The 2021 Chevrolet Equinox and the 2021 Chevrolet Traverse were both originally slated to go on sale in the fall of 2020; however, the refreshed models were soon pushed to the 2022 model year. Now we know when both updated SUVs will hit dealerships.
The 2022 Chevrolet Equinox goes on sale this summer, while the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse follows in the fall.
The mid-cycle refresh for the Equinox was first shown at the 2020 Chicago Auto Show—the last major auto show before the coronavirus forced the cancellation of all major events for the rest of the year and into 2021. The 2022 Equinox features updated styling that gives it a more mature look. Key to changes include a reworked grille, headlights, and taillights. For 2022, Chevy adds a new RS trim with black-painted badges and wheels, a glossy grille, and a black interior with red contrast stitching.
The current Chevy Traverse, a mid-size family crossover with three rows of seats, dates back to 2017. The updated 2022 model was revealed in March. Changes include narrower headlights, a more cohesive grille, a reworked fascia, and new LED taillights. Inside there is a new driver information center, nicer materials, and a rear power sunshade for the two-panel sunroof. The infotainment system adds wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well.
The timing of the two vehicles came amid an update on the Chevrolet brand. Despite the pandemic, the volume brand grew sales, gained market share, and increased average transaction prices in 2020, Chevrolet vice president Steve Hill said.
Inventory of popular pickups and SUVs was light at times, and GM invested in a number of plants in the United States and Canada to increase its production of engines, transmissions, and vehicles.
Additionally, GM dealerships achieved record profitability, while online tools were beefed up to augment sales during the pandemic. GM also adopted a more focused ordering process that looks at what models and options are most popular in a given area and sends vehicles best equipped for given markets. A service by the name of “VIN view” allows dealers to find vehicles elsewhere in the country and track their progress to the waiting customer.
