In 2005, the crossover SUV boom was in full swing, and the Chevy Equinox made its debut to compete fiercely here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse. It showed that GM was listening closely to what customers wanted. Despite many new cars rolling off Detroit's assembly lines, foreign competitors often took the lead.
During this
time, automakers were shifting from body-on-frame, truck-based SUVs to unibody
car platforms. This change led to more road-friendly vehicles, offering a
smoother, less clunky driving experience. Outside the realm of full-size SUVs
and trucks, the Equinox quickly became a best-seller. Now, with the
arrival of its fourth generation, available in both EV and gas-powered
variants, it's time to see if it lives up to its reputation.
The new Equinox
exterior is more rugged and upright compared to its predecessor's more subdued
look. It immediately catches the eye with design elements that give it a
tougher appearance. Built on solid, reliable foundations, the Equinox
features a fully independent multi-link rear suspension, elevating its road
manners and giving it an edge in handling over the competition.
The steering
feels precise without being overly sensitive, making for a smooth, controlled
drive. The 1.5-liter turbocharged EcoTec inline-four engine, paired with the
latest CVT, ensures a smooth ride every time. With EPA ratings of 26 mpg city,
28 mpg highway, and 27 mpg combined, one driver achieved over 33 mpg during
test drives around the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. The dashboard has been
thoroughly revamped, now featuring two high-definition LCD screens.
An SUV with
great styling can turn even the toughest day into a more enjoyable experience,
and the Equinox's interior is designed to do just that. The
top-of-the-line ACTIV trim offers two-tone leather styling, praised by
reviewers for its quality and finish. Just over a decade ago, expectations for
a quiet cabin were low, but today, the Equinox impresses with noise and
vibration levels that are nearly luxury-like.
Consumers are
drawn to the Chevy
Equinox for its high value, especially regarding safety and technology
features. The generous screen sizes aren’t limited to the higher trims; all
models come equipped with an 11.3-inch diagonal infotainment screen and an
11-inch driver display. Chevy's latest Android-based infotainment system
seamlessly connects with your Google account, while Chevy Safety Assist is
standard on every model. Teen Driver Assist is another standout feature,
allowing parents to monitor top speeds, acceleration, and distance driven through
a secure, PIN-protected page.
