Is a Chevy Equinox a fast car?

No, the Chevy Equinox is not considered a fast car. It is a compact SUV designed for practicality and fuel efficiency rather than high-performance driving. While the Equinox has adequate power for everyday driving, it is not marketed or engineered as a sports car or high-speed vehicle.

Understanding the Chevy Equinox

The Chevy Equinox is a mid-size crossover SUV that has been in production since 2004. It is part of Chevrolet's lineup of family-oriented vehicles, competing with other popular compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape. The Equinox is known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and good fuel economy, but it is not designed for high-speed performance or aggressive driving.

Engine and Performance Specifications

The standard engine in the Chevy Equinox is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. An optional 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is available, which increases the output to 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, but even this more powerful engine is not enough to classify the Equinox as a fast car.

In terms of acceleration, the Equinox with the 1.5-liter engine can go from 0 to 60 mph in around 8.5 seconds, while the 2.0-liter model can do it in around 7 seconds. These are respectable times for a compact SUV, but they are not particularly fast compared to sports cars or high-performance vehicles.

Driving Dynamics and Handling

The Chevy Equinox is designed for comfortable, everyday driving rather than high-speed performance. It has a smooth, composed ride quality and predictable handling, but it is not known for its agility or responsiveness. The Equinox is more focused on providing a practical, family-friendly driving experience than delivering thrilling performance.

In summary, while the Chevy Equinox is a capable and well-rounded compact SUV, it is not considered a fast car. Its engine options and driving dynamics are optimized for practicality, fuel efficiency, and everyday usability rather than high-speed performance.

What car is equal to an Equinox?

The Chevy Equinox's main competitors are other compact SUVs like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Subaru Forester, along with its GM sibling, the GMC Terrain. Other competitors include the Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, and Nissan Rogue. 
This video compares the Chevy Equinox to some of its competitors: 1mEdmunds CarsYouTube · Sep 11, 2025
Direct competitors

• Toyota RAV4: Often compared for features, though it can have a higher price point. 
• Honda CR-V: A top competitor that offers more interior and cargo space than the Equinox, but sometimes at a higher cost. 
• Ford Escape: A direct American competitor that is frequently weighed against the Equinox, especially when considering value. 
• GMC Terrain: Shares many components with the Equinox, making it a very close competitor in size, features, and towing capacity, though the Equinox often has better MPG ratings. 
• Subaru Forester: Another key competitor in the compact SUV segment. 
• Hyundai Tucson: Considered a strong competitor with good features. 

Other key competitors

• Mazda CX-5: Often mentioned for having a more upscale interior and sportier performance than the Equinox. 
• Nissan Rogue: Competes closely with the Equinox, sometimes offering a different engine configuration. 
• Ford Bronco Sport: Competes with the Equinox, especially as another American-made option. 

Which Chevy Equinox to stay away from?

You should avoid Chevy Equinox years from 2010 to 2013, as they are known for issues like excessive oil consumption and transmission problems. Additionally, you may want to be cautious with early models from 2005 to 2008 and some newer 2020-2021 models due to other recurring concerns like control arm and fuel pump issues. 
Years to avoid

• 2005-2008: These early models are associated with rattling sounds from the front lower control arm and potential airbag system failures. 
• 2010-2013: This range is considered particularly problematic due to widespread issues with excessive oil consumption and transmission problems. 
• 2020-2021: Some owners report issues with specific engines and the fuel pump module, which can lead to engine stalls. 

Common problems in avoided years 

• Excessive oil consumption: Linked to worn piston rings or a faulty PCV system, requiring frequent oil top-offs. 
• Transmission issues: Can include hard shifting or complete failure, potentially caused by a faulty control module. 
• Airbag system failures: Recalls have been issued for some model years, as sensors or wiring issues can prevent airbags from deploying. 
• Fuel pump module problems: In some 2021-2022 models, a faulty module can lead to the engine stalling. 

How to choose a better model

• Years to look for: 2009, 2015–2017, and 2019–2020 are often cited as better years for the Equinox. 
• Third-generation models (2018-present): Generally have better reliability ratings and a wide range of modern safety features. 

How good of a vehicle is a Chevy Equinox?

The Chevy Equinox is generally considered a good and practical compact SUV, but it has some notable downsides. It offers a comfortable ride, good safety ratings, and a spacious interior, making it a popular choice. However, some model years can be less reliable, and its performance can feel slow with the base engine, and some drivers note the cabin can be noisy. 
Pros

• Comfortable ride: The Equinox is praised for its comfortable and stable ride, particularly the 2019 model, which can handle bumps and ruts well. Supportive seats are also a plus. 
• Good for families: Its spacious interior is well-suited for families, with easy-to-access Latch anchors for car seats and stable buckle stalks for booster seats. 
• Good safety ratings: It has received good safety scores, including a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS for certain years. 
• Reliable if maintained: With consistent maintenance, the Equinox can be a reliable and long-lasting vehicle, with some owners reporting reaching 200,000 miles or more. 
• Good value: It's considered a good value, especially in the used market, with a wide range of features and options available. 

Cons

• Cabin noise: The Equinox is noted for being louder than some competitors due to engine, road, and wind noise, which can cause vibrations in the steering wheel and pedals. 
• Underpowered base engine: The standard engine can feel slow, especially when merging or passing, though an available upgrade can improve this. 
• Mixed reliability for certain model years: Some older models have a history of issues like oil consumption and transmission problems. Model years from 2018 and 2019 have received more complaints than some other years in its generation. 

What to consider before buying

• Model year: Check for reviews and reliability ratings specific to the model year you are considering. Newer models (2020 onwards) have shown more consistent reliability. 
• Maintenance history: Because reliability can vary by model year, a thorough inspection and a vehicle history report are essential. 
• Engine option: If you prioritize performance, consider a model with the upgraded engine, such as the turbocharged 2.0-liter. 
• Test drive: Test drive the vehicle to see if the ride quality and cabin noise level are acceptable for you. 

How fast is a Chevy Equinox?

120mph
Performance: Equinox

2021 Chevrolet Equinox Engine Specs
Trim Levels	Engine Size	Top Speed
Premier	1.5L Turbocharged 4-cylinder	120mph (Estimated)
RS	1.5L Turbocharged 4-cylinder	120mph (Estimated)
LT	1.5L Turbocharged 4-cylinder	120mph (Estimated)