There's A Troubling Problem With The Chevy Equinox

Last spring we learned the2021 Chevy Equinoxrefresh is beingdelayed until the 2022 model yeardue to complications associated with the pandemic. The refreshed Traverse and Silverado have also been pushed back by a model year for the same reason. However, it's the Equinox that's currently experiencing a troubling sign.

According to GM Authority, company sources have confirmed national inventory for the 2021 Equinox is currently running at a 71-day supply. Now, compared to theBlazer's reported 28-day, this much higher number is good news, right? No. Ideally, automakers want to maintain no more than a 60-day supply. Anything less indicates production can't keep up with demand, as in the case of the Blazer and, prior to that, the Trailblazer. Above 60 days, however, is problematic because it's indicative of oversupply, low demand, or a combination of both.

Last year, the Equinox sold a total of 270,994 units in the US, making it Chevy and GM's second most popular vehicle. But here's the flip side of that coin: 2020 Equinox deliveries were down by 22 percent compared to 2019. The most likely reason for the Equinox sales drop and subsequent high inventory is that buyers are simply waiting for the refreshed model, now due to arrive in the second half of this year.

Not only will it offer cool-looking RS and luxurious Premier trims, pictured below, but also more power under the hood. Instead of the 1.5-liter inline-four rated at 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, the highly regarded 2.0-liter turbocharged four with 237 hp and 258 lb-ft, the same engine found in the Cadillac XT4, will debut as an option.