The market for compact crossovers these days is vast. This vehicle class has become so popular that just about every automaker is manufacturing them now. However, that does not mean that every compact SUV is equal. Some are simply better than others, and the new 2021 Chevy Equinox is one of those models. Boasting a well-appointed cabin and plenty of upgrade options, this petite crossover packs quite a punch. To help you understand just how great of a vehicle it is, we’ve put together a list of 10 features and packages we think you’ll enjoy.
#10 – The Powertrain
Is the 2021 Chevy Equinox a compact crossover? Yes. Does that mean that it is weak? Absolutely not! This peppy ride is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder motor that pumps out 170 hp and 203 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, this model is the perfect daily driver. You should also note that any mode except the L can be fitted with an all-wheel drive system. So, if you plan on doing any sort of off-roading, you may want to set your sights on the higher trims.
#9 – Forward Collision Mitigation
The engineers at Chevrolet take safety very seriously. That’s why every 2021 Chevy Equinox model comes equipped with several standard safety systems. The first feature that is one of the best is the Forward Collision Alert and Automatic Emergency Braking. Using a front-facing camera, this component will determine if you may collide with a vehicle ahead of you or an oncoming obstacle. If it looks like you are going to hit something, then the systemwide notify you to take evasive action. If no input is given by you, the system will apply the brakes to bring the Equinox to a halt before a crash occurs or in an effort to mitigate any damage. Head-on collisions are some of the most dangerous crashes, and this advanced feature set helps to avoid them at all costs.
#8 – Lane Departure Mitigation
Another standard safety system set is the Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning. Using a series of side-mounted sensors, this element will keep tabs on the lines in the road. If the Equinox begins to drift outside the designated lane, the system will prompt you to correct your course. If you take no action, it can make minor steering adjustments to get you back to the center of the lane. This feature is ideal if you frequently go on long trips. Although we all hate to admit it, getting drowsy behind the wheel is quite common. To help keep you safe, Lane Keep Assist and Lane Departure Warning are here to help!
#7 – Advanced Connectivity
Every 2021 Chevy Equinox is equipped with an advanced infotainment system that offers high-tech connectivity features. Not only do you get your own 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, but you also get Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. Want to find the nearest gas station or local eatery? You can do so quickly using the 7-inch touchscreen interface. There is no need to pull your phone out. Want to listen to a YouTube video on a long trip? You can do that too! Keep in mind that this multimedia center also includes four USB ports for charging several mobile devices at the same time.
#6 – Rear Seat Reminder
As an added safety feature, Rear Seat Reminder will remember when you open the back doors prior to turning on the vehicle. When you arrive at your destination, the system will alert you to look in the back before you get out. You won’t have to worry about forgetting anything in the back ever again.
#5 – The Confidence & Convenience Package
If you opt for the LT trim, you can add several packages to the mix for better features. One of the most highly sought-after packages is the Confidence & Convenience suite. It starts off with remote engine technology. This enables you to get the vehicle going before you go outside. When you slip behind the leather-wrapped steering wheel, you will notice the heated seats in the front and the dual-zone climate control system. A power liftgate has also been installed.
As for safety, this package also adds Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Rear Park Assist. Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone will alert you when another vehicle drives up beside you and indicates that it is unsafe to change lanes. Rear Cross Traffic Alert will tell you when another vehicle moves behind you while you are traveling in reverse, and Rear Park Assist will ensure that you never cause a fender bender again.
#4 – The Leather Package
If you opt for the Confidence & Convenience suite, then you can also add the Leather package. Not only does this upgrade the interior to full leather upholstery, but it also includes memory settings for the driver’s chair. Auto-dimming side mirrors and an auto-dimming rearview mirror are all included to help prevent the glare from other vehicles hurting your eyes at night.
#3 – The Infotainment Package
Another suite that you can add if you choose to get the Confidence & Convenience package is the Infotainment Package. This upgrades the infotainment touchscreen to an 8-inch unit. The rearview camera also gets upgraded to an HD model, and a navigation system is added. Finally, a 120-volt household-style power outlet has been installed for more connectivity options.
#2 – The Confidence & Convenience II Package
If you choose the top-tier Premier trim, then you can add a few packages to that as well. First is the Confidence & Convenience II Package. This package adds a heated steering wheel and power-adjustability to the front passenger seat. It also includes ventilated front seats and heated seats in the back. Added safety systems include the HD Surround Vision system, Adaptive Cruise Control, and the Safety Alert Seat. The HD Surround Vision provides you with a birds-eye-view of what’s going on around you before you move from your parking space. Meanwhile, Adaptive Cruise Control enables you to set a speed limit and a following distance. The system will adjust the speed of the Equinox to match the flow of traffic.
#1 – The Infotainment II Package
At the top of the list is the Infotainment II Package. Available on the Premier trim level, this suite adds a navigation system to the infotainment system. You can plot a course with multiple stops and find the fastest route easily. It also includes an upgraded Bose stereo with 7 speakers and the larger 8-inch infotainment screen. For more of a studio-quality listening experience, this is the suite to get!
Find a 2021 Chevy Equinox
Are you excited about the new 2021 Chevy Equinox? This petite model can carry five people, and it offers 29.9 cubic feet of cargo room in the back. If you need more space than that, you can fold down the second row of seating to reveal the maximum cargo area measuring 63.9 cubic feet. Just because it is classified as a compact crossover doesn’t mean that it is too small. With cargo space like that, there is plenty of room for folks with active lifestyles. Now that you have a better idea of what to expect from the Equinox, you can pick which model is best suited to your daily driving needs. Get in touch with your local Chevrolet dealer to schedule a test drive in one of these models now.
