As a whole, it’s hardly a well-kept secret that the crossover / SUV segment has developed to the point where it’s over-inundated. Saturation has left us with a notable lack of substance, as each and every automaker works to infuse a sporty aesthetic into the design equivalent of door-stops, to offset their recent desire to incorporate every feature imaginable (barring only the kitchen sink). But among domestic manufacturers especially have seemed to struggle to bridge the gap between comprehensive offerings and innovative design philosophies. Ford’s lineup, for example, feels about as piecemeal and inconsistent as imaginable, cobbled together to lackluster effect.
Chevy, on the other hand, has been successful in creating a consistent design philosophy (second only, in my opinion, to Mazda) that remains on-brand while allowing for the individuality of each model identity. Factor in Chevy’s aptitude for incorporating a breadth of technology while retaining an accessible price point, and you have an instant win for the cost-conscious buyer.
And the 2019 Chevy Equinox might be one the best examples out there. Priced to start at $23,800 MSRP, the Equinox was named “Most Dependable Compact SUV” by J.D. Power and Associates and earned a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the NHTSA. It offers an accommodating 63.5 cubic feet of cargo space and delivers a confident 39 highway mpg when configured with the available 1.6-liter turbodiesel engine. And that’s on top of the optional 1.5 and 2.0-liter variants capable of up to 252 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. That’s a whole lot of good crammed into one place.
But the AWD Equinox is anything but ‘crammed in.’ It offers a welcoming and comfortable cabin experience with ample space, equipped with all of Chevy’s signature amenities. And that comfort is accentuated by the peace of mind it delivers from such optional driver-assistive features as Low-Speed Forward Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Departure Warning and Forward Collision Alert.
Oh, and did we mention that it looks damn good. The 2019 Equinox arrives elegantly contoured with an overall appearance that speaks to refinement. Is it sporty? Sure. Is there even a hint of lively aggression in its front fascia? Of course. But possibly more than any other model, the Equinox represents the refinement of Chevy’s design philosophy, attached to an accessible price tag. What more could you ask for?
If you’re interested in taking a closer look at the 2019 Chevy Equinox, we encourage you to step outside and experience one for yourself. But if that’s not an immediate option, take a minute to watch this in-depth walk-through video and let us know what you think.
