Chevrolet Equinox: Top Alternatives for 2024
Rich Taber has nearly three decades of professional writing experience, including eight years as an automotive columnist for The Standard-Times newspaper, seven years on staff at WheelsTV as a scriptwriter, production manager, and editorial vice-president, and five years as CEO of RPM News Weekly. He has written extensively for numerous regional and local publications and developed public relations products for many non-profit organizations. Having studied both engineering and liberal arts at the University of Notre Dame and worked in audio/visual services, electronic sales, graphic design, and event and entertainment production, he brings a well-balanced skill set to his automotive writing.
In a marketplace now dominated by crossovers and SUVs of every size, small crossovers such as the popular Chevrolet Equinox draw a lot of attention for their combination of efficiency and economy.
There are good reasons to shop around, especially if you’re looking for a compact crossover that delivers a bit more satisfaction at the fuel pump and a tad more features at the entry-level.
Here is our list of similar vehicles to the Chevrolet Equinox.
Table of Contents
Why Should You Consider a Chevrolet Equinox Alternative
- Performance and Efficiency: Alternatives like the Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V offer more engaging driving dynamics or hybrid options for enhanced fuel efficiency, appealing to those who prioritize performance or environmental considerations.
- Interior Quality and Features: Models such as the Hyundai Tucson and Honda CR-V are known for their upscale interiors and comprehensive tech offerings, attracting buyers seeking a more premium cabin experience and advanced technology.
- Safety and Reliability: While the Equinox is equipped with essential safety features, competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V have a reputation for higher safety ratings and reliability over time, which can be a decisive factor for safety-conscious buyers.
While the Chevrolet Equinox offers a balanced mix of features, alternatives may provide enhanced performance, superior interior quality, better fuel economy, or specific attributes that better align with individual buyer priorities.
Chevrolet Equinox vs. Competitors - Comparison Summary
Mazda CX-5 vs. Chevrolet Equinox: The CX-5 offers sportier handling and a more upscale interior, appealing to those who prioritize driving dynamics and cabin aesthetics.
Honda CR-V vs. Chevrolet Equinox: The CR-V provides superior interior space and offers a hybrid option, making it a better choice for efficiency-minded buyers and those needing more room.
Hyundai Tucson vs. Chevrolet Equinox: The Tucson stands out with its modern design and advanced standard safety features, catering to buyers seeking cutting-edge technology and style.
Toyota RAV4 vs. Chevrolet Equinox: The RAV4 offers a robust suite of standard safety features and reliability, appealing to buyers who prioritize safety and long-term value.
1. Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 is renowned for its engaging driving dynamics and upscale interior, setting it apart in the compact SUV segment.
It combines sporty handling with a premium cabin experience, often compared to luxury brands, making it a favorite among drivers who appreciate both performance and sophistication.
- Performance: The Equinox features a 175-hp 1.5L turbocharged engine, focusing on balanced performance. The CX-5 offers a sportier ride with a 187-hp 2.5L engine, and a turbocharged option for those seeking more power.
- Interior Comfort: The Equinox provides a comfortable and user-friendly interior, while the CX-5 boasts a more upscale and premium cabin feel.
- Technology and Safety: Both SUVs offer advanced safety features, but the CX-5 edges ahead with standard all-wheel drive and a slightly more refined infotainment system.
Takeaway: The Mazda CX-5 presents a worthy alternative, especially if you value sporty performance and a premium interior.
Current Mazda CX-5 Deals & Incentives
| Year | Make | Model | Cash Incentives (up to) | Best Avail. APR | Lease Offers | Expiration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Mazda | CX-5 | ||||
| 2024 | Mazda | CX-5 | 1.90% | $359/month for 36 months, $2,999 due at signing | 4/30/24 |
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Mazda deals
2. Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is known for its reliability, versatility, and strong resale value, making it a popular choice in the compact SUV segment. It offers a well-built, roomy interior, advanced technology features, and a reputation for durability.
With a range of trims catering to various preferences, from the budget-conscious to the adventure-seeking, the RAV4 maintains its appeal by providing a balanced mix of performance, comfort, and utility.
- Performance: RAV4 offers a more powerful standard engine (203 hp) compared to Equinox's 175 hp, potentially offering a more responsive driving experience.
- Fuel Efficiency: Both models aim for efficiency, but the RAV4 often edges out with slightly better fuel economy, thanks in part to its engine design and available hybrid models.
- Interior Space: The RAV4 generally provides a bit more cargo space, making it a better option for those prioritizing storage and utility.
Takeaway: Buyers looking for performance and utility might lean towards the RAV4, while those valuing comfort and a more attractive price point might prefer the Equinox.
Current Toyota RAV4 Deals & Incentives
| Year | Make | Model | Cash Incentives (up to) | Best Avail. APR | Lease Offers | Expiration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Toyota | RAV4 | ||||
| 2024 | Toyota | RAV4 | $349/month for 36 months, $4,999 due at signing | 4/30/24 |
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Toyota deals
3. Hyundai Tucson
The 2024 Hyundai Tucson is known for its striking design, spacious and well-equipped interior, and a wide range of trim options catering to various preferences and budgets.
It stands out in the compact SUV segment for its blend of technology, safety features, and value, offering both internal combustion and hybrid powertrains to meet diverse driving needs.
- Performance: Both offer similar base engines, but the Tucson provides a hybrid option for those seeking better fuel efficiency.
- Interior and Tech: Tucson is praised for its modern interior and advanced tech features. Equinox offers a comfortable interior but with slightly less emphasis on cutting-edge technology.
- Safety Features: Both SUVs come well-equipped with safety features, though Tucson often edges out with more standard advanced safety tech across all trims.
- Value: Tucson is known for its value proposition, offering a generous warranty and a wide range of features at competitive prices. The Equinox is also competitively priced, focusing on providing essential features for comfort and safety.
Key Takeaway: Buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and technology might lean towards the Hyundai Tucson, especially with its hybrid options.
Current Hyundai Tucson Deals & Incentives
| Year | Make | Model | Cash Incentives (up to) | Best Avail. APR | Lease Offers | Expiration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Hyundai | Tucson | ||||
| 2024 | Hyundai | Tucson | $1,250 | 3.79% | $259/month for 36 months, $3,999 due at signing | 4/30/24 |
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Hyundai deals
4. Honda CR-V
The 2024 Honda CR-V is known for its spacious and versatile interior, advanced safety features, and a choice between efficient gasoline and hybrid powertrains.
Building on its reputation for reliability and strong resale value, the CR-V continues to offer a compelling mix of comfort, technology, and performance, making it a top contender in the compact SUV segment.
- Powertrains and Fuel Efficiency: The CR-V offers both gasoline and hybrid options, with the hybrid models providing excellent fuel efficiency and a bit more power. The Equinox sticks to a traditional gasoline engine, focusing on balanced performance.
- Technology and Safety: Both models come equipped with advanced safety features and modern infotainment systems. However, the CR-V might edge out slightly with its standard Honda Sensing suite of safety technologies across all trims.
- Driving Experience: The CR-V is praised for its smooth ride and handling, partly due to its available hybrid powertrain. The Equinox provides a comfortable driving experience but is more traditional in its performance approach.
Key Takeaway: Buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and interior space might lean towards the Honda CR-V, especially with its hybrid option.
Current Honda CR-V Deals & Incentives
| Year | Make | Model | Cash Incentives (up to) | Best Avail. APR | Lease Offers | Expiration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Honda | CR-V | ||||
| 2024 | Honda | CR-V | 2.90% | $299/month for 36 months, $3,399 due at signing | 4/30/24 |
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Honda deals
