The
2011 Chevrolet Equinox is a stylish and comfortable crossover sport utility vehicle (SUV) with a premium look inside and out. Equipped with either a 2.4-liter I-4 engine or a 3.0-liter V-6 flex fuel capable engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, the Chevy Equinox is front-wheel drive, which is more compatible with daily driving than four-wheel drive.
Among the amenities of the Chevy Equinox include, but are not limited to, a quiet cabin, adjustable back seat, and plenty of storage bins. Fuel economy in the 20 mpg / 29 mpg range is quite admirable, with the EcoTec engine delivering an EPA rating equaling 32 miles per gallon on the highway. The Equinox comes with top-drawer safety equipment.
New for 2011
For 2011, the Chevy Equinox's V-6 engine is flex fuel capable (E85). Upgrades include heated cloth seats are standard on 2LT, while Bluetooth for the phone, USB port, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls are standard on 1LT. The LS gets a compass. The OnStar Directions and Connections subscription is free for a six-month trial.
Essentials
Engines: 2.4L I-4, 3.0L V-6
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Body Style: Crossover SUV
Trims: LS Sport Utility, LT Sport Utility, LTZ Sport Utility
On the Outside
There are no external styling changes on the 2011 Chevy Equinox, and its "multi-dimensional" hood and wraparound rear glass are quite elegant.
From the Inside
Active Noise Cancellation now comes on four-cylinder Equinoxes. Generally, the Chevy Equinox uses good quality leathers, vinyl, and cloth inside, however, hard-plastic surfaces on top of dash remain.
Driving Performance
Unexpectedly impressive for a 182 horsepower engine is Equinox's base four-cylinder. The Chevy Equinox has a ride is that is smooth and nicely damped, with handling and predictable under-steer that is especially well-suited to a crossover SUV.
Safety Equipment
Standard safety equipment on the Chevy Equinox includes six airbags, including head curtain side bags and pelvic/thorax seat-mounted bags. Also standard are four-wheel disc brakes, StabiliTrak electronic stability control, traction control, and OnStar with Directions and Connections.
Gas Mileage
LS, LT, LTZ (2.4L) FWD: 22 mpg city/32 mpg highway
LS, LT, LTZ (2.4L) AWD: 20 mpg city/29 mpg highway
LS, LT, LTZ (3.0L) FWD: 17 mpg city/25 mpg highway
LS, LT, LTZ (3.0L) AWD: 17 mpg city/24 mpg highway
Plusses
- Modern styling
- Premium Interior
- Comfortable ride
- Good fuel economy
Minuses
- Busy center stack
- Some interior plastic
Rating
Appealing alternative to big SUVs
People Who Like the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox Also Like
- Toyota RAV4
- Ford Escape
- Honda CR-V
- Hyundai Tucson