Manufactured by Chevrolet, the Equinox is a compact crossover SUV. Introduced in 2004, the Chevy Equinox has been in production for more than a decade. In fact, sales of the Chevy Equinox have increased steadily since it was released.
The current 2022 Chevrolet Equinox lineup offers four trim levels: LS, LT, RS, and Premier. Although front-wheel drive is standard for the Equinox, drivers can upgrade to an all-wheel-drive system. All models are equipped with a four-cylinder turbocharged 1.5L engine that boasts a horsepower of 170. Up to five people can be seated in the cabin.
While the Chevrolet Equinox has remained a popular vehicle for more than a decade, there are plenty of fantastic alternatives. In this article, we’ll break down the best alternatives to this compact crossover SUV from Chevy!
1. Buick Encore
When it comes down to the best modern SUVs, Buick’s 2021 Encore is a compact vehicle that packs a punch! This smooth ride is equipped with a four-cylinder turbocharged 1.4L engine. There are two trim levels to choose from with the 2021 Encore. There’s the base model, which is a front-wheel drive, and the all-wheel Preferred model.
The base model of the 2021 Encore has a combined city and highway MPG of 27.5, while the Preferred model has a combined MPG of 26.5. This equally luxurious and compact SUV can seat up to five adults in the cabin. The seats in the 2021 Encore are also elevated in order to maximize your comfort. For Buick’s 2021 Encore, you’re looking at a price range of $24,000 to $26,000.
You can find more information here, on Buick’s official website.
2. Chevrolet Trailblazer
Chevrolet’s 2021 Trailblazer is an equally bold and subcompact crossover SUV. There are four different trim options for potential buyers to choose from: LS, LT, Activ, and RS. There are two engine choices. Firstly, there’s the turbocharged three-cylinder 1.2L engine with 137 horsepower. Then there’s the turbocharged three-cylinder 1.3L engine with 155 horsepower.
Slightly bigger than the Chevrolet Trax discussed below, the 2021 Trailblazer can seat up to five people. The Trailblazer is available as both a front-wheel and all-wheel drive. Drivers are looking at a combined city and highway MPG between 28 and 31. For the 2021 Trailblazer, the price will range between $22,000 and $27,000.
You can find more information here, on Chevrolet’s official website.
3. Chevrolet Traverse
For those with a need for speed and space, the 2021 Chevrolet Traverse may be the perfect mid-size SUV. Overall, there are five trim levels to choose between: L, LS, RS, Premier, and High Country. The Traverse is available as an all-wheel drive. With a powerful 3.6L V6 engine, you’ll forget you’re driving an SUV!
Chevrolet’s Traverse has a combined city and highway MPG of 22.5. Depending on the selected trim level, the 2021 Traverse can comfortably seat up to eight people in three rows. Adult passengers will even be able to fit into the third row, unlike many competitors. Complete with an intuitive and responsive infotainment system, there’s something for everyone here! Potential buyers are looking at a price range of $30,000 to $53,000.
You can find more information here, on Chevrolet’s official website.
4. Chevrolet Trax
Chevrolet’s 2021 Trax is a fantastic entry-level SUV for those looking for a compact ride. All of the Trax models from Chevrolet come standard with a four-cylinder, turbocharged 1.4L engine. There are two trim levels for potential buyers to choose from, namely the LS and LT. The 2021 Trax from Chevrolet is available as both a front- and all-wheel drive.
With a compact cabin that prioritizes your head and legroom, the 2021 Trax can seat up to five people. When compared to similar competitors, however, the cargo space in the Trax can be limited. The 2021 Trax models have a combined city and highway MPG of 28.5. The price range for the 2021 Chevrolet Trax is $22,000 to $25,000.
You can find more information here, on Chevrolet’s official website.
5. Fiat 500X
The 2021 Fiat 500X is a subcompact SUV that blends Fiat’s signature style with a powerful engine. All of the 2021 500X models from Fiat come standard as all-wheel drives and are fitted with turbocharged four-cylinder engines. The Fiat 500X with a 1.3L engine has a horsepower of 177. With the 2021 500X, you’re looking at a combined highway and city MPG of 27.
With a stylish interior, this subcompact SUV from Fiat can seat up to five people. Potential buyers have the choice between four different trim levels: Pop, Trekking, Sport, and Trekking Plus. For families, the cargo space may be too limited. For the 2021 500X, you’re looking at a price range of $26,000 to $32,000.
You can find more information here, on Fiat’s official website.
6. Ford Eco-Sport
Ford’s 2021 Eco-Sport is a dynamic and affordable subcompact crossover. For the 2021 model, Ford offers four different trim levels for the Eco-Sport: S, SE, Titanium, and SES 4WD. Prospective buyers have the option of a turbocharged three- or four-cylinder engine. Depending on the trim level selected, the 2021 Eco-Sport’s horsepower will range between 123 and 166.
The three-cylinder Eco-Sport has a combined city and highway MPG of 28, whereas the four-cylinder Eco-Sport has a combined MPG of 26. With a highly functional interior cabin, the 2021 models can seat up to five people in two rows. With generous cargo space, this is a great choice for families! For the 2021 Ford Eco-Sport, buyers are looking at a price range of $21,000 to $29,000.
You can find more information here, on Ford’s official website.
7. Ford Escape
Ford’s 2021 Escape is a compact SUV that goes where you need it to, whether that’s on or off-road! For the 2021 Escape, there are four different powertrain options for buyers to choose from. This includes hybrid models! Overall, there are ten different trim levels to choose from. This SUV is available as both a front-wheel and all-wheel drive.
Depending on the trim level selected, the 2021 Escape models will have a combined city and highway MPG that ranges between 26 and 30. The sleek interior cabin of the Escape can seat up to five people in two rows. The majority of the Escape models come with Ford’s latest infotainment system, Sync 3. Those interested in Ford’s 2021 Escape are looking at a price range of $26,000 to $41,000.
You can find more information here, on Ford’s official website.
8. GMC Terrain
For those looking for a handsomely compact crossover SUV, the GMC Terrain might be the perfect option! GMC offers four different trim levels for the 2021 GMC: SL, SLE, SLT, and Denali. There are two four-cylinder engines to choose from: a 1.5L engine or a 2.0L turbocharged engine. The GMC Terrain is available as an all-wheel drive.
The turbocharged Terrain models boast a combined MPG of 27.5. The 2021 Terrain features an accommodating cabin that can comfortably seat up to five people. The Terrain even comes standard with an onboard WIFI hotspot! Potential buyers are looking at a price range of $26,000 to $37,000 for the 2021 GMC Terrain.
You can find more information here, on GMC’s official website.
9. Honda CR-V
If you’re looking for a compact crossover that’s both spacious and fuel-efficient, you’ll love the Honda CR-V! There are seven trim levels offered by Honda for the 2022 CR-V: LX, EX, EX-L, EX Hybrid, EX-L Hybrid, Touring, and Touring Hybrid. This crossover is available as a front-wheel and all-wheel drive. Whether you go for a hybrid model or the 1.5L turbocharged engine, you’ll have a smooth drive!
The all-wheel-drive CR-V’s have a combined city and highway MPG of 29.5. The sleek interior cabin has ample room for the whole family, from seating to the cargo space! The 2021 CR-V can comfortably seat up to five adults. Depending on the selected trim, potential buyers are looking at a price range of $26,000 to $38,000.
You can find more information here, on Honda’s official website.
10. Hyundai Santa Fe
Hyundai’s 2021 Santa Fe is a striking SUV that offers decent fuel efficiency. There are two turbocharged powertrains to choose from, a 1.6L four-cylinder engine or a 2.5L four-cylinder engine. There is also a hybrid powertrain option available for consumers to choose from. The 2021 Santa Fe is available as either a front-wheel or all-wheel drive.
With this stylish SUV from Hyundai, you’re looking at a highway MPG of up to 28. With an equally attractive interior cabin, the Santa Fe can comfortably seat up to five people in two rows. The rear seats can be folded down to maximize the already ample cargo space. The 2021 Santa Fe comes standard with Hyundai’s driver-assistance technology. Potential buyers are looking at a price range of $28,000 to $42,000.
You can find more information here, on Hyundai’s official website.
11. Jeep Cherokee
The 2021 Jeep Cherokee is a compact crossover SUV that’s a testament to Jeep’s craftmanship. Potential buyers have the option of choosing between nine different trim levels. The 2021 Cherokee comes standard with a four-cylinder 2.4L engine. However, there’s always the 2.4L and 3.2L four-cylinder turbocharged engines for you to choose from!
The most fuel-efficient Cherokee model has a combined city and highway MPG of 27. The Cherokee is available as an all-wheel drive. Depending on the trim selected, the 2021 Cherokee can seat up to seven people in the cabin. With renowned off-roading capabilities, this crossover from Jeep can do it all! For the 2021 models, the price will range between $28,000 and $39,000.
You can find more information here, on Jeep’s official website.
12. Kia Sorento
Kia’s 2021 Sorento is a mid-size crossover that combines a stylish body with a luxurious cabin. From the hybrid model to a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, there are many powertrain options for potential buyers to choose from! Depending on which of the eight trim levels you select, the Sorento’s horsepower will range between 191 and 281.
Kia’s turbocharged Sorento models have a combined city and highway MPG of 26, while the hybrid model’s combined MPG is 37. The spacious cabin can seat up to seven people in three rows. With a fantastic infotainment system that ties all of these great elements together, this is a great crossover! The price for the 2021 Sorento will range between $30,000 and $44,000.
You can find more information here, on Kia’s official website.
13. Kia Soul
Kia’s 2022 Soul is a stylish subcompact crossover – inside and outside. For the 2022 line, Kia offers six different trim levels: LX, S, X-Line, GT-Line, EX, and Turbo. The base model is equipped with a four-cylinder 2.0L engine that has a horsepower of 147. The highest trim level features a turbocharged four-cylinder 1.6L engine with 201 horsepower.
The 2022 Soul comes standard as a front-wheel drive, and potential buyers are looking at an estimated combined MPG of 31. Up to five people can be seated within the spacious cabin. Touchscreen infotainment systems are standard across all of the trim levels. Buyers are looking at a price range of $20,000 to $29,000 for this subcompact crossover from Kia.
You can find more information here, on Kia’s official website.
14. Kia Sportage
For those looking for a sleek and compact crossover SUV, Kia’s 2021 Sportage may be the right fit. With the Sportage, there are plenty of turbocharged engines for potential buyers to choose from. In total, there are four trim levels: LX, S, EX, and SX Turbo. Buyers will have the option of choosing between a front-wheel and an all-wheel drive.
Depending on your choice of engine, the combined city and highway MPG for the 2021 Sportage will range between 21 and 27. With a functional and stylish interior cabin, the Sportage can comfortably seat up to five people. Every model comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. For the 2021 Sportage, you’re looking at a price range of $25,000 to $35,000.
You can find more information here, on Kia’s official website.
15. Mazda CX-5
The 2021 CX-5 is a stunning compact crossover SUV from Mazda. There are seven different trim levels available for the 2021 line: Sport, Touring, Carbon Edition, Grand Touring, Carbon Edition Turbo, Grand Touring Reserve, and Signature. Potential buyers have the option between a front-wheel and all-wheel drive. The standard CX-5 is equipped with a four-cylinder engine that boasts a horsepower of 187.
The front-wheel, non-turbocharged CX-5 models have a combined city and highway MPG of 28. With a luxurious interior cabin and ample cargo space, the CX-5 easily stands out from competitors. Every model comes standard with a 10.3-inch infotainment system. For the 2021 CX-5, you’re looking at a price range of $26,000 to $39,000.
You can find more information here, on Mazda’s official website.
16. Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
Mitsubishi’s 2021 Outlander Sport is a subcompact crossover that’s packed with the features you’d expect from a modern vehicle. Overall, there are six trim levels to choose from: S, ES, LE, SE, Black Edition, and GT. There are two powertrain options available: a four-cylinder 2.0L engine (148 horsepower) and a 2.4L engine (168 horsepower).
The 2021 Outlander Sport is available as an all-wheel drive. Depending on the trim level selected, you’re looking at an average combined city and highway MPG of 26 to 27. The Outlander Sport features a stripped-back interior cabin that can seat up to seven people. Those interested in this subcompact crossover from Mitsubishi are looking at a price range of $22,000 to $28,000.
You can find more information here, on Mitsubishi’s official website.
17. Nissan Kicks
The 2021 Nissan Kicks is a compact SUV that’s both stylish and practical. For the 2021 range, Nissan offers three different trim levels: S, SV, and SR. All 2021 Kicks models from Nissan come standard with a four-cylinder engine that boasts 122 horsepower. This sleek SUV also comes standard as an all-wheel drive.
The 2021 Nissan Kicks has a combined city and highway MPG of 33.5. With a spacious cabin, the 2021 Kicks can seat up to five people in two rows. Complete with an intuitive infotainment system, this SUV gives consumers the bang for their buck. Potential buyers are looking at a price range of $20,000 to $24,000.
You can find more information here, on Nissan’s official website.
18. Nissan Rogue
The 2021 Nissan Rogue is a stylish and compact SUV that features a design overhaul from previous year models. There are a total of four trim levels offered: S, SV, SL, and Platinum. The Rogue comes standard with a four-cylinder 2.5L engine that boasts a horsepower of 181. You’ll have the choice between a front-wheel or all-wheel drive!
With a front-wheel-drive Rogue, you’re looking at a combined MPG of 31, whereas the all-wheel-drive has a combined MPG of 29.5. With a well-thought-out interior cabin that maximizes efficiency, the 2021 Rogue can comfortably seat up to five people. The price will range between $27,000 and $37,0000.
You can find more information here, on Nissan’s official website.
19. Nissan Rogue Sport
For those looking for a fuel-efficient and compact SUV, the 2021 Rogue Sport from Nissan is a fantastic option! Available as both a front-wheel and all-wheel drive, there are three trim levels to choose from. All of the 2021 Rogue Sport models are fitted with a 2.0L four-cylinder engine that has a horsepower of 141.
Nissan’s 2021 Rogue Sport models have a combined MPG of 29. With a highly spacious interior cabin, the Rogue Sport can comfortably seat up to five people. With a fantastic infotainment system and plenty of safety features, the Rogue Sport is the whole package. Depending on the chosen trim level, the price will range between $25,000 and $30,000.
You can find more information here, on Nissan’s official website.
20. Subaru Crosstrek
The 2021 Crosstrek from Subaru is a modern and rugged subcompact SUV. Those interested in this smooth ride will have a choice between five different trim levels: Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Hybrid. Like the other vehicles manufactured by Subaru, the 2021 Crosstrek comes standard as an all-wheel drive.
The base trim level of the Crosstrek features a four-cylinder engine with a horsepower of 152 and a combined city and highway MPG of 30. With a stripped-back and durable interior cabin, the Crosstrek can comfortably seat five people in two rows. All models feature Subaru’s StarLink infotainment system. The price for the 2021 models will range between $23,000 and $37,000.
You can find more information here, on Subaru’s official website.
21. Subaru Forester
Subaru’s 2021 Forester is an SUV that’s equally versatile and compact. Like other Subaru vehicles, the Forester comes standard as an all-wheel drive. Potential buyers will have the choice between five different trim levels: Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Touring. Regardless of the selected trim, the 2021 Forster is powered by a four-cylinder 2.5L engine with a horsepower of 182.
With an interior cabin that prioritizes functionality, this compact SUV can comfortably seat five people in two rows. With generous cargo space and an intuitive infotainment system, this is the perfect SUV for those with a flair for adventure. Depending on the chosen trim, the 2021 Forester’s price will range between $25,000 and $36,000.
You can find more information here, on Subaru’s official website.
22. Subaru Outback
If you’re looking for the best of a station wagon merged with the hallmarks of an SUV, look no further than Subaru’s 2021 Outback. There are eight trim levels offered: Base, Premium, Limited, Onyx Edition XT, Wilderness, Touring, Limited XT, and Touring XT. There are two powertrains available. You could opt for the 2.5L engine with 182 horsepower, or the turbocharged 2.4L engine with 260 horsepower.
The 2021 Outback comes standard as an all-wheel drive, regardless of your engine choice. The non-turbocharged Outback has a combined MPG of 29.5, while the turbocharged Outback has a combined MPG of 26.5. With a high-quality interior cabin, the Outback can seat up to five people in two rows. For this crossover from Subaru, the price will range between $28,000 and $41,000.
You can find more information here, on Subaru’s official website.
23. Toyota RAV4
The 2021 RAV4 from Toyota is a compact SUV that will appeal to a wide variety of drivers! In total, there are six trim levels offered by Toyota for the 2021 line: LE, XLE, XLE Premium, Adventure, Limited, and TRD Off-Road. Traditionally a front-wheel drive, the 2021 RAV4 is now also offered as an all-wheel drive. The 2021 RAV4 model is equipped with a four-cylinder 2.5L engine that boasts a horsepower of 203.
For the 2021 RAV4 models, you’re looking at a combined MPG range of 28 to 35. Despite its compactness, this compact SUV prioritizes interior space. Lower trims are equipped with a 7-inch infotainment system, while higher trims feature an 8-inch display. Depending on the selected trim, the price for the 2021 RAV4 will range between $27,000 and $38,000.
You can find more information here, on Toyota’s official website.
24. Volkswagen Taos
The 2022 Taos from Volkswagen is an affordable compact SUV. For the 2022 Taos, there are three trim levels offered: S, SE, and SEL. The Taos is equipped with a four-cylinder 1.5L turbocharged engine that has a horsepower of 158. The Taos is available as both a front-wheel and all-wheel drive.
Volkswagen estimates that the 2022 Taos will have a combined city and highway MPG of 32. The design of this crossover is remarkably similar to the other cars in Volkswagen’s current lineup. The 2022 Taos can seat up to five people in the spacious cabin. Potential buyers are looking at a price range of $24,000 to $33,000.
You can find more information here, on Volkswagen’s official website.
25. Volkswagen Tiguan
For those looking for an SUV with sportscar-like agility, look no further than the 2021 Tiguan from Volkswagen! Powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, there are five trim levels for potential buyers to choose from: S, SE, SE R-Line Black, SEL, SEL premium R-Line. Drivers have the option of getting the 2021 Tiguan as a front-wheel or all-wheel drive.
For the 2021 Tiguan, you’re looking at a combined highway and city MPG of 26. Featuring Volkswagen’s signature interior styling, the Tiguan can be purchased as a two- or three-row SUV. Complete with a sleek touchscreen infotainment system, this is an overall great SUV! Potential buyers are looking at a price range of $26,000 to $41,000.
You can find more information here, on Volkswagen’s official website.
Sources:
Honda Automobiles: Honda CR-V
Buick: Encore
Chevrolet: Trailblazer
Chevrolet: Trax
Chevrolet: Traverse
Fiat USA: 500X
Ford: Eco Sport
Ford: Escape
GMC: Terrain
Hyundai USA: Santa Fe
Jeep: Cherokee
KIA: Sorento
KIA: Soul
Mazda USA: CX-5
Mitsubishi Cars: Outlander Sport
Nissan USA: Rogue Sport
Nissan USA: Kicks
Nissan USA: Rogue
Subaru: Crosstrek
Subaru: Forester
Subaru: Outback
Toyota: RAV4
Volkswagen: Taos
Volkswagen: Tiguan
