2020 Chevrolet Equinox

You get eight trim choices on the 2020 Chevrolet Equinox: L, LS, 1LT, 2LT, 3LT, 1LZ, 2LZ, and 3LZ. The base model and the 3LZ and 3LT come only in front-wheel drive, but all the other trims have optional all-wheel drive. The base engines get 28mpg for front-wheel drive and 27mpg for all-wheel-drive, but the upgraded engines available on some of the upper trims get 32mpg. The base model is available in just two exterior colors, but that goes up to six in the LS and 10 or 11 in the LT and LZ models, depending on which you choose. Upper trims have a 9-speed automatic transmission, while lower trims have a 6-speed. All trims can seat five, and, naturally, the higher the trim, the more optional security and comfort features become standard.

The base engine is a 170hp, 1.5-liter gas engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission. This same engine is what you'll get on the LS, 1LT, and 1LZ. The 2LT and 2LZ have a 252 hp, 2.0-liter premium engine, while the 3LT and 3LZ have a 137hp diesel.

If you're going with the base engine, you'll find the Equinox performs best on off-road and city situations but is a little sluggish on the highway. The 2.0-liter engine is perfectly suited for carrying the vehicle's weight for hours and hours at speed, however. Shifting on all engines is effortless and seamless, and the vehicle is always working to help you save on fuel. Wherever you take it, you'll find this vehicle easy to handle, fun to drive, with responsive and accurate steering.

The interior of the Equinox has plenty of space for front and back passengers (and all their stuff). There are plenty of cupholders, enough room in the back for eight carry-on suitcases, and a very large center-console storage area. Optional upgrades include a power liftgate, moonroof, heated steering wheel, heated front seats, wireless charging, dual-zone air conditioning, and more. If you go up to a higher trim, you can get a lot of extra features, but the base Equinox is deliberately priced to be family-friendly and offer the performance and fuel economy you need rather than lots of bells and whistles. Whichever trim you get, connect easily to your Apple or Android device, use Bluetooth for audio streaming, and work with Chevrolet's MyLink interface for the best experience. 4G LTE Wi-Fi on board is a nice touch.

The NHTSA gives the Equinox a five-star rating, and the vehicle comes with a bevy of driver-assistance features that will make you feel more comfortable about putting your kids inside. The child-safety seat accommodations are easy to use, and as the driver, you'll appreciate the visibility. Key safety features include: • Automated emergency braking • Automatic high-beams • Adaptive cruise control • Lane-keeping assist • Lane-departure warning • Blind-spot warning • Rear cross-traffic alert • 360-degree camera view