The Chevrolet Equinox is on track to receive a mid-cycle update for the 2021 model year, and although we’ve seen a number of prototype models testing on public roads, we have yet to see the refreshed crossover in the buff. Now, we’re getting a preview of things to come thanks to an exclusive new rendering image.
Coming to us courtesy of GM Authority reader Brandon L. DeJean, the new rendering shows off the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox’s restyled front fascia. The look is sharper and more aggressive than the current model, and definitely takes some of its inspiration from the new Chevrolet Blazer, albeit without the overt aggression.
The updated fascia will also bring the latest ‘Nox in line with the rest of updated Chevrolet design language, and features drawn-back, two-tiered headlamp housings, as well as a multi-tiered grille section with black inserts and a black Bowtie badge.
Meanwhile, the profile of the new Equinox looks to go unchanged from that of the current model, and features the same window line and fenders. However, we’re liking the rendering’s black trim bits and dark wheel finish, which we think adds a lot to the fresh frontal styling and overall aesthetic.
In the rear, we expect the updated 2021 Chevrolet Equinox to feature new, horizontally oriented tail lamps, as spotted on previous prototype models.
The cabin may also get minor updates and new active safety features. However, the infotainment technology should carryover more or less unchanged from the current, pre-facelift model.
In terms of engine options, the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox will offer a number of turbocharged four-cylinders, including the 1.5L LYX and 2.0L LTG. Unfortunately, the 1.6L LH7 turbodiesel ‘four will remain unavailable following its discontinuation with the current 2020 model year. The GM nine-speed automatic transmission will be the only transmission on offer.
We’ve also heard rumors of a high-performance model variant, although evidence of that remains few and far between.
Subscribe to GM Authority for more Chevrolet Equinox news, Chevrolet news, and 24/7 GM news coverage.
Hat Tip: GM Authority reader Brandon L. DeJean
Comments
When will GM make a hybrid, or a plug in version? Since 2010 many present Equinox owners want an electrified version.
I’m hoping the Bolt EUV will fill that space, but I can’t tell if it will be big enough.
GM will not do hybrids going forward. EV or ICE only.
Hybrids are a waste of time. Which is why many companies have given up on them and went pure electric. Hybrids are just two complicated and are double trouble…not only do you have to change oil and transmission fluid, antifreeze! Pure electric is the way to go it’s simple low maintenance and it’s like plugging your cell phone in at night to charge and get up in the morning and go…oh and no oil changes! I am also betting that GM will like they always do be last to the fully electri party!
They need to get more power out of the 1.5T. 170 HP doesn’t cut it in something this heavy and is a lower figure than all competitors.
That is why the 2.0 T is offered for those wanting more power.
Premium Gas
The 2.0L will happily run regular gas all day long. You give up a few ponies to protect the engine from knock, but it still has tons of power and moves the Equinox/Terrain very well.
I understand that GM needs to keep their crossovers up to date as far as the design refresh goes , but they really need to start offering safety features on the lower trims that other vehicles in this class offer as standard equipment .
Just as an example , the new Acadia AT4 doesn’t even offer a heated steering wheel even on the highest trim level . For a trim only off roader it only makes sense to me to add this , like if going on a skiing trip driving in snow packed roads which is about as much off the beaten path this minivan will see .
You’re incorrect as the Acadia makes the heated steering wheel standard when the Denali trim line is ordered.
Agree. For example, “adaptive cruise control” is offered only on the “Premier” trim level. In contrast, Honda includes ADC as standard equipment on most models and trim levels. GM is lagging on this item on all of its brands.
What used to be a great compact SUV was shrunk, in 2018, to one that is too small. Please bring back the 2015 size, with all the storage holes everywhere.
GM wants you to buy the Blazer for $12,000 more
Room has to be made for a mid-size crossover between the Traverse and the Equinox. Thus, the Blazer was introduced. Chevy now has a full range of crossovers with the Trax at the subcompact end. Good move!
A couple of questions–When will the Nox hit the showroom, and will it have a stop/start delete feature?
A refresh after just two years.. is this yet another blunder by General Motors CEO Mary Barra?
I am on my 3rd Equinox, but I leased or bought other makes in between each of my earlier two because when my leases were up, my replacement would have been exactly like the Equinox I was turning in. If I am getting a new car I want it to be improved and updated. A refresh makes sense to me.
Toyota has been known for this type of strategy with some of their vehicles when it comes to a mid-life refresh prior to a major redesign within the 4 year window of their market lifespan, it’s one measure GM will also take in order to stay competitive in this now heavy dominated SUV and Crossover segment now that they have far less cars in their portfolio.
The current design is both bland and sublime. But it could use a little more cowbell.
It probably still has a plastic timing chain tensioner….
Until I see in writing that the design has changed I’ll look at GM again.
Bomboozeled customer,
Isn’t that the truth.
” They ” say the new ones are better, Ha, Ha.
But I know how you feel. I have 3 3.6 V6 with the GM known faulty parts, timing chain issue.
But I bet your glad GM has such a great customer support, Ha, Ha, Ha, Ha, now that’s a good one.
In my opinion.
Heard rumors of a high performance variant.
So GM will add some new wheels and different grill then ?
I got it, maybe GM will add the 3.6 v6 average GM blah FWD setup.
I think GM needs to define what ” High Performance ” means to them in the mid-sized lineup !!!!!!!!
Because the 2.0T ” Good Enough ” is already offered here.
High performance GM mid-sized vehicle, Ha, Ha, Ha, that’s like saying GM has customer support !!!!
They both just do not exist !!
What brand has a “High Performance” compact crossover? While the 2.0L Turbo is powerful for this compact crossover class, none of the major competitors – Honda CRV, Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, Nissan Rogue, Mazda CX-5 – has a “High Performancel” model either. Are you looking for 300-325HP. Move up to a mid-size.
Is 2.0T premium gas only, that would be an additional 40 cents a gallon. The 170HP is probably short on power for the equinox.
The 2.0L will run regular gas at a slightly de-tuned level. Still has lots of power.
After buying a2010 equinox,4cyl. I may never own another Chevrolet vehicle. It has a huge oil consumption issue. I bought with 90,000 miles and an very disappointed. Buyer beware!!!
I have a 2013 Chevy Sonic with the 1.4 Turbo with just over 200,000 miles. and it does not burn a drop of oil!