The 2022 Chevy Equinox is losing a trim level, bumping up the starting MSRP. Higher trim levels will be priced lower than previous model years. New features are centered around updating Equinox’s look and increasing the SUV’s safety. Which package is most worth it at this new pricing?

The 2022 Chevy Equinox will drop it’s base time level

Chevy has decided to skip its low-cost L model Equinox for the 2022 model year. This change means the base price for the compact SUV will start higher than they for previous releases. These updates were planned for the 2021 edition. The volatile conditions of the auto industry pushed the redesign back to the 2022 model.

The 2022 Equinox has been completely overhauled with a new focus on safety and style. It received an NHTSA safety award when equipped with HID headlamps. The redesigned Equinox earned an overall 5-star safety rating from the organization.

Exterior updates include contemporized fascias to give the SUV a modern look. A more aggressive gloss black grille gives it a sportier feel. Black badging, side rails, and bowties define the overall look of the new Equinox. Inside red stitching contrasts with and compliments the black leather interior.

Which trim current level is most worth the price?

Every trim level of the 2022 Chevy Equinox comes equipped with a standard 1.5-L turbo engine. Previous years offered a more powerful 2.0-L version which the manufacturer has also dropped. This leaner, sportier Equinox hopes to lure buyers from rivals like the RAV4 or CR-V with a fresh look and enhanced features.

The LT trim level has a lot to offer. An eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat gives the interior an expensive feel. The optional Confidence and Convenience package includes heated seats, blind-spot monitoring, and dual-zone climate control. Remote start, a power liftgate, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel add to the appeal. This package is the best balance of price and features.

The least-expensive 2022 Equinox is now the LS model, which starts at $26,995. This represents a $600 savings from the 2021 model but a $2,000 increase from the 2021 base model. Trim packages have been increasing in price. The Equinox breaks this trend, with each trim level decreasing in price by $500 or more when compared to the 2021 model.

That’s not all that’s changed for 2022

If safety was the focus of the 2022 Chevy equinox redesign, that goal was met. The 2022 model comes equipped with a laundry list of advanced safety features. Automatic emergency braking, front collision alert, rear vision cameras, and more make it easier for drivers to be aware of their surroundings.

One of the most exciting new features is the Teen Driver program. This allows parents to customize vehicle settings and is tied to their teen’s key fob. It can limit some features from use and prevent certain safety systems from being deactivated. Parents will receive an in-vehicle report card that gives them information on their children’s driving habits.

Tire fill alert allows drivers to react to tire pressure issues before rim damage occurs. Following distance, indicators help drivers gauge braking times in dense traffic and can help avoid rear collisions. All of these features and more contribute to Equinox’s high safety rating.