Which is better an Equinox or Trailblazer?

Chevy’s best-selling SUV, the 2022 Chevrolet Equinox is a mainstay among compact SUVs. It’s now joined by the subcompact 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer. Here’s how they compare.

2022 Chevrolet Equinox

Above Average: Standard safety features; roomy rear seat; optional all-wheel drive.

Below Average: Cargo space; one engine/transmission choice; sporty RS doesn’t mean more power.

Consensus: Chevy’s best-selling SUV, the 2022 Equinox boasts good space for passengers, comfortable driving manners, and ample standard safety features. Maximum cargo space is a bit small compared to some competitors, and it offers only one engine option.

2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer

Above Average: Choice of engines; optional all-wheel drive; stylish look; roomy for its size; good standard tech.

Below Average: Jittery ride on uneven pavement; 3-cylinder engines; no standard cruise control.

Consensus: A stylish subcompact SUV, the 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer impresses with good space considering its size and a fair number of standard safety and tech features at a low price. Neither of the available engines is particularly powerful, however, and the ride can be bumpy on rough roads.

Equinox vs. Trailblazer: Affordable Options

Chevrolet Equinox

In the highly competitive 2-row compact SUV segment, the 2022 Equinox has been a good seller for Chevrolet due to its affordable price, good standard features, and comfortable driving manners. A 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine sends power to either the front or all four wheels via a 6-speed automatic. Its 170 horsepower may not seem like much, but it’s plenty to keep the compact moving, and the Equinox can even tow up to 1,500 pounds.

With an update for 2022, the exterior has a wider and more aggressive grille and a more rugged rear look as well. Higher trims like the new RS sport such things as bigger wheels and a gloss-black grille.

Inside, the seats are comfortable and supportive, and a touchscreen sits in the center. We also like its buttons and knobs for climate and audio controls. It boasts good legroom in the rear, and the bench reclines. Cargo space is a fair 63.9 cubic feet with all seats folded, although that’s small compared to its competitors.

Standard features are pretty basic and include cloth seats, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, four USB ports, and OnStar. Safety features include forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Upper trims get such things as leather seats, adaptive cruise control, more safety features, and a premium audio system.

Chevrolet Trailblazer

Positioned between the entry-level Trax and Equinox, the 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer is the newest member of the division’s range of SUVs. For a subcompact SUV, it has a lot to offer, including a roomy backseat (considering its size) to go with 54.4 cubic feet of cargo space.

The base engine in the 2002 Trailblazer is a 1.2-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder that is, frankly, a little weak, with not much oomph on the highway. It’s paired with either front- or all-wheel drive. Also available is a 1.3-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder with a bit more power, which sends 155 horsepower through a 9-speed automatic to all four wheels. It’s a little better than the base engine, but neither will get your blood boiling. However, this kind of performance is pretty standard among subcompact SUVs.

We like the sporty exterior look of the Trailblazer, with its angular lines and optional two-tone roof. Inside, it’s comfortable and accommodating, with sufficient rear legroom for adults. Controls are clear and easy to use, and while the lower trims have cloth and harder plastics, upper trims offer leatherette and some nicer interior materials.

Standard features include a 7-inch screen with 4G LTE Wi-Fi, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a back-up camera. Standard safety features come via the Chevy Safety Assist suite, with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, lane-departure warning, forward-collision alert, and automatic high beams.

Upper trims go in different ways, with the Activ trim having a skidplate, off-road suspension, sport tires, and a distinct front look. RS goes for more of a sporty vibe. Various options add leatherette seating, 8-inch infotainment system, more driver-assist features, and a Bose premium audio system.

Similarities

Available AWD; NHTSA 5-star safety rating; neither comes with standard cruise control.

2022 Chevrolet Equinox Advantages

Cargo space; more fun to drive; more powerful engine.

2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer Advantages

Lower price; fuel economy; choice of engines.

Which One is Right for Me?

With a decent starting price, good standard features, and lively driving manners, the 2022 Chevrolet Equinox is a perfectly pleasant compact SUV, with good space for passengers and cargo and plenty of optional upgrades.

Classified as a subcompact, the 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer is surprisingly not that much smaller inside, with essentially the same interior dimensions save for shoulder room and a somewhat smaller cargo hold.

Ready to buy a Chevrolet Equinox or Chevrolet Trailblazer? Shop for one on sale now near you

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