Which Chevy SUV Is for You: The Equinox or Trailblazer?

May 31st, 2024 by

A red 2024 Chevy Equinox RS seen from a low angle.

Whether you’re commuting to work or taking the family on a weekend getaway, a Chevy SUV is sure to enhance your drive. There’s an extensive selection in the iconic manufacturer’s lineup, so if you’re a Kentucky driver looking for a Chevy Equinox for sale near Louisville or considering the Chevy Trailblazer, you’ll find both here at Dan Cummins Chevrolet Buick of Paris. Both come with a variety of great features, but which one is best for you when it comes to your travels in The Derby City and beyond? Let’s take a closer look at both models and see which SUV best fits your driving needs.

The Chevy Equinox

The 2024 Chevy Equinox is everywhere, and for good reason. This compact SUV handles exceptionally well on and off the road. It is the perfect size for individuals, couples, or small families, with an affordable MSRP of $26,600[a] There are multiple customization options for advanced features and comfort, as well as a simplified lineup of trim levels to choose from (LS, LT, RS, and Premier). It even has special editions, like the Midnight, Sport, and Redline editions, which offer unique appearance, interior design, and features. (If you’re all about that nightlife, we suggest the Midnight Edition for style and turning heads).

The standard 1.5L turbocharged I-4 engine produces 175 hp and 203 lb-ft of torque for a quiet ride and smooth handling. It is a great car to maneuver around tight spaces within Louisville and has an aerodynamic design to improve wind resistance. With a decent combined fuel economy of 28 MPG (26 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway), this car will seem like nothing could ever stop it. Not to mention, it retains some muscle, though it is a smaller SUV, with a maximum 1,500-lb towing capacity. The two available drivetrains, FWD and AWD, are also there to help with customization and finding practical performance and durability that’s right for you.

The best part about owning this SUV is the comprehensive safety that comes with it. This 2023 model was even awarded by J.D. Power for its dependability in the compact SUV segment, as well as a 5-star overall score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). With the Equinox, you know that it has a celebrated history with many happy drivers who have been protected repeatedly on the road. Feel confident on every journey, knowing that the esteemed Equinox has your back.

A yellow 2024 Chevy Trailblazer ACTIV parked on a beach.

The Chevy Trailblazer

The 2024 Trailblazer is a subcompact SUV—a good size for individuals, small families, or couples—perfect for those looking for the SUV vehicle type and size on a budget (with an MSRP of $23,100)[a] Unlike the Equinox, the Trailblazer has customization options for power and performance with two engines: the 1.2L EcoTec turbocharged I-3 engine and the 1.3L EcoTec turbocharged I-3 engine. The standard offers 137 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque, while the upgraded engine gives you 155 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque, which also provides exceptional fuel economy with a combined fuel economy of 31 MPG (29 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway).

While it only has a 1,000 lb towing capacity, keep in mind that this is a subcompact SUV compared to Equinox’s compact size and does not use the same engine or transmission for the extra benefit of power and performance. It also has the ability to customize the drivetrain with FWD or AWD, depending on your preference. This SUV even has a similar and simplified lineup for its trim options that includes the LS, LT, RS, and ACTIV. This SUV is capable and powerful in a smaller size and provides comfort, convenience, and practical and advanced features (depending on trim level).

The Chevy Trailblazer has also earned rewards and praises for its safety and ability to detect objects on the road, preventing accidents or worse. While the 2024 model hasn’t received anything (as far as right now), there have been previous awards to consider when shopping for the Trailblazer. In 2023, the Trailblazer received an overall 5-star score from the NHTSA, which can help lower insurance costs, as well as a 2022 Top Pick Safety+ title awarded by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Better Technology and Safety

They are very similar in terms of technology features and what they offer to the family or passengers. Both SUVs come with the standard Chevy Safety Assist, which includes Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Following Distance Indicator, and everything you would immediately need to drive with more confidence. However, when it comes to checking out the connection, entertainment, and information displays, you may find that the Equinox lacks in size compared to the Trailblazer’s touchscreen. The Equinox has a standard 7-inch display, and even with higher trim options, the Equinox only gets an extra inch on its touchscreen. However, the Trailblazer takes the cake with an exceptional 11-inch touchscreen for your convenience and easier visibility needs.

A family loading camping gear into the back of a 2024 Chevy Equinox Premier for sale near Louisville.

Cargo Space

With so much to love about the 2024 Chevy Equinox, it doesn’t stop at impressive features, intuitive technology, or head-turning design. In fact, one of the main benefits of Equinox is the admirable cargo hold and space it offers. When you’re going on trips with the whole family, whether that’s to school or the local grocery store, there is a standard 29.9 cu.ft. of cargo room for groceries, school projects, and even luggage.

However, there are those days when you need to bring a new carpet to the apartment or take a new piece of furniture home to decorate the place, and that’s where your transportation comes into place. The big question is, will it fit? With the Equinox, when you fold down the second row, you’ll find a max total of 63.9 cu.ft. of cargo hold space. That is enough to get your needs across the city and back or wherever you’re looking to transport those bigger items.

The 2024 Chevy Trailblazer is looking to stay ahead of its sibling but remember that this is a subcompact SUV compared to the Equniox’s compact size. In other words, it makes sense as to what we’re about to say; the Trailblazer is a great vehicle with an even greater space for cargo hold. When putting these two head-to-head, the Trailblazer only sacrifices slight space with a standard 25.3 cu.ft. of room, as well as when the second row is folded to offer a max of 54.4 cu.ft. of space. It is still capable of holding many items of various sizes, making this a good choice for families, individuals, or those new drivers in your family.

The Equinox vs Trailblazer

Which SUV is right for you? After all, that is the ultimate question, right? Unfortunately, there is no true winner, especially when comparing a Chevy vehicle to another Chevy vehicle. Both SUVs have standard Chevy Safety Assist features, good power and performance, and similar cargo hold space. They’re also very similar in terms of technology features and towing capabilities. If you’re looking for a practical ride with some capabilities, convenient attributes, and affordable price, then the 2024 Chevy Trailblazer may be exactly what you’re searching for. However, the 2024 Chevy Equinox offers a bit more space, more muscle, and better power. So, the extra money may afford you an overall top-notch ride. Visit us today at Dan Cummins Chevrolet Buick of Paris to find the right SUV for you.


[a] MSRP may change without notice. See dealer for complete details.