The Chevrolet Equinox is an impressive contender in the compact crossover/SUV segment. It exists on a shared platform with the GMC Terrain and Buick Envision while mirroring a general aesthetic with both the Chevy Traverse and the latest Malibu.
The Equinox benefits from three available engines that are powerful and efficient, each making use of variable valve timing and direct injection. A standard 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder makes an impressive 170 horsepower and delivers 32 mpg on the highway. There is also an optional 2.0L turbocharged engine, which is capable of 252 horsepower and an estimated 29 mpg on the highway. Front-wheel drive is the standard drivetrain, but all-wheel drive is available.
Storage areas are abundant and include an oversized glovebox, a closed storage bin in the instrument panel above the center stack and a closed storage bin under the center armrest that is large enough for a laptop computer.
Standard equipment on all trims includes 17-inch painted aluminum wheels, Stabilitrak stability control, traction control, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes, ten air bags, an anti-theft system, an XM satellite radio-ready system, iPod and MP3 capability, Bluetooth and OnStar with 4G LTE and Wi-Fi hotspot readiness. Power windows, door locks, remote keyless entry, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, as well as power mirrors and automatic headlamps round out the generous standards list.
Optional equipment on the LS trim includes deep-tinted glass and a leather wrapped steering wheel. The LT trim features HID headlights, power driver seat, steering wheel audio controls, a remote starter system and a power sunroof as optional equipment. A blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert is also available.
The top-of-the-line Premier trim includes a power lift gate, Bose speaker system and heated leather seats. With all this standard equipment, the Premier can also be outfitted with a navigation system, a power sunroof and 18 or 19-inch machine aluminum wheels.
A Confidence and Convenience Package II adds Low-Speed Forward Automatic Braking, heated steering wheel, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning as well as Forward Collision Alert, Surround Vision and IntelliBeam headlights.
