Times are changing. Once upon a time, large sedans ruled the streets and highways of the USA. Today, sport utility vehicles are all the rage. And the compact SUV class is one of the hottest. These vehicles have lower gas mileage and same number of seats as a small sedan, but with a little more power, more in-cabin storage, a higher vantage point, and plenty of personality. And one of the best SUVs out there is the 2020 Chevy Equinox. In this preview guide, we’ll discuss what makes the Equinox a great vehicle and what’s new for this model year.
What’s New for 2020?
A most welcome addition for 2020 is the newly standard driver assistance features in the Chevy Equinox. We’re talking automatic emergency braking, forward-collision alert, lane-departure warning, and assist plus automatic high beams. No matter which 2020 Equinox you drive, all these features are part of the deal. In other news, the LT trim level can now be be equipped with the new Midnight Edition package and the Premier trim gets the new Redline Edition if you check that box. As you might imagine, the Midnight Edition adds black accents like 19-inch black wheels and perforated black leather-appointed seats. The Redline Edition gives the Equinox a suave city look with black accents and splashes of red, including 19-inch wheels with red accents.
Unfortunately for diesel fans, the diesel engine that debuted recently has already been discontinued due to lack of interest. Maybe one day the world will be ready for a diesel-fueled compact sport utility vehicle, but it doesn’t look like today’s the day.
That Potent Engine
Plenty of compact SUVs feel like tall sedans. You reach for the power but find little available. That’s not the case with the 2020 Chevy Equinox. Hit the gas and feel the engine come alive. We recommend the turbocharged 2-liter engine over the base 1.5-liter to make the most of this model. With the turbocharged engine, the Equinox goes zero to 60 in just 6.8 seconds, faster than almost any other vehicle in its class. Besides that, there’s superb handling abilities on a winding country roads and minimal body roll for those quick turns.
Fuel Economy
One of the main reasons to buy a compact, besides fitting into those tight parking spots and maneuvering around the city, is to benefit from great gas mileage. And there the 2020 Chevy Equinox does not disappoint. The Equinox is estimated to get 26 city miles and 31 highway miles per gallon. That puts the Equinox decidedly in the top half of its class for fuel economy. Keep in mind though, that the 2-liter turbocharged engine requires premium gasoline.
In a crowded class, the 2020 Chevy Equinox rises to the top. If you want a great engine coupled with stellar fuel economy, this one is a strong contender.