Selecting the right Chevrolet SUV means balancing your driving needs with the right combination of size, performance, technology, and comfort. At George Nunnally Chevrolet, INC., serving Bentonville, Springdale, and Fayetteville, AR, our customers often ask which vehicle is best between the Chevrolet Equinox and Chevrolet Traverse. Both SUVs offer Chevrolet’s trademark reliability, advanced safety features, and cutting-edge technology, but cater to different lifestyles and driving preferences. This comprehensive guide will help you compare these two Chevrolet SUVs across key categories such as engine power, interior comfort, trim options, and technology — so you can choose the perfect fit for your daily routine or family adventures.
If you want to explore these SUVs firsthand or schedule a test drive in the Northwest Arkansas area, visit us at 2700 Se Moberly Ln, Bentonville, AR 72712 or call (479) 319-2494.
Head-to-Head Overview: Chevrolet Equinox and Traverse
To understand the primary differences at a glance, consider this comparison highlighting the core specs and ideal users for each model:
| Feature | Chevrolet Equinox | Chevrolet Traverse |
|---|---|---|
| SUV Category | Compact SUV | Midsize SUV |
| Passenger Capacity | 5 passengers | 7–8 passengers |
| Base Engine | 1.5L Turbocharged 4-cylinder | 2.5L Turbocharged 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | Approximately 175 hp | Approximately 328 hp |
| Maximum Cargo Volume | Up to 63.5 cubic feet | Nearly 98 cubic feet |
| Towing Capability | Up to 1,500 lbs | Up to 5,000 lbs |
| Ideal For | City driving, small families | Larger families, long trips |
Chevrolet Equinox: Efficient and Practical for Everyday Driving
The Chevrolet Equinox has earned its place as a versatile and manageable SUV, ideal for drivers navigating urban areas like Downtown Bentonville, Springdale, or Pea Ridge. Its smaller footprint makes parking and maneuvering easy, while its fuel efficiency suits daily commutes or weekend errands.
Powertrain and Performance
Powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine delivering roughly 175 horsepower, the Equinox balances adequate acceleration with optimized fuel efficiency. It comes standard with front-wheel drive, while optional all-wheel drive grants extra traction for changing road conditions around Prairie Grove or Cave Springs. The ride is notably quiet and refined, prioritizing comfort over sportiness, perfect for highway cruising or weaving through busy city streets.
Comfort and Interior Features
The Equinox comfortably seats five passengers with ample legroom and headroom for a compact SUV. Features like available heated front seats and a heated steering wheel provide cozy driving experiences during cold mornings in Bella Vista or Van Buren. The rear seats fold down to expand cargo space, accommodating shopping bags, sports equipment, or pets from Berryville without sacrificing passenger space.
Advanced Technology for Connectivity
Technology is seamlessly integrated with an 11.3-inch touchscreen that supports wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, keeping drivers connected without distraction. Wireless phone charging and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot ensure passengers stay powered and online on scenic drives near Siloam Springs.
Safety Features Included With Chevy Assurance
Every Equinox is equipped with Chevy Safety Assist, featuring automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and IntelliBeam high beams that enhance driver awareness. Available adaptive cruise control makes longer commutes—whether to Lowell or Farmington—smooth and less stressful.
Available Equinox Trims
- LT: The majority of everyday drivers find this trim satisfies tech and safety needs with modern styling.
- RS: Adds sportier exterior accents, perfect for drivers wanting a dynamic look on Rogers’ streets.
- ACTIV: Rugged all-terrain influences and additional capability for outdoors enthusiasts around Gentry.
👉 Find your ideal Equinox at our dealership and enjoy the Nunnally Buyer’s Advantage Program, including 3 years of complimentary maintenance—a major benefit for local drivers.
Chevrolet Traverse: Spacious and Powerful for Family Adventures
For families prioritizing space and power near Harrison, AR or on weekend trips from Fort Smith, the Chevrolet Traverse is crafted to accommodate passengers and gear comfortably. This midsize SUV offers more muscle under the hood and expansive interior space while maintaining everyday drivability.
Robust Engine and Capability
The Traverse’s 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine generates approximately 328 horsepower, providing confident acceleration even with full passenger loads or cargo. The standard 8-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth power delivery, while available advanced all-wheel drive optimizes grip on varied terrain around Tontitown.
Offering up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity, the Traverse can effortlessly haul boats, trailers, or RVs for family outings beyond Centerton borders.
Spacious Seating and Smart Interior Design
Designed to seat 7 or 8 passengers, the Traverse presents flexible options like second-row captain’s chairs or bench seats, suited to families with several children or groups traveling through Farmington or Little Flock. The Smart Slide® feature allows easy access to the third row, which is roomy enough for adults, a rare trait in this class.
Available power-folding seats simplify cargo management when gearing up for trips to local hiking trails near Prairie Grove.
Cargo Capacity and Flexibility
The cargo volume behind the third row is sufficient for groceries, sports gear, or camping supplies. Folding down the rear seats nearly doubles the available space to about 98 cubic feet, making it ideal for bigger load hauling or vacations.
Cutting-Edge In-Car Tech and Convenience
Traverse impresses with its giant 17.7-inch touchscreen, supporting Google Built-In, wireless Apple CarPlay®, and Android Auto™ to keep every occupant digitally connected. Premium options include a Bose® sound system and multiple USB ports across three rows, perfect for keeping devices charged during rides around Bella Vista or Van Buren.
For highway driving, Super Cruise® provides hands-free assistance on compatible routes near Siloam Springs.
Comprehensive Safety Features for All Passengers
Along with standard Chevy Safety Assist, the Traverse offers advanced driver aids such as blind-zone steering assist, rear cross-traffic braking, and an HD surround vision camera. The Super Cruise® system elevates safety with hands-free lane keeping and adaptive cruise control.
Traverse Trim Options
- LT: Focused on family essentials with a balanced tech and comfort package.
- Z71: Offers off-road capabilities with rugged styling—great for outdoor excursions around Gentry.
- RS: Sport-inspired designs complemented by access to Super Cruise®.
- High Country: The ultimate luxury trim, packed with premium tech and comfort features.
👉 Take advantage of the Nunnally Buyer’s Advantage Program when purchasing Traverse for added maintenance coverage and peace of mind in Siloam Springs or beyond.
Choosing the Right SUV for Your Lifestyle
Understanding your needs helps pinpoint whether the Equinox or Traverse better complements your life in Northwest Arkansas.
Select the Chevrolet Equinox if you prioritize:
- Fuel economy for everyday commutes in Rogers or Pea Ridge.
- Easy handling and parking in urban neighborhoods like Downtown Bentonville.
- A compact yet tech-savvy SUV tailored for small families or singles.
- A vehicle well-suited for shorter trips or lighter cargo needs.
Opt for the Chevrolet Traverse if you require:
- Three rows of seating to ferry a larger family or multiple passengers near Lowell or Cave Springs.
- Impressive towing capacity and more robust power delivery.
- Extensive cargo space and versatile interiors ideal for camping or sports.
- A premium technology suite that enhances long-distance highway driving.
Support and Service at George Nunnally Chevrolet, INC.
Beyond choosing your SUV, George Nunnally Chevrolet, INC. offers comprehensive support for your vehicle’s lifetime:
- Find genuine parts for your Chevy with ease by visiting our Order Chevy Parts department.
- Keep your vehicle performing at its best—schedule your next maintenance or repair by securing your spot through our Schedule Service Appointment link.
- Thinking of upgrading? Discover your current vehicle’s value for trade-in using our Trade In Value tool.
- Browse and explore our full lineup anytime online with our New Chevy Inventory and Used Vehicles Inventory pages.
We proudly support residents from Farmington, Fort Smith, and surrounding communities, ensuring your Chevrolet experience is seamless whether buying, servicing, or trading.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chevrolet Equinox and Traverse
Which SUV offers better fuel efficiency?
The Chevrolet Equinox is the more fuel-efficient choice, thanks to its smaller 1.5L turbo engine and compact design, making it ideal for city driving in places like Fayetteville.
Is the Traverse better for large families?
Yes. With up to 8-passenger seating and three rows, the Traverse is designed to comfortably accommodate larger families or groups, perfectly suited for longer trips from Harrison or Gentry.
What are the key technology differences?
Traverse features a larger 17.7-inch touchscreen and optional premium audio systems, along with hands-free driving technology (Super Cruise®), while Equinox offers an 11.3-inch screen focused on convenience and connectivity.
How much can each SUV tow?
Equinox tops out around 1,500 pounds, sufficient for light trailers or small boats. Traverse’s towing capacity reaches up to 5,000 pounds, supporting heavier loads for camping gear or recreational vehicles near Tontitown.
Final Reflection on Chevrolet Equinox vs Traverse
Choosing between the Chevrolet Equinox and Traverse depends largely on your lifestyle in Northwest Arkansas. Those prioritizing daily efficiency, urban agility, and smaller size gravitate to the Equinox. Those needing extra seating, higher power, and advanced technology benefit from the Traverse’s impressive capabilities.
Both SUVs come with Chevrolet’s trusted reliability, access to exclusive service programs, and modern safety technology, delivered with the customer-first approach you’ll experience at George Nunnally Chevrolet, INC.
For a personalized test drive or hands-on comparison, stop by us at 2700 Se Moberly Ln, Bentonville, AR 72712 or book your visit by calling (479) 319-2494. Your next Chevrolet SUV awaits!
Connect with us
Archives
- Auto Repair Fayetteville
- Bentonville Chevrolet Dealer
- Bentonville Chevrolet Service
- Bentonville Oil Change
- Bentonville Used Cars
- Car and Auto Repair Service
- Chevy Colorado
- Chevy SUVs
- Chevy Trucks
- Electric SUVs
- Fayetteville Chevy Dealer
- Fayetteville Used Car Dealer
- George Nunnally Chevrolet Service
- Mechanic
- Mid-Sized Truck
- Model Comparisons
- Model Lineup Analysis
- No Credit Bad Credit Financing
- Off-Road Truck
- Rogers Auto Repair
- Rogers Chevrolet
- Rogers Chevrolet Service
- Rogers Oil Change
- Rogers Used Car Dealership
- Silverado 2500
- Silverado Trucks
- Springdale Auto Repair
- Springdale Brake Repair
- Springdale Chevrolet Service
- Springdale Chevy Dealer
- Springdale Chevy Service
- Springdale Used Car Dealer
- Springdale Used Car Dealership
- Tire Rotation Fayetteville
- Trade Value
- Uncategorized
- Work Trucks