The Equinox is one of the most popular crossovers in America. The Chevrolet compact crossover model checks most boxes for people looking for a daily driver and a family hauler. In addition, it comes with a surprising number of standard features at an affordable price. The GMC Terrain is the obvious answer if you’re searching for an alternative. It’s GMC’s Equinox equivalent, as the two share a platform, among other things. However, did you know there are a few other Chevy Equinox alternatives that aren’t a GMC Terrain? Check out the Honda CR-V and the Volkswagen Tiguan.

Why do you need a Chevy Equinox alternative?

If you’re in the market for a compact crossover, the 2022 Chevy Equinox is a likely option. According to Edmunds, there are a few things to dislike about the Equinox. First, it’s got a smaller cargo area than most competitors, which is a massive drawback for a family vehicle.

Next, the LS base trim, which is very affordable, is special order only and could take some time to buy. Even more significant are the interior materials. Edmunds says the interior materials feel cheap and disappointing even in the higher, more costly trims.

Finally, the engine doesn’t feel like it delivers very much power. Every version of the Equinox uses a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. Car and Driver describe the engine’s unimpressive performance as “underpowered and frequently out of breath.”

The 2022 Honda CR-V is a great Equinox alternative

The Honda CR-V is another of the most popular choices from the same compact crossover segment. There are many reasons it’s an excellent Chevy Equinox alternative. As for price, these models are similar, as the CR-V LX base model starts at $28,045. That’s only about $1,000 more than the Equinox base model, and the rest of the lineup is similar.

Next, the Honda CR-V engine is the complete opposite of the Chevy offering. Edmunds says it offers “quick acceleration plus thrifty fuel economy.” Using the 190-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder, the CR-V feels surprisingly punchy. In addition, the higher Sport and Sport Touring trims come with a turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder combined with two electric motors for 204 hp.

Finally, the interior passenger and cargo space is plentiful. This is essential for any SUV or crossover; unfortunately, the Equinox isn’t up to the task. However, the CR-V is praised for its spaciousness.

“There’s 39.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats. You can also easily fold them down and increase capacity to 75.8 cubic feet. Small-item storage is also exceptional. The deep center console is configurable with a sliding tray that doubles as a cover for valuables,” Edmunds said.

Underrated? The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan gets it done

One of the more underrated and less-talked-about crossovers is the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan. Like the Honda CR-V, it excels in a few areas where the Chevy Equinox falls short. For example, Edmunds says the Tiguan has a roomy interior and cargo area. Since the Tiguan has three-row seating, it has just 12 cubic feet of space behind the last row. However, folding all seats down reveals 73.4 cu. ft. that rivals two-row crossovers (like the Honda CR-V).

Next, the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine feels muscular, even if it only makes 184 horsepower. Edmunds’ tests resulted in an 8.9-second 0-60 mph time. In addition to more power than the Chevy model, the Tiguan drives smoothly. “The steering has good accuracy and excellent weighting. The brakes, too, are light and easy to manage. Smooth stops can be made without a second thought,” the publication said.

Finally, the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan is an outstanding Chevy Equinox alternative because it has three rows of seats, Unlike most compact crossovers, including the Equinox and GMC Terrain. With this additional seating, the small, affordable Tiguan expands owner possibilities. Getting a three-row SUV for roughly $30,000 sounds like an excellent deal.

Chevy Equinox alternatives that aren’t a GMC Terrain

In conclusion, the 2022 Chevy Equinox is one of the most popular compact crossovers available. Unfortunately, like all models, it has its issues. Most of them are with interior spaciousness and engine power. In addition to other improvements, the 2022 Honda CR-V and Volkswagen Tiguan make up for what the Equinox lacks. That’s why they’re the perfect Equinox alternatives that aren’t a GMC Terrain.