The 2016 Chevrolet Equinox is a compact SUV with a price range of $15,150 to $24,440. It’s more affordable than most of its competitors while still offering good longevity and a comfortable ride.
2016 Chevrolet Equinox: Quick Overview
- New features for the 2016 model include a new front grille, updated wheel designs, additional safety technology, and a standard touchscreen infotainment system.
- Reliability ratings are significantly above average according to J.D. Power, with fewer complaints than older models.
- Two engines are available. The four-cylinder is underpowered for an SUV its size and the V6 is quick.
- Fuel efficiency is above average, tying for 2nd place out of 26 compact SUVs. It gets a combined rating of up to 26 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are good for its class, getting a 4-star rating in government crash tests. It also earns an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick award.
- The 2016 Equinox ranks near the middle of the compact SUV class based on owner reviews. Overall, it’s a good SUV offering above-average comfort and reliability at a budget-friendly price point.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox Have?
The 2016 Chevy Equinox has fewer problems compared to the 2015 model year and an average number of complaints compared to other compact SUVs. The 2016 Chevrolet Equinox has only one recall, but big problem with faulty windshield wipers.
Engine problems are the most common complaint, with the rear main seal failing. The failure is an expensive problem to fix, costing about $2,000. Chevrolet addresses the issue with a technical service bulletin. It’s a good idea to check if the service has been done on any used Equinox you are looking at.
Wiper blade failures are another problem owners have reported. It’s usually caused by a failed wiper motor and commonly happens around 100,000 miles. Replacing the motor fixes the issue.
Electrical problems leading to dead batteries are also mentioned. It’s commonly caused by a parasitic draw with the vehicle’s electrical system, which drains the battery while it’s parked.
There’s only 1 recall affecting the 2016 Equinox, fewer than its competitors. It’s a simple recall for an incorrect tire information label, affecting only 17 vehicles.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2016 Chevy Equinox is priced average for a compact SUV, with a range of $15,150 to $24,440 depending on the mileage and model. When new, it had a retail price of $22,600 to $31,690. In the current market, the Equinox depreciates at an average rate for its class, losing about 40% of its value in the first 5 years.
- L is the base model with basic cloth seating, a 7-inch infotainment system, keyless entry, and 17-inch wheels.
- LS is above it and has premium cloth seating, all-weather floor mats, and satellite radio.
- LT is a step up from and comes with an upgraded touchscreen with voice recognition, steering-wheel controls, LED lights, and heated exterior mirrors.
- LTZ is the flagship model with leather seating, heated front seats, chrome accents, and 18-inch wheels.
How Long Will the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox Last?
The 2016 Chevy Equinox will last over 200,000 miles when properly cared for, average for its class. Repair costs are average as well, with Repair Pal estimating them to be $420 per year.
I have not had any problems at all. It is reliable and it gets around in most all weather unless you have 20 inches of snow.
I have never received any issues with my equinox over the last 3 years. With cars like the SUV there are more airbags located in the car which caused more blind spots.
No problems and have not needed to take in for any recalls. As I mentioned before very dependable and rides nice.
I haven't had any problems with my vehicle. Other than getting new tires it has been a very reliable vehicle.
No problems so far all I have done so far is flush transmission change the tires and rotate the tires.
Very reliable. So far we have had no problems with the Chevrolet equinox. The air cools the car quickly and in the winter the car heats up quickly.
I have not had any issues or problems with my equinox. My vehicle has never had a breakdown or any failures of any kind or recalls that I know of.
It is very reliable. I have never had problems with it. The only thing I had to do is finally get a new set of tires. The original ones lasted for 73,000 miles.
Chevrolet Equinox Road Test Video
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Technology in the 2016 Equinox is good for its price, offering more than other compact SUVs.
- Base technology includes a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, and 6-speakers.
- Upgraded technology includes navigation, voice recognition, smartphone app integration, and an improved 8-speaker Pioneer stereo system.
- For safety, the Equinox has antilock brakes, traction and stability control, OnStar, and a backup camera. Optional upgrades include rear cross-traffic and blind zone monitoring, as well as forward collision alert and a lane departure warning system.
What Engine Options are Available?
The 2016 Chevrolet Equinox engines include mediocre 2.4L and slightly less underwhelming 3.6L. The upgraded engine takes it from 0 to 60 in 6.6 seconds, quicker than average for its class. The Equinox also has a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds with the four-cylinder, and increases to 3,500 pounds with the V6.
- The base engine is a 2.4L four-cylinder with 182 horsepower.
- An upgraded 3.6L V6 is available producing 301 horsepower.
What Colors Options are Available?
How Big is the Equinox?
The Equinox is a compact SUV similar in size to its competitors, but Chevy focuses heavily on passenger comfort. The cabin feels airy and roomy. There’s ample rear legroom with the sliding second row of seats. Cargo space is lower than average, with 31.5 cu. ft. of room behind the second row of seats, increasing to 63.7 cu. ft. when folded flat. It’s enough room to fit 4 suitcases, but competitors have more space.
How Does the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox Compare to Other SUVs?
Based on owner reviews, the 2016 Chevy Equinox ranks 9th out of 26 compact SUVs on the market. At the top of the lineup is the Mini Countryman, which is slightly more expensive than the Equinox. The Mini is less powerful, and smaller than the Chevy with less cargo space and passenger room. Where the Mini wins out is with more unique styling, and better handling on the road with a sportier suspension. The Equinox is a better choice for a compact daily-driver, but the Mini is more fun to drive. Choosing between the two comes down to what you’re looking for in an SUV.
A close competitor is the Honda CR-V, which is also more expensive than the Chevy. Where the Honda wins out is with a longer estimated lifespan and more cargo space. The Chevy has a more comfortable suspension, and a more powerful optional V6 engine, missing on the Honda. Interior quality is similar between the two SUVs. Overall, the CR-V is a better choice, simply because it has fewer mechanical problems.
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox a Good SUV?
Based on our research of 16 automotive and government websites and 937 owner reviews, we conclude the 2016 Equinox is a good SUV. It has serious improvements over earlier years, with significantly less problems. Positives include a comfortable cabin and excellent safety technology for its class. Where it falls short is with less cargo space than its competitors and an underpowered base engine. Overall, the Equinox is worth taking a look at if you’re on a budget, since it’s more affordable than other SUVs.