J.D. Power’s Best Compact SUV For 2022 Is an Unlikely Choice
The world of compact SUVs is a competitive one, but J.D. Power has made its pick for the best one. The choice might be a surprise to some because it’s not from a luxury brand, and the manufacturer has had questionable quality in the past. Still, J.D. Power has named the 2022 Chevy Equinox as the highest-quality compact SUV for 2022.
Is the 2022 Chevy Equinox worth buying?
Ultimately, when it comes to your SUV, what you buy comes down to personal preference, but there is a lot to like about the 2022 Chevrolet Equinox. It starts at under $30,000, and it is pretty popular among consumers. Even though it likely isn’t going to win much cred among enthusiasts.
For 2022, Chevy has given its compact SUV a slight refresh. It receives a new RS model and does have an improved front-end. At the same time, there is now only one engine offered to the Equinox. Chevy has dropped the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, which did make this crossover a little more enjoyable to drive.
The 2022 Equinox has four trims
The new Chevy Equinox benefits from four unique trim levels. The latest trim is known as the RS, but do not expect this SUV to be any kind of performance vehicle. The RS trim is essentially just a more stylized version.
According to Car and Driver, the most value offered by the 2022 Equinox might be the LT trim. It has an MSRP of $27,400 and adds more standard features over the base LS model. The Equinox LT offers LED daytime running lights, a power driver’s seat, and a better gauge cluster.
The new Equinox can sit five passengers. It also offers up to 63.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. Behind the second row, you’ll get 29.9 cubic feet of storage.
What engine does the 2022 Chevy Equinox have?
Unfortunately, every new Equinox comes with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine. It makes just 170 horsepower and 203 pound-foot of torque. In the past, this compact SUV offered a more potent 2.0-liter turbo engine, which was better suited for a vehicle of this weight. The sole engine does feel a bit lethargic in terms of power.
Front-wheel drive does come standard on the new Equinox. But, if you live in a place with winter weather, you might want to option on all-wheel drive.
How does J.D. Power rank vehicles?
In terms of ranking, J.D. Power relies on surveyed owners of these SUVs. Because the best SUVs of 2022 are rated by actual owners, it gives a better idea of how models like the 2022 Chevy Equinox actually function in the real world.
According to J.D. Power, the Equinox is not the only Chevy to satisfy owners. The 2022 Tahoe was rated as the highest-quality large SUV. That should come as good news for General Motors, as in the past, quality has been a little bit questionable.
