Chevrolet Equinox Review

The Chevrolet Equinox is part of a growing segment of "plus-sized" small crossover SUVs. Like other vehicles of this type, the Equinox provides the style and utility one normally associates with more traditional SUVs, but without their clumsy driving dynamics and poor fuel economy. As with other crossovers, the Equinox is built on a carlike platform that provides superior on-road comfort and crashworthiness.

There have been two Equinox generations. Earlier models were known for their roomy interiors and easy-driving nature, but they also suffered from substandard interior materials. The second-generation Equinox, thanks to its sharper styling, improved cabin fit and finish, additional features and new engine choices, is a much-improved vehicle and a top pick for a small crossover SUV.

Current Chevrolet Equinox
The Chevrolet Equinox crossover SUV is available in LS, 1LT, 2LT and LTZ trim levels. Even the LS comes well-equipped, with power front seat height adjustment, a sliding and reclining backseat, OnStar and a sound system with a CD player, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack. The 1LT adds a USB port, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and Bluetooth, while the 2LT gets you automatic climate control, a rearview camera and heated seats. The top-dog LTZ comes with a power liftgate and leather upholstery. All models have stability control and a full complement of airbags as standard. Major options include a rear-seat entertainment system and a hard-drive-based navigation system.

A 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine (182 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque) is standard and a 3.0-liter V6 (264 hp and 222 lb-ft) is optional on all but the LS. A six-speed automatic is the sole transmission offered. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive optional.

In reviews, our editors have been quite impressed with the current Chevy Equinox. In addition to its handsome styling, the Equinox boasts a quiet, comfortable cabin and a supple ride over broken pavement. Other than its mediocre maximum cargo capacity, the well-equipped and well-rounded Equinox has plenty going for it and is a strong entry in the compact crossover segment.

Used Chevrolet Equinox Models
The second-generation Chevrolet Equinox debuted for 2010. Other than some minor adjustments to feature availability, it's carried on since unchanged.

The previous Chevy Equinox was produced from 2005-'09. Unlike the current model, it came with a standard V6, and the only optional engine was an even more powerful V6 that arrived for 2008. A wide range of trim levels were available. Even base models came with a CD player and full power accessories, while upper trim levels, depending on the year, added niceties like alloy wheels, leather seating, heated front seats and upgraded audio. The late-arriving Sport model added the stouter V6, bigger wheels and a more firmly tuned suspension.

All first-generation Chevrolet Equinox models except the Sport were equipped with a 3.4-liter V6 that generated 185 hp and 210 lb-ft of torque. The Sport stepped up to a 3.6-liter V6 that made a potent 264 hp. Both engines were mated to a five-speed automatic transmission that directed power to the front wheels, and all-wheel drive was optional.

In reviews of the first-generation Chevy Equinox, our editors praised its versatile interior, particularly the 60/40-split rear seat that could be slid almost 8 inches fore and aft. An adjustable rear cargo shelf enhanced storage opportunities and doubled as a picnic table. We noted that there was lots of room behind the rear seats -- 35 cubic feet, to be precise -- and a full 69 cubic feet with those seats folded, which is more than the current Equinox can muster. On the road, however, the previous Equinox wasn't anything to write home about. Long drives were a breeze, thanks to the quiet cabin and smooth ride, but the base V6 was a bit coarse, and the electric power steering was numb and sluggish.

Notable changes over the course of the first-generation Equinox's production cycle include standard antilock brakes for 2006; standard stability control and four-wheel disc brakes and an optional navigation system for 2007; the arrival of the Sport model and luxurious LTZ model for 2008; and standard side curtain airbags and satellite radio with optional Bluetooth for 2009.