2020 Chevrolet Equinox vs 2021 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox, especially in its Premier trim, presented a clean and appealing design that avoided the typical SUV styling cues. It featured a more powerful engine, all-wheel drive, and a panoramic sunroof, with a price tag of $40,040, including destination charges. However, Chevrolet often included rebates and incentives, reducing the cost significantly. The Equinox Premier stood out with its 19-inch wheels, gray contrast cladding, and chrome detailing, signaling its top-tier status. Inside, the cabin was outfitted with Jet Black and Brandy leather, offering a high-contrast, upscale look, though the presence of hard plastics detracted from the overall feel of luxury.

In contrast, the 2021 Land Rover Range Rover exuded luxury and sophistication, with a starting price of $92,000. The HSE Westminster special edition, priced at $106,715, featured a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine and standard paint, wheels, and leather. The Range Rover's design, with its hallmark cues and timeless look, was complemented by a luxurious Ivory-color interior. Despite its age, the Range Rover maintained a modern appeal, though its InControl Touch Pro Duo infotainment system was less intuitive than newer models. The cabin offered a mid-century modern ambiance, with high-quality materials and a focus on comfort.

The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox offered two engine options: a standard 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with 170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque, and an optional 2.0-liter turbo engine with 252 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The latter provided better performance and a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The Equinox's ride was firm and connected, with some road and wind noise. The Premier's 19-inch wheels enhanced its athletic feel on winding roads, while the LS's smaller wheels improved maneuverability in urban settings. Fuel economy varied, with the 2.0-liter engine averaging 22.1 mpg, slightly below the EPA rating.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover offered a range of powertrains, including a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine with 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. The Range Rover's 4WD system and Terrain Response 2 traction control ensured off-road capability, though the test vehicle was not pushed to its limits. The adaptive air suspension provided a smooth ride, and the SUV's power delivery was seamless. However, the steering was slow, and the vehicle's weight and tall center of gravity affected handling on winding roads. The Range Rover averaged 18.5 mpg, slightly below the EPA's combined rating.

The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox offered a comfortable interior with options for cloth or leather upholstery. The Premier trim included heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a sliding rear seat for flexible passenger and cargo space. Rear legroom was generous, and the cargo volume measured 29.9 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expanding to 63.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. The cabin featured ample storage, including a large center console bin and various cubbies.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured an air suspension with a kneel mode for easier access. The front seats were comfortable and wrapped in quality leather, but the second row lacked thigh support and adjustability. Despite this, the rear seat offered luxury features like quad-zone climate control and heated and ventilated seats. Storage space was limited, with dual glove compartments and a small refrigerated bin. Cargo volume was 25 cubic feet, expanding to 59.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. A suspension kneel function aided loading.

The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox came with various infotainment systems, all featuring touchscreen displays, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. Upgrades included a high-definition display, navigation, and a Bose sound system. The technology was intuitive and easy to use, with options for wireless charging and rear-seat entertainment.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover's technology was rendered through three digital displays, offering numerous features and functions. The InControl Touch Pro Duo system was not entirely intuitive, and using the touchscreens while driving was distracting. The Range Rover included a head-up display, though it was not visible with polarized sunglasses. The Activity Key wristband and iGuide smartphone app were notable features, enhancing convenience and usability.

The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox featured Chevy Safety Assist, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and more. It also offered a reversing camera, Teen Driver technology, and optional upgrades like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. The Equinox earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover included standard safety features like forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assistance. Optional packages added adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera. The HSE Westminster Edition included several safety packages, though the adaptive cruise control was slow to respond in certain situations.