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Bold New Look for the Equinox
The 2027 Chevrolet Equinox RS arrives with a fresh, sport‑tuned appearance that sets it apart from the standard midsize SUV. A fully gloss black grille, a distinctive red RS emblem, and optional 20‑inch wheels give the vehicle a more aggressive stance. The glossy black accents wrap around the side mirrors, roof rails, and door trim, while a panoramic sunroof adds a touch of luxury to the cabin. The RS trim also features a black lower body kit that accentuates the vehicle’s muscular profile.
Inside the Cabin: Comfort Meets Style
Inside, the RS trim features Evoteex synthetic leather seats with perforated surfaces and red stitching that echo the exterior accents. The seats are fully powered with two‑way lumbar support, and the rear seats offer a generous 60/40 split‑folding configuration that can accommodate three large Costco‑sized bags or a spare tire. The cabin also includes a powered liftgate, LED tail lights, a reverse camera with rear parking sensors, and a panoramic sunroof that floods the interior with natural light.
"So far, the Equinox is just a pleasure to drive." – Ty
Powertrain and Performance
The heart of the RS is a 1.5‑liter turbocharged inline‑four that delivers 175 horsepower and 203 pound‑feet of torque. Coupled with an 8‑speed automatic transmission, the engine is available in both front‑wheel drive and all‑wheel drive configurations. During a test acceleration run on a quiet industrial park route, the vehicle showed strong mid‑range power, with the engine performing best between 1,500 and 2,000 RPM. The turbocharged unit also provides a smooth, linear throttle response that feels natural for everyday driving.
In the acceleration test, the RS accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in a time that matched the manufacturer’s claim, demonstrating that the 175‑horsepower output is sufficient for a midsize SUV. The engine’s torque curve favors lower RPMs, so the driver found that a 75‑percent throttle application yielded the most responsive performance, rather than full throttle.
The 8‑speed automatic replaces the previous CVT that was standard on front‑wheel‑drive models, offering a more engaging shift pattern and improved fuel efficiency.
Handling, Suspension, and Road Feel
On a quiet industrial park route, the Equinox handled with a light, responsive steering feel. The steering remains light and precise, with no noticeable torque steer, making the vehicle easy to maneuver in tight city streets. The suspension, tuned for comfort rather than sportiness, absorbed bumps from uneven roads and large 20‑inch wheels with ease. Road noise remained low, especially on higher speeds, and the vehicle felt well‑planted on the pavement. The driver praised the seat comfort, noting that the new design offers a softer, more relaxed feel compared to previous generations.
The vehicle’s 20‑inch wheels are fitted with 235/50 tires, which provide a good balance between grip and ride quality. The large wheels also add to the vehicle’s visual presence without compromising the smoothness of the ride. The RS trim includes a powered liftgate that opens with a single touch, and the rear cargo area can hold a full set of golf clubs or a large cooler.
Driving Modes and Technology
The Equinox offers several driving modes, including normal, off‑road, and snow/ice. While the RS trim does not include a dedicated sport mode, the driver noted that the vehicle’s handling is stable and predictable across all conditions. The infotainment system includes a large touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium sound system, all of which contribute to a modern, connected driving experience.
The lack of a sport mode is noted, but the RS’s overall performance remains solid, especially in everyday driving scenarios.
Key Takeaways
The 2027 Equinox RS blends bold styling, upscale interior touches, and a capable turbocharged powertrain into a practical midsize SUV. Its 8‑speed automatic and all‑wheel drive options provide a smooth, responsive drive, while the cabin’s comfort features make it a strong contender for daily use. For buyers looking for a well‑rounded package that balances performance and practicality, the Equinox RS is worth a closer look.
With a sticker price of $39,890, the RS trim offers a compelling value when compared to competitors in the midsize SUV segment.
"I would say the seat is much improved over the last generation." – Ty