If you are in the market for a compact crossover that isn’t too small, you should be comparing the 2020 Chevy Equinox vs 2020 Honda CR-V. These two models offer a wide range of features that are ideal for small families. However, you don’t have to have children in order to get the most use out of these vehicles. Artists and musicians will love the space they offer for traveling with large art pieces or instruments. Dog lovers will enjoy loading up the back with their four-legged friends and heading to the park. No matter what walk of life you come from, either of these sport utility models will be perfect for you.
Power and Performance
When it comes to SUVs, performance can be a tricky topic. Most people want an engine that is powerful enough to handle a bit of light off-roading, but not too powerful that it drinks gasoline like a wildfire.
The 2020 Chevy Equinox has two engine options to pick from. The first is a turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder that produces 170 hp and 203 lb-ft of torque. Coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission, it has an impressive fuel economy set at 28 mpg combined (26 city/31 highway). The second option is a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that generates 252 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission that includes a Tow/Haul mode, it can pull up to 3,500 pounds. Every 2020 Equinox comes standard with front-wheel drive, but you can upgrade to AWD on any of the trims except the base model.
Under the hood of the 2020 Honda CR-V rests a turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that pushes out 190 hp and 179 lb-ft of torque. Equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with sport mode, most models feature front-wheel-drive. All-wheel-drive is optional except on the Touring trim level where it is standard. The CR-V has a fuel economy set at 30 mpg combined (28 city/34 highway), and it can only tow up to 1,500 pounds. That is significantly lower than the Equinox.
Safety Features
Many people are under the impression that in order to get the top-of-the-line safety features, you need to get the most expensive trim level available. While this might be true for many brands, this simply isn’t the case for the Chevy Equinox. That’s because the base L model is well-equipped with state-of-the-art safety systems that work in unison to help prevent accidents on the road. These functions include automatic high-beams for optimal visibility, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, emergency braking, lane departure warning, and a rearview camera to assist with backing out of tight spaces and parallel parking on the street. Stepping up to the LS version will add Teen Driver Technology for your young drivers in the family. It will provide you with a report card to monitor their progress and driving habits. It also disables the audio system if the seatbelt is not secured. Blindspot monitoring is included in LT models and above, and a 360-degree parking camera system is optional on the top-tier Premier model.
The 2020 Honda CR-V is also equipped with some nice safety features, which is why we chose this model to go head-to-head against the Equinox. The base LX model comes with the Honda Sensing safety suite that includes a collision mitigation braking system, a road departure mitigation system, adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, and lane-keeping assist. This package is not as comprehensive as the Equinox, but it’s pretty impressive for a base model.
Comfort and Convenience
With four unique trim levels, the 2020 Chevy Equinox has a wide range of comfort and convenience features. The L includes keyless entry and ignition to make it easier to get your mornings started. It also features a height-adjustable driver’s seat for optimized comfort and a rear seat release lever for easy access to the back. The LT model adds power-adjustability to the driver’s seat and a heating element to both front seats for comfort during the bitter winter months. The top-tier Premier version covers those heated seats in subtle leather upholstery for the ultimate luxurious cabin experience.
The Honda CR-V is also available in four trims. The first LX trim also features a height-adjustable driver’s seat and keyless entry. The EX model adds heated front seats, push-button start, and dual-zone climate control. Included on the EX-L are comfort and convenience features such as leather-trim on the heated front seats as well as leather wrappings on the shift knob and steering wheel. Lastly, the Touring model gets ambient lighting throughout the cabin and a heated steering wheel to keep your hands cozy.
Tech Features
Not having the right advanced tech features can be a dealbreaker for some people. That’s why the well-appointed Equinox boasts a variety of systems to make your drive more intriguing. The L includes a 7-inch touchscreen that displays the infotainment interface. This system operates with Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto for seamless audio integration. You can listen to your personalized playlist via the 6-speaker stereo, and this model even has its very own 4G LTE Wifi hotspot. You can stay connected anywhere you go. Jumping up to the LT model will add satellite radio for more music options. The final Premier version gets a wireless charging pad to recharge your mobile device quickly, and the stereo can be upgraded to a premium Bose system.
On the Honda CR-V, the base LX comes with a 5-inch LCD screen that displays the infotainment interface. This system functions with Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio integration. It does not have compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, it is compatible with Pandora Radio, and you can listen to music through the 4-speaker stereo. Next is the EX. This model gets several tech upgrades, including a larger 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM Radio, HD Radio, and all of the Bluetooth functions. The sound system has also been upgraded to 6-speakers. The EX-L adds two extra speakers for optimized sound quality. Finally, the Touring model includes voice-recognition navigation with Honda HD Digital Traffic. This will ensure that you are always on the quickest route to your destination. You can avoid traffic jams and rush hour with the help of this handy system. This model also comes with a wireless charging pad for keeping your mobile device fully powered.
Choosing the Right Vehicle
Only you can decide which compact crossover is right for your lifestyle. Both the 2020 Chevy Equinox and the 2020 Honda CR-V are highly competitive models with loads of advanced features to keep you entertained and safe during every journey you take. Whether you are heading off on a road trip adventure or simply going to the grocery store, you will be more than thrilled inside either vehicle.
