Chevy Blazer vs. Equinox: Which SUV is Actually Bigger?

If you're shopping for a Chevrolet SUV, you've likely narrowed your choices down to the Blazer and Equinox. While both are popular midsize crossovers, there are significant differences in size, capability, and performance that could make or break your buying decision. Let's dive deep into a comprehensive comparison to help you determine which vehicle truly offers more space and capability.

Overall Dimensions: The Size Breakdown

The Chevy Blazer is the larger vehicle in nearly every measurable dimension. Here's how they stack up:

Exterior Dimensions

Chevy Blazer:

• Length: 191.4 inches
• Width: 76.7 inches
• Height: 66.7-67.4 inches (depending on trim)
• Wheelbase: 112.7 inches

Chevy Equinox:

• Length: 183.1 inches
• Width: 72.6 inches
• Height: 65.4-66.3 inches
• Wheelbase: 107.3 inches

The Blazer stretches over 8 inches longer and is 4 inches wider than the Equinox, giving it a noticeably more substantial road presence. The longer wheelbase also contributes to a more spacious interior and better ride quality on the highway.

Interior Space: Where It Really Counts

Passenger Volume

Chevy Blazer:

• Front headroom: 39.6-40.0 inches
• Front legroom: 43.0 inches
• Rear headroom: 38.0-39.4 inches
• Rear legroom: 39.6 inches
• Total passenger volume: 104.8 cubic feet

Chevy Equinox:

• Front headroom: 40.9 inches
• Front legroom: 40.9 inches
• Rear headroom: 39.9 inches
• Rear legroom: 39.9 inches
• Total passenger volume: 103.5 cubic feet

Surprisingly, the Equinox actually offers slightly more front legroom and headroom, making it particularly comfortable for taller drivers. However, the Blazer provides comparable rear-seat space while offering a wider cabin that accommodates three passengers more comfortably across the back seat.

Cargo Capacity: A Critical Difference

This is where the Blazer's size advantage becomes most apparent.

Chevy Blazer:

• Cargo space behind rear seats: 30.5-33.0 cubic feet
• Maximum cargo space (seats folded): 64.2-64.6 cubic feet

Chevy Equinox:

• Cargo space behind rear seats: 29.9 cubic feet
• Maximum cargo space (seats folded): 63.9 cubic feet

While the difference might seem minimal on paper, the Blazer's wider body means you can fit bulkier items side-by-side more easily. The extra width is particularly valuable when loading strollers, sports equipment, or luggage. Both vehicles feature split-folding rear seats for cargo versatility.

Towing Capacity: Blazer Takes the Lead

If you plan to tow a boat, camper, or trailer, the size difference becomes more significant.

Chevy Blazer:

• Maximum towing capacity: 4,500 pounds (when properly equipped)
• Available towing package on most trims
• More powerful engine options support heavier loads

Chevy Equinox:

• Maximum towing capacity: 3,500 pounds (when properly equipped)
• Available towing package
• Adequate for smaller trailers and watercraft

The Blazer's 1,000-pound towing advantage means you can handle larger campers, boats, or enclosed trailers without worry. This makes it the clear choice for buyers who regularly tow.

Payload Capacity

Chevy Blazer:

• Payload capacity: Approximately 1,400-1,550 pounds (varies by trim)

Chevy Equinox:

• Payload capacity: Approximately 1,100-1,200 pounds (varies by trim)

The Blazer's larger frame and more robust suspension allow it to carry significantly more weight in passengers and cargo combined, making it better suited for families with lots of gear or those who frequently load up for road trips.

Performance: Power Meets Size

Engine Options

Chevy Blazer:

• Base engine: 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder (228 hp, 258 lb-ft torque)
• Available engine: 3.6L V6 (308 hp, 270 lb-ft torque)
• 0-60 mph: Approximately 6.3-7.2 seconds (depending on engine)

Chevy Equinox:

• Base engine: 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder (175 hp, 203 lb-ft torque)
• Available engine: 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder (252 hp, 260 lb-ft torque)
• 0-60 mph: Approximately 6.8-9.0 seconds (depending on engine)

The Blazer's optional V6 engine provides substantially more power, making it feel more confident when fully loaded or climbing mountain grades. The Equinox's base engine is adequate for daily driving but can feel strained when carrying a full load of passengers and cargo.

Fuel Economy Trade-offs

The Equinox's smaller size and lighter weight give it a fuel economy advantage:

Chevy Blazer:

• 2.0L turbo: Up to 22 mpg city / 29 mpg highway (FWD)
• 3.6L V6: Up to 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway (FWD)

Chevy Equinox:

• 1.5L turbo: Up to 26 mpg city / 31 mpg highway (FWD)
• 2.0L turbo: Up to 22 mpg city / 28 mpg highway (FWD)

If fuel efficiency is your top priority and you don't need the extra space or towing capacity, the Equinox offers better economy, especially with the base engine.

Ground Clearance and Off-Road Capability

Chevy Blazer:

• Ground clearance: 7.6-7.9 inches (depending on trim)
• Available all-wheel drive with Twin Clutch system
• Better suited for light off-road adventures

Chevy Equinox:

• Ground clearance: 7.9 inches
• Available all-wheel drive
• Adequate for poor weather and dirt roads

Despite being the larger vehicle, both offer similar ground clearance, making them equally capable in snow and on unpaved roads.

Which SUV is Right for You?

Choose the Chevy Blazer if:

• You need maximum towing capacity (up to 4,500 lbs)
• You regularly carry bulky cargo that requires extra width
• You want more powerful engine options, including a V6
• You prefer a more substantial, road-commanding presence
• You need higher payload capacity for heavy loads
• You value a sportier, more aggressive exterior design

Choose the Chevy Equinox if:

• Fuel economy is your highest priority
• You want a more maneuverable vehicle for city parking
• The lower starting price fits your budget better
• You don't need to tow more than 3,500 pounds
• You prefer better front-seat headroom and legroom
• A slightly smaller footprint makes parking easier

The Bottom Line

The Chevy Blazer is definitively the bigger vehicle, offering more exterior size, cargo width, towing capacity, payload capability, and performance potential. It's approximately 8 inches longer, 4 inches wider, and can tow 1,000 pounds more than the Equinox.

However, "bigger" doesn't always mean "better" for every driver. The Equinox provides nearly as much passenger and cargo space while delivering better fuel economy and easier maneuverability. It's also typically priced lower, making it an excellent value proposition.

For families who need serious towing capability, frequently haul large items, or simply want a more substantial SUV, the Blazer justifies its larger size and price premium. For daily commuters who prioritize efficiency and affordability while still needing practical SUV versatility, the Equinox delivers everything most buyers need in a slightly more compact, efficient package.

Both are excellent choices in Chevrolet's SUV lineup—your decision should ultimately come down to whether you need the Blazer's extra capability or prefer the Equinox's efficiency and value.

Visit Lou Bachrodt Chevrolet in Rockford for Your Perfect SUV

Ready to experience the Chevy Blazer and Equinox in person? Lou Bachrodt Chevrolet in Rockford, Illinois is your trusted destination for comparing these outstanding SUVs side-by-side. Our experienced sales team serves drivers throughout Rockford, Elgin, and the surrounding communities with an extensive inventory of new Chevrolet vehicles, including multiple Blazer and Equinox models in various trims, colors, and configurations.

At Lou Bachrodt Chevrolet, we understand that choosing the right SUV is a major decision. That's why we encourage you to schedule a test drive to feel the difference in size, performance, and comfort between these two popular models. Our knowledgeable staff can walk you through cargo demonstrations, explain towing packages, and help you explore available features to ensure you select the vehicle that perfectly matches your lifestyle and budget.

Beyond the Blazer and Equinox, our showroom features the complete lineup of Chevrolet vehicles, including the compact Chevy Trax, the three-row Chevy Traverse for larger families, the rugged Chevy Tahoe and Suburban, and Chevy's innovative electric vehicles like the Blazer EV and Equinox EV. Whether you're looking for fuel efficiency, maximum cargo space, or cutting-edge technology, we have the perfect Chevrolet waiting for you.

Visit our Rockford dealership today to explore our inventory, take advantage of current incentives and financing options, and discover why families throughout Northern Illinois trust Lou Bachrodt Chevrolet for all their automotive needs. Your ideal Chevy SUV is waiting—let us help you find it!

Contact Lou Bachrodt Chevrolet today to schedule your test drive and compare the Blazer and Equinox firsthand.