The 2017 Chevrolet Equinox is a solid bet if you want a reasonably sized crossover SUV with plenty of backseat space. You can also upgrade to a powerful V6 engine, which is an unusual treat in this class. Let's see if this veteran player still has what it takes.
Pros Backseat has plenty of space and slides/reclines for added comfort Optional V6 engine provides quick acceleration Interior stays quiet at speed Rides smoothly on rough roads.
Cons Four-cylinder version feels sluggish and real-world mpg falls short of EPA ratings Less cargo space than some rivals Quality of interior materials leaves something to be desired Bluetooth audio isn't offered on L or LS.
The 2017 Chevrolet Equinox is a solid compact crossover SUV. What it lacks in advanced powertrains, it makes up for in available tech. The Chevrolet Equinox has struck the right chord for many compact crossover buyers. It offers a range of powertrains, including front- or all-wheel drive; it can be fuel efficient; and it's relatively large.
Pros Inline-4 is frugal Space is configurable for cargo or people Plenty of power in V-6 Exterior style has been improved Relatively good tech
Cons No premium audio to speak of Rear visibility is a challenge Safety marks not quite top tier
The 2018 Chevrolet Equinox ranks 5 out of 18 Compact SUVs. The Chevrolet Equinox was redesigned for the 2018 model year and sees some admirable improvements over the outgoing generation. It has a quality interior, plenty of standard features, and a good amount of cargo and passenger space. It rides and drives confidently but can be slow to get up to speed.
Pros Plenty of standard features Quality interior Stable handling
Cons Sluggish transmission
After a redesign just last year, the Mitsubishi Outlander gets a few more updates for 2017. The previously optional 6.1-inch touchscreen and rearview camera are now standard. New optional features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic high beams, a 360-degree camera system and a heated steering wheel. Mitsubishi has also eliminated its optional navigation system from the options list. Finally, all-wheel drive is now available on the base ES trim.
Pros Generous list of standard features Standard three-row seating.
Cons Slow acceleration with the base four-cylinder Some desirable features are available only on pricey and thirsty GT Limited Mitsubishi dealer network.
The 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander provides functional family appeal for a reasonable price, but the powertrains are weak, the third-row seat space is tiny, and the infotainment features are behind the times.
Pros Pleasant ride Available active safety features Third-row seat can be used in a pinch Advanced all-wheel-drive system available Quiet cabin
Cons V-6 model too expensive Bland, unassuming looks Infotainment behind the curve Tiny third row
The 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander ranks 17 out of 18 Compact SUVs. The 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander has a high-quality interior and confidence-inspiring safety scores. It's also one of few compact SUVs that comes with a third row of seats, but they're too small for adults. It all goes downhill from there: dull performance, a rough ride, a hard-to-use infotainment system, and subpar predicted reliability.
Pros Quiet cabin High-quality interior materials Standard third-row seating
Cons Poor reliability rating Underpowered engine Rough ride Few standard features
