Comparison: 2017 Equinox vs. Honda CR-V
Two all-new compact crossovers duke it out for top family hauler honors.
To paraphrase The Detroit News’ Henry Payne, bigger isn’t always better, and even though consumers have given up more fuel-efficient hatchbacks and wagons for bulky crossovers, Chevrolet is looking to curb the bloat prevalent in newer cars. It seems that new cars get larger every year, but for 2017, Chevrolet has downsized their Equinox crossover.
The new Equinox is four inches shorter than the outgoing model, with a smaller engine. The crossover has also lost about 400 pounds compared to the previous model. This puts it on par with Honda’s CR-V, a perennially popular small family hauler, and one of the original car-based “cute utes” that – along with higher gas prices – sated America’s appetite for small crossovers.
The CR-V is new too, however, sharing underpinnings as it always has with the Civic. However, may are claiming that the newest Civic is the best one yet from a handling standpoint. Thankfully, Chevrolet cut all the right corners to make the Equinox a corner-carver.
According to Henry Payne, the new Equinox carves corners with the best of them – CR-V included. While the Honda currently has the advantage in power and fuel economy, Chevrolet has a 252 horsepower 2.0 liter turbo engine waiting in the wings, expecting to bow later this year.
While the new Equinox is more expensive than the Honda CR-V, it’s justified by the additional tech and refinement both inside and out. A twin pack clutch system that allows for a superior front/rear torque split will inspire confidence during winter driving, while interior gadgets like optional heated rear seats and a surround-view monitor make the drive more comfortable.
While Honda may have a slight edge in overall ergonomics, the Chevrolet is said to be constructed of nicer materials and have overall better fit and finish. That alone is reason enough to give the Equinox a second look – when was the last time an American car emerged from that particular battle victorious?
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Photos: The Detroit News
