Chevy Equinox
Casey Williams, www.car-data.com
Chevrolet sold many of the first-generation Equinox, but let’s face it, the mid-size crossoverwas not at the top of its class in refinement or fuel economy. The plastics always seemed, well,plastic. It had a longish turning radius and every owner I ever talked to mentioned how much gaswent through its injectors. Only with recent V6 engines and an upgraded interior did the vehiclecome into its own and become a good choice among crossovers. An all-new second-generation willdebut for 2010. Judging from its appearance and other recent GM products, I suspect engineers anddesigners have learned their lessons well.
Exterior styling is equal parts Chevy Malibu, Saturn Vue, and Chevy Traverse ‘ meaning it is ahandsomely well-developed design with traditional and futuristic cues. A bold crossbar grille partswind and leads into accentuated wheel arches and bodyside character lines. The rear features largeclear lens taillamps. It would be easy to confuse the Equinox with a Lexus or Acura SUV.
Interior themes are based on Chevrolet’s historic twin-cowl design that came to vogue with thecurrent Malibu and Traverse, not to mention the Corvette. Large analog gauges, sporty three-spokesteering wheel, swooping dashboard, and contrasting dash and seat colors are a visual barrage ofstyle. Unfortunately, nobody saw fit to slide in at least a small third-row seat for tots. If youwant to haul seven passengers, you’ll have to buy the larger Traverse (an excellent choice).
Addressing fuel economy is a base 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine that generates 182 horsepowerand 21/30-MPG city/highway. Up level models come with a 255-horsepower direct-injected V6 thatachieves 18/25-MPG city/hwy. Four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes and Stabilitrak electronic stabilitycontrol are standard. Chevrolet claims more than 500 miles of driving range with either engine.
Said Ed Peper, GM N.A. V.P. for Chevrolet, ‘At a time when customers are so concerned about thefuel efficiency of their vehicle, the Equinox delivers. It offers the roominess and capability of acrossover with great fuel economy. Equinox will provide customers a vehicle filled with refinement,comfort and great value.’
We’ll have to wait until early next year to drive the new Equinox, but given the vehicles withwhich it shares a vehicle architecture (Saturn Vue) and styling (Traverse), it is sure to be lightyears ahead of its predecessor. Finally, a refined, stylish, and efficient crossover from Chevrolet. Good things are coming.
