The 2018 Equinox is completely new, and it replaced the previous model which was on sale for almost a decade. The new version is similar to the old one when it comes to size, but it lost some of the weight and there are more modern features. The previous variant was a solid seller, and it could have been refreshed only, but Chevy decided that the time has come for the new car. The 2018 Chevrolet Equinox will take on Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Toyota RAV4 and Ford Escape and now let’s see what makes this model so special.
2018 Chevrolet Equinox Price
The new 2018 Chevrolet Equinox comes in four different trims – the base one is called L, and it is followed by LS and LT, while at the top of the range sits Premier. The starting price of the base version which is equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged I4 engine is $24,475. Some of the most important features in the entry-level model are MyLink infotainment system with a 7.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, review camera, 17-inch wheels, etc.
This crossover that was tested on the North and South Carolina roads was the range-topper Equinox Premier which uses the same engine as the base model, but it comes with an 8.0-inch touchscreen, 18-inch wheels and power foot-activated tailgate. However, this vehicle didn’t have AWD configuration, navigation and a panoramic glass roof. The American carmaker plans to introduce a 2.0-liter gasoline I4 and 1.6-liter diesel units and with them and optional features, the price of the Equinox would exceed $40,000.
Exterior and Technology
The 2018 variant is way prettier than the previous model since it took some of the parts from Malibu and Cruze corporate brothers. At the front end, you can see the grinning grille and the headlights that are elongated, whereas the black lower trim is visible on the sides. The rear end is fairly simple and not so beautiful as on some other crossovers, but tastes differ.
The latest Equinox is improved in terms of technology, and besides MyLink infotainment we have already mentioned, a 4G LTE connection for GM’s OnStar telematics system and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot are also included. The screen is well-positioned and easy to access whereas there is an abundance of analog controls you can use, whereas the car that was tested comes with 12-volt power outlets in the cargo area, underneath the center stack and at the back of the center console to plug in your devices.
2018 Chevy Equinox Interior Design
The interior of the new Equinox is much better than the one of the previous model, but there is still room for improvement. To be honest, the design is too simple, and the only thing that spices things up are two wing-like trim panels on the dash. They are covered with stitched leather material, and they come in several contrasting colors. The seats are comfortable, for longer rides as well, and they have a decent amount of side bolstering.
In addition, they offer enough support on heavy terrain, and the seating position is a mixture between car-like and traditional high SUV one. The seats in the rear are also comfortable but slightly tougher, while generally speaking, there is enough room for your legs thanks to strategic packaging decisions. Even though the new model is slightly smaller than the old one, the interior space has not been compromised, but the overall appearance of the car has improved.
Driving Experience and Mileage
Chevy had the idea to create a more fuel-efficient Equinox that is also engaging to drive, and they managed to succeed partially. More high-strength steel is used for the new crossover which makes it 400-pound lighter compared to its predecessor, and this can be felt well from a driver’s position. On the imperfect road, the Equinox behaves rather well providing a smooth ride, and it does feel refined. The cabin is quiet due to an active noise cancellation system, so you won’t have trouble with wind and road noise.
Although the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox is pleasant and comfortable it is not engaging. Under its hood is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four unit that produces 170 hp and 203 lb-ft of torque, which is a standard output for the segment. However, if you decide to put the pedal to the metal, the engine responds with an uncomfortable noise, and it is clearly struggling. According to EPA, the Equinox is rated at 28 mpg combined, 26 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. Soon 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder and a 1.6-liter diesel will be available.
Safety and Conclusion
The 2018 Chevy Equinox has six airbags and among standard safety equipment is Teen Driver system that allows the parents to monitor their kids and set restrictions on the audio system volume and speed limits. Some of the optional features are forward collision alert with following distance indicator, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, rear cross traffic alert, and lane change alert. In addition, forward automatic braking is included, but as it appears the system is way too sensitive.
The good thing is that the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox has indeed improved significantly and the engineers managed to solve most of the biggest problems. There is still a lot to do, but the Equinox is going in the right direction.
