The five-passenger Equinox is Chevy's entry in the competitive mid-size SUV market and is a carryover design from 2008. It capitalizes on the growing trend towards smaller, fuel-efficient SUV's.
Built on GM's Theta unibody platform, the Equinox shares underpinnings with the GMC Terrain, Pontiac Torrent, and Saturn VUE. The Equinox features four-wheel independent suspension which delivers a comfortable, car-like ride.
LS, LT, and LTZ models are powered by a 3.4 Liter, 185 horsepower V6 mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The Sport model features a 264 horsepower 3.6 liter V6 mated to a 6-speed automatic. Front-wheel-drive is standard and all wheel drive is available. Because of its unibody design, all-wheel-drive versions of the Equinox are not intended for serious off-roading of which body-on-frame SUV's are capable.
Stopping the Equinox is done with 4-wheel ABS equipped discs. StabiliTrak and traction control come as standard equipment on all trim levels.
The EPA rates the Equinox's fuel efficiency at 17 miles per gallon city, 24 highway for the 3.4 liter engine while the 3.6 liter gets 16 City, 24 highway.
Passenger and cargo space are major interior considerations as a sliding 60/40 split rear seat provides maximum passenger leg room and up to 67.1 cubic feet of cargo space. Up front, power reclining bucket seats with optional heat and leather inserts and faux wood cabin accents set the dŽcor. All trims come with a tilt/telescoping multi-function steering wheel.
An AM/FM stereo CD player is standard with up-rated seven-speaker audio CD, Satellite Radio and navigation system optional.
Base MSRP for the 2009 Chevrolet Equinox is $23,555. A Sport model, equipped with all wheel drive and full options will break $38,000. The Equinox is backed by a generous 5-year, 100,000-mile power train warranty.
The Chevy Equinox for 2009: versatile passenger accommodations, good fuel economy and ample cargo space...a solid contender in the mid-size SUV class.