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- Highs Peppy available V-6 engine, good driving dynamics, lots of useful standard technology.
- Lows Anemic base engine, harsh ride over rough surfaces, some rivals have more cargo room.
- Verdict The Equinox is a solid choice in its class, but be prepared to move up in trim levels to increase livability.
Overview
The second-generation Chevrolet Equinox went on sale in the 2010 model year as a two-row car-based sport-utility vehicle that is a sort of ‘tweener—on the large side of the compact class or the small side of the mid-size class. When considered a compact, it’s the only model in the segment available with a V-6, a 301-hp 3.6-liter engine that allows for a 3500-pound maximum towing capacity. The base 182-hp 2.4-liter inline four model, when equipped with front-wheel-drive, was the first small SUV with more than 30 mpg city fuel efficiency. Both engines are available with either front- or all-wheel-drive, and both mate to a six-speed automatic transmission.
What's New for 2017?
Two special-edition models are available for the 2017 Equinox. Both the Midnight Edition and the Sport Edition can be ordered on the Equinox LT, when equipped with the extra-price Convenience package. They include such items as black Chevy bowtie exterior emblems and black grille, black aluminum 18-inch wheels, jet-black perforated leather seat surfaces, memory power driver’s seat and sideview mirrors, and black mirror caps and roof rack crossbars. The former top-trim LTZ is now called “Premier.”
Pricing
Original MSRP:
- L: $23,995
- LS: $26,405
- LT: $27,645
- Premier: $30,935
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
A loaded Equinox with the 182-hp four-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive we tested was marginal at best in acceleration, with an 8.9-second 0-60 mph time, and the engine sounds coarse in its sprint to the 6700 rpm redline. Under normal acceleration, the six-speed transmission seems to be tuned for the EPA fuel-economy cycle, as it wants to shift into the top gear as soon as possible, making merging into traffic a slow proposition. A better bet would be the available V-6 with its class-leading 301 horsepower. The Equinox’s driving dynamics make it fairly competitive, with a chassis that is free of quiver and moderate body motions, although the ride can be harsh over rough surfaces. Brakes are slightly below average for the segment, which itself is a low bar considering the class. Steering is nicely weighted, though not terribly accurate.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Equinox starts with the base L model in rental-car territory with few features, and transitions from plain, sturdy cloth seats in LS and LT trims to perforated leather seating surfaces, automatic climate control, and other niceties in the Premier. Interior noise levels, when the SUV is not under hard acceleration, are at or near best-in-class, and interior fit and finish is within the standards of this segment. The second-row bench seat has eight inches of fore-and-aft adjustment. Cargo capacity lags behind some rivals, at 31.5 cubic-feet with the second-row seat upright, 63.7 cubic feet with it folded.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Standard tech for the Equinox includes a 7.0-inch display, Bluetooth phone-only connectivity, Wi-Fi, a USB port, and a six-speaker stereo. Higher trims come with the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system, with a 7.0-inch color touchscreen, navigation, and Bluetooth audio capability. MyLink is easy to use on the go, but it doesn’t have the most attractive interface. However, its on-screen buttons are large enough to execute commands while driving, and the system is responsive to inputs.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
For more information about the Chevrolet Equinox‘s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.
