The Battle of the Midsize SUVs: Which is Bigger, Equinox or Traverse?

When it comes to midsize SUVs, there are many options available in the market, each with its unique features, specifications, and advantages. Two of the most popular midsize SUVs are the Chevrolet Equinox and the Chevrolet Traverse. Both vehicles are manufactured by General Motors and are known for their reliability, comfort, and performance. However, one of the most common questions that car enthusiasts and potential buyers ask is: which is bigger, the Equinox or the Traverse?

Size Comparison: Equinox Vs Traverse

To determine which vehicle is bigger, let’s start by comparing their exterior dimensions.

The Chevrolet Equinox is a compact SUV that measures:

  • Length: 183.1 inches (4,652 mm)
  • Width: 72.6 inches (1,842 mm)
  • Height: 65.4 inches (1,661 mm)
  • Wheelbase: 107.3 inches (2,723 mm)

On the other hand, the Chevrolet Traverse is a midsize SUV that measures:

  • Length: 204.3 inches (5,190 mm)
  • Width: 78.6 inches (1,996 mm)
  • Height: 69.9 inches (1,775 mm)
  • Wheelbase: 118.9 inches (3,020 mm)

As you can see, the Traverse is significantly larger than the Equinox in terms of length, width, and wheelbase. However, the Equinox is slightly lower in height than the Traverse.

Interior Space: Equinox Vs Traverse

Now that we’ve compared the exterior dimensions, let’s take a look at the interior space of both vehicles.

The Chevrolet Equinox has a total passenger capacity of five people and offers:

  • Front headroom: 40 inches (1,016 mm)
  • Front legroom: 40.9 inches (1,039 mm)
  • Rear headroom: 39.2 inches (996 mm)
  • Rear legroom: 39.9 inches (1,014 mm)
  • Cargo capacity: 29.9 cubic feet (847 liters) behind the rear seats, 63.5 cubic feet (1,798 liters) with the rear seats folded

The Chevrolet Traverse, on the other hand, has a total passenger capacity of eight people and offers:

  • Front headroom: 41.3 inches (1,048 mm)
  • Front legroom: 41.0 inches (1,041 mm)
  • Second-row headroom: 39.4 inches (1,000 mm)
  • Second-row legroom: 39.7 inches (1,008 mm)
  • Third-row headroom: 38.2 inches (971 mm)
  • Third-row legroom: 33.5 inches (851 mm)
  • Cargo capacity: 23 cubic feet (652 liters) behind the third row, 57.8 cubic feet (1,643 liters) behind the second row, 98.2 cubic feet (2,783 liters) with both rows folded

As you can see, the Traverse offers more passenger space and cargo capacity than the Equinox, making it a better option for families or individuals who need to transport multiple passengers and heavy loads.

Seating Configurations: Equinox vs Traverse

Both vehicles offer comfortable seating options, but they differ in terms of configuration.

The Chevrolet Equinox offers a two-row seating configuration, with the option to fold the rear seats flat to create more cargo space.

The Chevrolet Traverse, on the other hand, offers a three-row seating configuration, with the option to fold both the second and third rows flat to create a massive cargo area.

Performance Comparison: Equinox Vs Traverse

Now that we’ve compared the size and interior space of both vehicles, let’s take a look at their performance.

The Chevrolet Equinox is available with three engine options:

  • 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 cylinder engine that produces 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque
  • 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 cylinder engine that produces 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque
  • 1.6-liter turbocharged diesel inline-4 cylinder engine that produces 137 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque

The Chevrolet Traverse, on the other hand, is available with two engine options:

  • 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 cylinder engine that produces 257 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque
  • 3.6-liter V6 cylinder engine that produces 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque

As you can see, the Traverse offers more powerful engine options than the Equinox, making it a better option for those who need to tow heavy loads or haul multiple passengers.

Towing Capacity: Equinox Vs Traverse

When it comes to towing capacity, the Chevrolet Traverse is the clear winner.

The Chevrolet Equinox has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds (1,588 kg), while the Chevrolet Traverse has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds (2,268 kg).

Safety Features: Equinox Vs Traverse

Both vehicles offer a range of safety features, including:

  • Forward Collision Alert
  • Automatic Emergency Braking
  • Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert
  • Rear Cross Traffic Alert
  • Rear Park Assist

However, the Chevrolet Traverse offers some additional safety features, including:

  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
  • Front Pedestrian Braking

Interior Features: Equinox Vs Traverse

Both vehicles offer a range of interior features, including:

  • Infotainment system with 8-inch touchscreen display
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
  • Wi-Fi hotspot capability
  • Heated and ventilated front seats
  • Power adjustable front seats

However, the Chevrolet Traverse offers some additional interior features, including:

  • Dual-panel sunroof
  • Heated second-row seats
  • Tri-zone automatic climate control

Price Comparison: Equinox Vs Traverse

Finally, let’s take a look at the pricing of both vehicles.

The Chevrolet Equinox starts at around $24,000 for the base model and goes up to around $35,000 for the top-of-the-line trim.

The Chevrolet Traverse starts at around $30,000 for the base model and goes up to around $45,000 for the top-of-the-line trim.

As you can see, the Traverse is more expensive than the Equinox, but it offers more passenger space, cargo capacity, and towing capacity.

Vehicle Length (inches) Width (inches) Height (inches) Wheelbase (inches)
Chevrolet Equinox 183.1 72.6 65.4 107.3
Chevrolet Traverse 204.3 78.6 69.9 118.9

In conclusion, while both the Chevrolet Equinox and the Chevrolet Traverse are excellent midsize SUVs, the Traverse is the clear winner when it comes to size, interior space, and towing capacity. However, the Equinox is a more affordable option with a lower starting price. Ultimately, the choice between the two vehicles depends on your specific needs and preferences.

What Is The Main Difference Between The Equinox And The Traverse?

The main difference between the Equinox and the Traverse is their size and classification. The Equinox is a midsize SUV, while the Traverse is a full-size SUV. This means that the Traverse is larger and has more passenger and cargo space than the Equinox. The Traverse also has a more powerful engine and is designed for families who need more space and towing capacity.

In contrast, the Equinox is a more compact and fuel-efficient option that is better suited for singles, couples, or small families who don’t need as much space. The Equinox is also more agile and easier to maneuver in tight spaces, making it a great option for city dwellers.

How Do The Exterior Dimensions Of The Equinox And Traverse Compare?

The exterior dimensions of the Equinox and Traverse differ significantly. The Equinox measures 183.1 inches in length, 72.6 inches in width, and 65.4 inches in height. In contrast, the Traverse measures 204.3 inches in length, 78.6 inches in width, and 69.9 inches in height. The Traverse is also longer in terms of wheelbase, measuring 118.9 inches compared to the Equinox’s 107.3 inches.

These size differences translate to more interior space and cargo room in the Traverse. The Traverse also has a larger grille, more aggressive front fascia, and a more angular design that sets it apart from the Equinox. Overall, the Traverse has a more rugged and imposing presence on the road, while the Equinox has a more streamlined and aerodynamic appearance.

How Does Interior Space Compare Between The Equinox And Traverse?

Interior space is another area where the Traverse has a significant advantage over the Equinox. The Traverse has more passenger room, with a maximum capacity of eight passengers compared to the Equinox’s five passengers. The Traverse also has more cargo room, with 23 cubic feet of space behind the third row, 57.8 cubic feet behind the second row, and 98.2 cubic feet with both rows folded.

In contrast, the Equinox has 29.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 63.5 cubic feet with the row folded. The Equinox also has less legroom and headroom in the front and rear seats compared to the Traverse. However, the Equinox makes up for this with more premium interior materials, ambient lighting, and advanced technology features like a touchscreen infotainment system.

How Do The Engine Options Compare Between The Equinox And Traverse?

The engine options differ significantly between the Equinox and Traverse. The Equinox has a more fuel-efficient 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that produces 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. There is also an optional 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that produces 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.

In contrast, the Traverse has a more powerful 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides more towing capacity and better acceleration, making it better suited for families who need to tow trailers or boats. The Traverse also has a more advanced all-wheel-drive system that provides better traction and control.

How Do The Safety Features Compare Between The Equinox And Traverse?

Both the Equinox and Traverse have similar safety features, including forward collision alert, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. However, the Traverse has more advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and a 360-degree camera system.

The Traverse also has higher safety ratings from organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Traverse has a perfect 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and is a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. The Equinox also has good safety ratings, but not quite as high as the Traverse.

How Do The Infotainment And Technology Features Compare Between The Equinox And Traverse?

The infotainment and technology features are similar between the Equinox and Traverse, with both offering advanced systems like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability. However, the Traverse has more premium features like a 120-volt power outlet, a hands-free power liftgate, and a rear-seat entertainment system.

The Traverse also has more advanced driver assistance features like a 360-degree camera system, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. The Equinox also has some advanced technology features like a touchscreen infotainment system, ambient lighting, and a driver information center.

Which SUV Is Better For Families?

The Traverse is generally better suited for families who need more space, seating, and cargo room. The Traverse has a more spacious interior, more cargo room, and a more powerful engine that provides better towing capacity. The Traverse also has more premium interior materials, more advanced safety features, and more technology features that families will appreciate.

However, the Equinox is still a great option for smaller families or families who prioritize fuel efficiency and maneuverability. The Equinox is more agile and easier to park, and it has better fuel economy ratings than the Traverse. Ultimately, the choice between the two SUVs will depend on the specific needs and priorities of the family.

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