The 2022 Chevrolet Equinox is a compact SUV that offers a balanced blend of style, performance, and practicality, making it a solid choice in its segment. Positioned between the smaller Trax and the larger Blazer, the Equinox is Chevrolet’s answer to the ever-growing demand for versatile and family-friendly SUVs. With a refreshed design, a comfortable interior, and a suite of advanced safety features, the 2022 Equinox is designed to appeal to a broad range of drivers, from daily commuters to small families.
For 2022, the Equinox receives a significant facelift that modernizes its appearance and keeps it competitive in the crowded compact SUV market. It’s available in four trims: LS, LT, RS, and Premier, each offering a distinct set of features that cater to different needs and preferences. The Equinox continues to be powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine, which strikes a balance between efficiency and sufficient power for most driving scenarios. Whether you're looking for a daily driver or a vehicle for weekend adventures, the 2022 Equinox is worth considering.
In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including the EPA, the NHTSA, the IIHS, and J.D. Power. Each model score is determined by Top Speed's rating team, which factors in five different metrics. You can read our Methodology page for more information about our rating system.
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What's New for 2022
For 2022, the Chevrolet Equinox receives a mid-cycle refresh that includes updated exterior styling, a new RS trim with sporty design elements, and additional standard safety features. The front fascia has been revised with a bolder grille, redesigned headlights, and a more aggressive bumper. Inside, the new RS trim introduces a more upscale interior with unique accents and upgraded technology features. It has sporty styling cues such as dark 19-inch wheels, blacked out exterior trim, red stitching, a unique shift knob, and more goodies. Additionally, the Equinox now comes standard with Chevy Safety Assist, which includes several advanced driver-assistance systems.
2022 Highlights:
- Refreshed front fascia with a new grille design.
- Updated LED headlamps and taillights.
- Introduction of the RS trim with sportier design cues.
- New available interior color options.
- Enhanced driver-assistance features.
- Redesigned wheels across the trim levels.
Exterior Dimensions
Length | 183.1 Inches |
Width | 72.6 Inches |
Height | 65.4 Inches |
Wheelbase | 107.3 Inches |
Front Track | 62.2 Inches |
Rear Track | 62.2 Inches |
Ground Clearance | 7.9-8.0 Inches |
|---|---|
Curb Weight | 3,274-3,512 Pounds |
Engine Specifications and Performance
With the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine no longer offered, the 2022 Chevrolet Equinox is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, which produces 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive shifts. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is available as an option across all trims for those who need extra traction in various driving conditions.
While the 1.5-liter engine is sufficient for daily driving and offers decent acceleration, it may feel underpowered during more demanding driving situations, such as merging onto highways or towing. The Equinox is not designed for heavy towing, but it can handle up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped, making it suitable for small trailers or light recreational equipment.
Performance Specifications
1.5-Liter Turbo 4-cylinder | |
Horsepower | 170 HP @ 5,600 RPM |
Torque | 203 LB-FT @ 2,000-4,000 RPM |
Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
Driveline | Front-Wheel Or All-Wheel Drive |
Fuel Economy (CMB) | 28 MPG (FWD)/27 MPG (AWD) |
Towing Capabilities and Payload Capacity
The 2022 Chevrolet Equinox, while primarily intended to be one of the best compact SUVs for everyday commuting and family use, does offer some light towing capabilities. All trims of the Equinox are equipped with the same 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, which allows for a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds. This towing capacity is suitable for small trailers, lightweight boats, or a pair of jet skis, making the Equinox a practical choice for weekend adventures that require hauling light loads.
In terms of payload capacity, the Equinox also delivers respectable numbers for its class. The payload capacity ranges from 1,114 to 1,190 pounds, depending on the trim level and drivetrain configuration. This payload range allows the Equinox to handle the weight of passengers, luggage, and additional cargo with ease, making it a versatile option for those who need to carry both people and gear.
Payload Capacity | 1,114-1,190 Pounds |
Towing Capacity | 1,500 Pounds |
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Fuel Efficiency
The 2022 Chevrolet Equinox offers excellent gas mileage for the compact SUV class, thanks to its small-displacement turbocharged engine. According to the EPA, the front-wheel-drive Equinox achieves an estimated 26 mpg in the city, 31 mpg on the highway, and 28 mpg combined. Opting for all-wheel drive slightly reduces these numbers to 25 mpg in the city, 30 mpg on the highway, and 27 mpg combined. These figures make the Equinox an economical choice for both urban commuting and longer road trips.
Fuel Economy:
Model | City | Highway | Combined | Annual Fuel Cost (est.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Chevrolet Equinox FWD | 26 MPG | 31 MPG | 28 MPG | $1,850 |
Chevrolet Equinox AWD | 25 MPG | 30 MPG | 27 MPG | $1,900 |
Interior Technology and Comfort
The interior of the 2022 Equinox is designed with a focus on comfort, functionality, and modern technology. The cabin features a clean and straightforward layout, with quality materials and a good mix of soft-touch surfaces. Chevrolet has equipped the Equinox with a host of standard and available features aimed at enhancing the driving experience and passenger comfort.
Best Interior Features:
- Standard 7-inch or available 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
- Available leather-appointed seating in Premier trim.
- Optional heated front seats and steering wheel.
- Dual-zone automatic climate control.
- Ample cargo space with split-folding rear seats.
The 2022 Equinox’s seats are supportive and provide ample cushioning, making long drives more comfortable. The available leather upholstery in higher trims adds a touch of luxury, while the spacious interior ensures that all passengers enjoy adequate headroom and legroom. The RS trim introduces a sportier vibe with its unique interior styling, featuring red stitching and black accents that complement the exterior's aggressive design.
Technology
The 2022 Equinox comes well-equipped with technology features across all trims. The base LS trim includes a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Chevrolet’s Infotainment 3 interface, which is intuitive and user-friendly. It also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless smartphone integration. Moving up to the LT and Premier trims adds an 8-inch touchscreen, satellite radio, and additional USB ports for increased connectivity.
The RS trim, new for 2022, includes a unique infotainment system with integrated navigation and a high-definition rearview camera. The Premier trim tops the lineup with advanced features like wireless charging, a premium Bose audio system, and a 360-degree camera system, enhancing both convenience and safety.
Cargo
Cargo space in the 2022 Equinox is sufficient for a compact SUV, offering 29.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats. Folding the rear seats down expands the cargo area to 63.9 cubic feet, providing ample space for larger items like bicycles or bulky luggage. While the Equinox doesn’t offer the cavernous cargo capacity of larger SUVs, it’s more than adequate for everyday needs and weekend getaways.
Interior Dimensions
Front | Rear | |
|---|---|---|
Headroom | 40.0 Inches | 38.5 Inches |
Shoulder room | 57.2 Inches | 55.5 Inches |
Hip Room | 54.2 Inches | 51.7 Inches |
Leg Room | 40.9 Inches | 39.9 Inches |
Cargo Capacity | 29.9-63.9 Cubic-Feet | |
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Safety
The 2022 Chevrolet Equinox has received high marks in safety, with a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. The Equinox also performed well in IIHS crash tests, earning a “Good” rating in most categories. Standard safety features on the Equinox include forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, front pedestrian braking, and a rear vision camera. Higher trims add features like rear cross-traffic alert, lane change alert with side blind zone alert, and adaptive cruise control, enhancing driver confidence and passenger safety.
Driver Assistance Features:
- Automatic emergency braking
- Forward collision alert
- Lane-keeping assist
- Lane departure warning
- Rearview camera
IIHS Crash Testing
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings
Overall Rating | 5 out of 5 |
Overall Front Crash Rating | 5 out of 5 |
Overall Side Crash Rating | 5 out of 5 |
Rollover Rating | 4 out of 5 |
- Recalls (NHTSA): 5
- NHTSA Investigations: 0
- NHTSA Consumer Complaints: 76
- Awards: IIHS Top Safety Pick (2021)
Reliability
The 2022 Equinox has a solid reputation for being one of the most reliable American SUVs, with J.D. Power giving it an overall reliability score of 90 out of 100. This score reflects the vehicle's dependability and the likelihood of it performing well over time. The Equinox's cost of ownership is also reasonable, with relatively low maintenance and repair costs compared to some competitors in the segment.
Warranties
The 2022 Chevrolet Equinox comes with a competitive warranty package, offering the following coverage:
- Basic Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
- Powertrain Warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
- Roadside Assistance: 5 years/60,000 miles
- Rust-Through Warranty: 6 years/100,000 miles
- First Maintenance Visit: Complimentary
Pricing and Availability
The 2022 Chevrolet Equinox is available in four trim levels: LS, LT, RS, and Premier, each offering a variety of features to suit different budgets and preferences. The starting price for the base LS trim is $25,800, while the LT trim starts around $26,900. The newly introduced RS trim, which adds a sportier look and feel, starts at $30,100. The top-of-the-line Premier trim, which offers the most luxurious features and options, is still one of the cheapest SUVs on the market with the prices starting at $31,000.
Price By Trim:
Trim Level | FWD | AWD |
|---|---|---|
LS | $25,800 | $27,400 |
LS Fleet | $26,000 | $27,600 |
LT | $26,900 | $28,500 |
LT Fleet | $27,300 | $28,900 |
RS | $30,100 | $31,700 |
Premier | $31,000 | $32,600 |
The Equinox is widely available across Chevrolet dealerships nationwide, with various incentives and financing options to suit different buyer needs. With its combination of style, safety, and technology, the 2022 Equinox remains a strong choice for those in the market for a compact SUV.
2022 Chevrolet Equinox Competitors
-
2022 Subaru Forester
The 2022 Subaru Forester is a versatile compact SUV that blends rugged capability with everyday practicality. Known for its standard all-wheel drive, the Forester is ideal for both city commutes and off-road adventures. It features a spacious and comfortable interior with ample cargo space, making it perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The 2022 model brings updated styling, enhanced safety features, and improved technology, including Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist system. Powered by a fuel-efficient 2.5-liter engine, the Forester offers a balanced performance, making it a reliable choice for those seeking a dependable and adventure-ready vehicle.
- Make
- Subaru
- Model
- Forester
- Segment
- SUVs
- Engine
- 2.5L H4 ICE
- Transmission
- 7-speed CVT
- Horsepower
- 182 HP @5800 RPM
- Torque
- 176 lb.-ft. @ 4400 RPM
- Driveline
- All-Wheel Drive
- Starting Price (MSRP)
- $25,895
- Fuel Economy
- 26/33/29 MPG
- Towing Capacity
- 1,500 lbs.
-
2022 Jeep Cherokee
The 2022 Jeep Cherokee is a compact SUV that combines off-road prowess with modern comfort and technology. Renowned for its rugged capability, the Cherokee is equipped with Jeep's signature 4x4 systems, making it well-suited for challenging terrains. The 2022 model offers a choice of powerful engines, including a turbocharged 2.0-liter and a 3.2-liter V6, ensuring a responsive and dynamic driving experience. Inside, the Cherokee boasts a refined cabin with advanced infotainment options, ample seating, and cargo space. With a strong emphasis on safety and versatility, the 2022 Jeep Cherokee is an excellent option for adventure-seekers and daily drivers alike.
- Make
- Jeep
- Model
- Cherokee
- Segment
- SUVs
- Engine
- 3.2L Pentastar V6 ICE
- Transmission
- TorqueFlite 9-speed automatic
- Horsepower
- 271 HP @6500 RPM
- Torque
- 239 lb.-ft. @ 4400 RPM
- Driveline
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Starting Price (MSRP)
- $34,895
- Fuel Economy
- 20/29/23 MPG
- Towing Capacity
- 2,000 lbs.
-
2022 GMC Terrain
The 2022 GMC Terrain is a stylish and practical compact SUV designed for those who prioritize comfort and technology. With a refreshed exterior featuring a bold grille and new LED lighting, the Terrain stands out with a more modern look. Under the hood, it offers a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine that balances performance with fuel efficiency, making it ideal for both city driving and highway cruising. Inside, the Terrain offers a well-appointed cabin with high-quality materials, intuitive infotainment, and ample cargo space. With a suite of advanced safety features and an available all-wheel-drive system, the 2022 GMC Terrain is a strong contender in the competitive compact SUV market.
- Make
- GMC
- Model
- Terrain
- Segment
- SUVs
- Engine
- 1.5L I4 ICE
- Transmission
- 9-speed automatic
- Horsepower
- 170 HP @5600 RPM
- Torque
- 203 lb.-ft. @ 2000 RPM
- Driveline
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Starting Price (MSRP)
- $28,400
- Fuel Economy
- 25/30/27 MPG
- Towing Capacity
- 1,500 lbs.
-
2022 Toyota RAV4
The 2022 Toyota RAV4 is a versatile and dependable compact SUV that continues to be a top choice for families and adventurers alike. With its bold styling and rugged design, the RAV4 offers a mix of urban sophistication and off-road capability. It comes equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers a balanced blend of power and fuel efficiency. The interior is spacious, featuring high-quality materials and an intuitive infotainment system, making every drive comfortable and connected. Standard advanced safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, ensure peace of mind, while available all-wheel drive enhances its versatility in various driving conditions.
- Make
- Toyota
- Model
- RAV4
- Segment
- SUVs
- Engine
- 2.5L Dynamic Force I4 ICE
- Transmission
- 8-speed automatic
- Horsepower
- 203 HP @6600 RPM
- Torque
- 184 lb.-ft. @ 5000 RPM
- Driveline
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Starting Price (MSRP)
- $26,975
- Fuel Economy
- 27/35/30 MPG
- Towing Capacity
- 1,500 lbs.
Conclusion
The 2022 Chevrolet Equinox is a versatile and reliable compact SUV that offers a good balance of features, performance, and comfort. With its refreshed design, updated technology, and strong safety credentials, the Equinox is a competitive choice in its class. While it may not be the most powerful SUV in its segment, its combination of fuel efficiency, practicality, and a comfortable ride makes it a solid option for those seeking a well-rounded vehicle for daily use.
