Equinox vs. Traverse: Sizing Up Chevrolet’s SUVs

Let’s cut to the chase: the Chevrolet Traverse is significantly bigger than the Chevrolet Equinox. Think of the Equinox as your versatile daily driver and the Traverse as the family hauler. This article will break down the size differences in detail and answer common questions to help you decide which SUV is right for you.

Decoding Chevrolet’s SUV Lineup: Size Matters

The Chevrolet SUV lineup caters to a wide range of needs, from compact agility to spacious family comfort. Understanding where the Equinox and Traverse fall within that spectrum is crucial. The Equinox occupies the compact SUV segment, while the Traverse firmly sits in the mid-size SUV category, offering three rows of seating.

Dimensions Demystified: A Head-to-Head Comparison

Numbers don’t lie. Let’s dive into the specific dimensions to illustrate the size disparity between these two popular SUVs.

• Overall Length: The Traverse boasts a considerable length advantage, typically exceeding the Equinox by over 20 inches. This extra length translates directly into more cargo space and passenger room, particularly in the third row.

• Wheelbase: A longer wheelbase contributes to a smoother ride and increased stability. The Traverse’s longer wheelbase, again, signifies its larger overall footprint.

• Width: The Traverse is also wider than the Equinox, further contributing to its more substantial interior volume. This width allows for more shoulder and hip room for passengers.

• Height: The height difference is less dramatic, but the Traverse is generally taller than the Equinox, contributing to increased headroom, particularly in the second and third rows.

• Cargo Capacity: This is where the Traverse truly shines. With all seats in place, the Traverse offers significantly more cargo volume than the Equinox. Folding down the rear seats expands that advantage even further, making the Traverse ideal for families who frequently haul large items.

Interior Space: Where Passengers Reign Supreme

The size differences extend beyond exterior dimensions. The Traverse offers three rows of seating, comfortably accommodating up to eight passengers, depending on the configuration. The Equinox, with its two rows, seats a maximum of five. The Traverse also provides more legroom and headroom in the second and third rows, making it a more comfortable choice for long road trips with a full car.

Performance and Fuel Economy: A Tale of Two Vehicles

The Equinox, being smaller and lighter, generally offers better fuel economy than the Traverse. The Traverse, with its larger engine and heavier frame, prioritizes power and towing capacity. Choosing between the two often comes down to balancing the need for fuel efficiency against the desire for more robust performance.

Price Point: Balancing Size and Budget

Unsurprisingly, the Traverse typically comes with a higher price tag than the Equinox, reflecting its larger size, increased features, and greater passenger and cargo capacity. Consider your budget carefully when deciding which SUV offers the best value for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 12 frequently asked questions to further clarify the differences between the Chevrolet Equinox and Traverse:

1. Can the Equinox tow as much as the Traverse? No. The Traverse generally has a higher towing capacity than the Equinox. This is due to its more powerful engine and stronger frame. The exact towing capacity varies by model year and configuration, but the Traverse consistently outperforms the Equinox in this area.

2. Is the Traverse difficult to park due to its size? While the Traverse is larger than the Equinox, making it slightly more challenging to maneuver in tight spaces, modern features like parking sensors, rearview cameras, and available surround-view cameras help mitigate this issue. Many drivers find the learning curve to be manageable.

3. Does the Equinox offer third-row seating? No, the Chevrolet Equinox is strictly a two-row SUV, seating a maximum of five passengers. If you require third-row seating, the Traverse is the clear choice.

4. Which SUV gets better gas mileage, the Equinox or the Traverse? Generally, the Equinox achieves better fuel economy than the Traverse. Its smaller engine and lighter weight contribute to improved MPG in both city and highway driving.

5. Is the Traverse a good choice for families with young children? Absolutely. The Traverse’s spacious interior, multiple seating configurations, and ample cargo room make it a fantastic option for families with young children. The third row can be particularly useful for carpooling or accommodating growing families.

6. Is the Equinox suitable for long road trips? Yes, the Equinox is comfortable and capable enough for long road trips, especially for smaller families or individuals. However, if you frequently travel with a full car and lots of luggage, the Traverse’s extra space might be more appealing.

7. Which SUV has more safety features? Both the Equinox and Traverse come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, stability control, and anti-lock brakes. Newer models often include advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Safety feature availability can vary by trim level and model year.

8. What are the main advantages of choosing the Equinox over the Traverse? The primary advantages of the Equinox are its lower price point, better fuel economy, and easier maneuverability in urban environments. It’s a great option for individuals or small families who don’t need the extra space of a three-row SUV.

9. How does the cargo space of the Equinox compare to other compact SUVs? The Equinox offers competitive cargo space within its class. While some competitors may offer slightly more or less, the Equinox provides a practical and versatile cargo area for everyday needs.

10. Does the Traverse come standard with all-wheel drive? All-wheel drive (AWD) is typically an available option on the Traverse, but it may not be standard on all trim levels. Check the specific configuration you’re considering to confirm AWD availability.

11. What are some common complaints about the Traverse? Some common critiques of the Traverse include its size making it hard to maneuver in certain situations, and some find the base engine lacking in power when fully loaded. However, overall it’s a solid vehicle for its class.

12. What are some common complaints about the Equinox? Some common criticisms of the Equinox focus on its relatively modest base engine and some find the interior styling underwhelming compared to some competitors.