Chevrolet SUV Comparison — Glenwood, MN
Two Great SUVs. One Right Choice for You.
Choosing between the Chevy Equinox vs. Traverse can feel a bit like choosing between two great options on the menu—you really can’t go wrong, but one will fit your lifestyle just a little better. At Marthaler Chevrolet of Glenwood here in Glenwood, MN, customers ask about these two SUVs all the time. Both are comfortable, capable, and packed with the features families want today. But they’re built for different needs, and understanding those differences makes the decision a whole lot easier.
Whether you’re comparing Chevy Traverse vs. Equinox for growing family needs, weekend adventures, or everyday commuting, this guide breaks down what each SUV offers, how they differ, and which one might be the better match for your life.
Key Takeaways
- The Equinox is a compact SUV; the Traverse is a midsize SUV with more space.
- The Equinox offers better fuel efficiency; the Traverse offers more towing capability.
- Both SUVs share Chevy’s comfort, safety, and value.
- Your lifestyle—family size, cargo needs, and driving habits—determines the best fit.
- Marthaler Chevrolet of Glenwood has both models available for comparison and test drives.
Shared Chevy DNA
How the Equinox and Traverse Are Alike
Even though one is a compact SUV and the other is a midsize, both models share the same Chevy DNA. That means:
- Smooth, confident driving manners
- Modern tech like Chevy Safety Assist
- Spacious cabins with smart storage
- Strong value for the price
- A reputation for reliability
If you’re doing a Chevy SUV comparison, you’ll notice both models deliver comfort, practicality, and the kind of everyday usability Chevy is known for. But once you dig into size, power, and capability, the differences start to stand out.
Size Comparison
Equinox vs. Traverse Size: How Much Space Do You Really Need?
The Equinox vs. Traverse size comparison is one of the biggest deciding factors for most shoppers.
The Chevy Equinox is a compact SUV—easy to park, easy to maneuver, and ideal for drivers who want versatility without the bulk. It seats five comfortably and offers plenty of cargo room for groceries, sports gear, or weekend bags.
The Chevy Traverse, on the other hand, is a true midsize SUV with seating for up to eight. It’s built for bigger families, bigger adventures, and bigger cargo needs. If you’re hauling strollers, hockey bags, or a full crew of passengers, the Traverse makes life easier.
Performance & Capability
Performance & Capability: Which SUV Fits Your Driving Style?
When comparing Equinox vs. Traverse towing, the Traverse clearly takes the lead. With its turbocharged 2.5L engine, the Traverse can tow up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped1—ideal for small campers, boats, or trailers. The Equinox can tow up to 1,500 lbs when properly equipped,2 making it better suited for lighter loads.
Fuel efficiency is another deciding factor. The Equinox vs. Traverse MPG comparison favors the Equinox, with an EPA-estimated 26 MPG city / 28 MPG highway3 compared to the Traverse’s EPA-estimated 20 MPG city / 27 MPG highway.4 Its smaller size and efficient engine make it a great choice for commuters or anyone who wants to save at the pump.
So, if you’re asking “Equinox or Traverse: which is better?” the answer depends on what you value more—towing strength or fuel savings.
Side-by-Side
Which SUV Fits Your Lifestyle?
Here’s a quick breakdown to help you match each SUV to your daily life:
| Lifestyle Fit | Chevy Equinox | Chevy Traverse |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Small families, commuters, first-time SUV buyers | Larger families, road-trippers, adventure seekers |
| Driving Feel | Nimble, easy to park, city-friendly | Strong, confident, highway-ready |
| Space Needs | 5 passengers, flexible cargo | Up to 8 passengers, maximum cargo |
| Towing (when properly equipped) | Up to 1,500 lbs2 | Up to 5,000 lbs1 |
| EPA-Est. Fuel Economy | 26 city / 28 hwy mpg3 | 20 city / 27 hwy mpg4 |
| Why Choose It | Great value, great MPG, great size | Big space, big comfort, big capability |
If you’re comparing compact vs. midsize SUV Chevy options, this table sums it up: the Equinox is the right size for many drivers, while the Traverse is the right size for those who simply need more room.
Decision Guide
How to Know Which One Is Right for You
Still torn between the Chevy Traverse vs. Equinox? Here are a few questions customers often consider:
- Do you regularly drive with more than five people?
- Do you need extra cargo space for sports, travel, or gear?
- Do you tow anything?
- Do you prefer easier parking and better fuel efficiency?
- Do you want the most space possible without jumping to a full-size SUV?
If you answered yes to the first three, the Traverse is probably your match. If the last two sound more like you, the Equinox is likely the better fit.
And if you’re shopping from nearby areas like St. Cloud or Alexandria, both models are popular choices for Minnesota families. Many shoppers looking for a “Chevy dealer in St. Cloud, MN,” or a “Chevy dealer in Alexandria, MN,” end up visiting Glenwood because Marthaler Chevrolet offers a wide selection of both SUVs.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the Chevy That Fits Your Life
When it comes to the Chevy Equinox vs. Traverse, there’s no wrong answer—just the right fit for your lifestyle. The Equinox shines with efficiency, maneuverability, and everyday practicality. The Traverse steps up with space, power, and family-friendly versatility. Both deliver the comfort, technology, and dependability Chevy is known for.
If you’re still weighing your options, stopping by Marthaler Chevrolet of Glenwood is the best next step. Seeing both SUVs in person—and taking them for a drive—makes the decision much easier. Our team helps drivers compare these two models every day, and we’re here to help you find the one that feels just right.
Choose the Equinox If…
You want efficiency, city-friendly size, and everyday versatility. Great for commuters and smaller families.
Choose the Traverse If…
You need space for up to eight, more towing power, and the capability for big Minnesota road trips.
Not Sure Yet?
Come see both at Marthaler Chevrolet of Glenwood. Our team will walk you through both SUVs side by side.
Compare the Equinox & Traverse at Marthaler Chevrolet
Visit us at 2200 MN-29, Glenwood, MN 56334 — serving drivers from Alexandria, Willmar, St. Cloud, Morris, and all of central Minnesota. Browse inventory online or contact us to schedule a side-by-side test drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which SUV has more passenger space?
The Traverse offers seating for up to eight, while the Equinox seats five. If you regularly travel with a larger group or need a third row, the Traverse is the clear choice. Source: chevrolet.com.
Is the Equinox or Traverse better for towing?
The Traverse wins here. When properly equipped, the Traverse can tow up to 5,000 lbs, compared to the Equinox’s 1,500 lbs when properly equipped. The Traverse is the better choice for towing boats, small campers, or trailers. Always review the Trailering section of the Owner’s Manual. Source: chevrolet.com.
Which SUV gets better MPG?
The Equinox delivers better fuel efficiency with an EPA-estimated 26 MPG city / 28 MPG highway, compared to the Traverse’s EPA-estimated 20 MPG city / 27 MPG highway. The Equinox’s smaller size makes it the better choice for commuters and everyday driving. Actual mileage will vary. Source: chevrolet.com.
Are both SUVs good for Minnesota winters?
Yes—both the Equinox and Traverse offer available all-wheel drive and come standard with Chevy Safety Assist, which includes a suite of active safety and driver assistance features. AWD gives you added confidence on snow and ice-covered Minnesota roads.
Which one should I choose for a growing family?
Most larger families prefer the Traverse because of its seating for up to eight, generous cargo space with up to 98 cu. ft. of max cargo volume, and available third-row access. Smaller families often find the Equinox offers exactly the right amount of space with better efficiency.
Can I test drive both the Equinox and Traverse at Marthaler Chevrolet of Glenwood?
Yes. Marthaler Chevrolet of Glenwood carries both models and our team can walk you through a side-by-side comparison. Visit us at 2200 MN-29, Glenwood, MN 56334, or browse our inventory online at glenwoodchevy.com to see what’s currently in stock.
1 Maximum towing of 5,000 lbs for 2026 Chevrolet Traverse when properly equipped. Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the trailering section of the Owner’s Manual. The weight of passengers, cargo and options may reduce the amount you can tow. Source: chevrolet.com.
2 Maximum towing of 1,500 lbs for 2026 Chevrolet Equinox when properly equipped. Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the trailering section of the Owner’s Manual. The weight of passengers, cargo and options may reduce the amount you can tow. Source: chevrolet.com.
3 EPA-estimated 26 MPG city / 28 MPG highway for 2026 Chevrolet Equinox. Actual fuel economy will vary with options, driving conditions and habits, vehicle condition and other factors. Source: chevrolet.com.
4 EPA-estimated 20 MPG city / 27 MPG highway for 2026 Chevrolet Traverse. Actual fuel economy will vary with options, driving conditions and habits, vehicle condition and other factors. Source: chevrolet.com.
*The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. Click here to see all Chevrolet vehicles’ destination freight charges.
| Day | Open | Closed |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 8:00AM | 7:00PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00AM | 7:00PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00AM | 7:00PM |
| Thursday | 8:00AM | 7:00PM |
| Friday | 8:00AM | 6:00PM |
| Saturday | 8:00AM | 5:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed | Closed |
| Day | Open | Closed |
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| Monday | 8:00AM | 5:30PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00AM | 5:30PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00AM | 5:30PM |
| Thursday | 8:00AM | 5:30PM |
| Friday | 8:00AM | 5:30PM |
| Saturday | 8:00AM | 12:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed | Closed |
| Day | Open | Closed |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 8:00AM | 5:30PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00AM | 5:30PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00AM | 5:30PM |
| Thursday | 8:00AM | 5:30PM |
| Friday | 8:00AM | 5:30PM |
| Saturday | 8:00AM | 12:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed | Closed |
2200 ST MN-29, Glenwood, MN 56334
Get Directions| Department | Number |
|---|---|
| Sales | 320-334-2096 |
| Service | 320-334-2100 |
| Body Shop | 320-634-6978 |
| Parts | 320-334-2096 |