Chevrolet
Chevrolet Equinox
A comfortable, well-priced compact crossover with a small turbo engine that needs its cooling system watched.
The third-generation Equinox does the ordinary things well. It rides quietly, the seats are comfortable on long drives, cargo space is competitive and the pricing — especially used, after GM's steep depreciation — undercuts a comparable RAV4 or CR-V by thousands.
The 1.5-liter turbo is the engine you will encounter, and it is adequate rather than good: 170 horsepower moving a 3,300-pound crossover means merging requires planning. More importantly, owners report coolant loss on these engines that does not always leave a visible puddle. Any unexplained drop in the overflow tank deserves a pressure test rather than a top-off, because overheating on a small turbo engine escalates quickly.
Beyond that, ownership is inexpensive. Parts are cheap, the 6-speed automatic on 1.5L cars is a conventional unit rather than a CVT, and routine service is well within reach of any independent shop or a competent owner with a jack.
Generations
What changed, and which years share the same hardware.
Second generation
2010–2017
Sold in huge numbers with the 2.4L Ecotec four, which generated extensive owner reports of excessive oil consumption from piston ring and timing chain issues, and the smoother 3.6L V6. Check oil consumption history carefully on any example from this era.
Third generation
2018–2024
Substantially smaller and lighter, built on the D2XX platform with a 1.5L turbo four as the volume engine and a 2.0L turbo above it. A 2022 refresh restyled the front end and dropped the 2.0L. Ride quality and cabin quietness improved markedly over the second generation.
Fourth generation
2025–present
Reskinned on an updated platform with more upright styling, larger standard screens, and the 1.5L turbo continuing as the sole gasoline engine alongside a separate battery-electric Equinox EV sold in parallel.
Model years
Reliability, reported issues and annual running costs, year by year.