driver Assistance
4/5
Braking Performance
2/5
Visibility and Lighting
3/5
Sustainability
Tailpipe Emissions
2/5
Fuel Lifecycle Emissions
2/5
Use of Recycled Materials
TBD
End-of-Life Recyclability
TBD
Experience Style
Infotainment Features
4/5
Ride Comfort Tuning
4/5
Customization Options
4/5
Specifications
This section outlines the product's key facts, covering essential features, details, dimensions, materials, and any unique characteristics that define its functionality and usability.
Performance
Design
Safety
Sustainability
Experience Style
Frequently Asked Questions
9 Questions
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