2010 Chevrolet Equinox AWD LTZ
Price as Tested: $33,735
This week we're driving Chevy's 2010 Equinox AWD, a mid-size SUV similar to the GMC Terrain we drove not too long ago. With smooth lines surrounding the famous Chevy "Bow-Tie" badge, Equinox is mechanically an identical-twin vehicle to Terrain, and also priced in a similar fashion.
As we noted in our column on the GMC, we appreciate the fact that General Motors Chevrolet and GMC mid-size SUV's have a completely different looks. Equinox is more aerodynamic and less muscular than the GMC, with fender wells that are large and much smoother than Terrain. This silky touch encompasses the entire vehicle, resulting in a "softer touch" and a more rounded look.
Built on a unibody chassis design, consumers will have four different Equinox models to choose from, starting with the entry-level 2WD LS at $22,615 or the AWD LS, which lists for just $24,365. Along the way, you'll graduate into the LT models, and then arrive at the top of the line LTZ AWD, which just happens to be our tester for the week.
Built to compete with the Ford Escape, Toyota RAV-4 and Honda CR-V, Equinox offers better overall fuel highway mileage than the trio with its 4-cylinder version, offering a stout 32 MPG. Our tester, even with its $1,500 more 264-horsepower 3.0-liter V6, still generates 24 highway and perhaps even more on long, flat highways with cruise on. These highway MPG numbers are possible thanks to the overdrive 6-speed automatic transmission that is standard fare across the line.
Inside, Chevy knows how to please, as comfortable seating awaits driver and passenger. Add the many amenities, nice gauges, and lots of head and legroom for all occupants, and you've got a winner. Notables include the standard rearview camera and ultrasonic rear parking assist, leather appointed heated seating, 8-way power driver seat with lumbar, sliding 60/40 rear seat with three position recline, automatic climate control, remote keyless entry, power rear lift gate, cruise, all the powers, Pioneer 8-speaker AM/FM/CD with USB, Bluetooth, XM Satellite, self-dimming rear mirror, compass and much more.
Passengers in the second row won't be cramped, as there is more than adequate leg room, and those who need storage capabilities will enjoy Equinox's 31.4 cu. ft. of cargo space with second row up and expansive 63.7 cubic feet of space with the second row folded. (These numbers are only .02 less than the GMC because of the rounder design).
Our tester's automatic AWD system is well built and ready for inclement weather, although as with the GMC review the 2WD is both less expensive and may prove to be a better value in warm climate areas. As for overall fuel mileage, the V6 is listed at 18 city and 25 highway in the 2WD dress and 17 city and 24 highway for the AWD. The 182-horse 4-cylinder is much better at 22 city and 32 highway in 2WD variety and 20 and 29 in the AWD version.
On the highway, Equinox is as agile and very secure thanks to the optional 19-inch tires and car-like fully independent suspension. However, similar to Terrain, Equinox offers just 6.9 inches of ground clearance so it's not built for those wild, over any terrain, off-road weekend getaways.
As for safety ratings, Equinox receives 5-Star government rank in front and side tests and a 4-Star rollover rating making this vehicle as safe and sound as possible. All expected safety features are standard, including all the airbags, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, Stabilitrak with traction control and much more. Your Chevy dealer is awaiting your visit to explain more on the advantages of the Equinox crossover SUV.
Important numbers include a wheelbase of 112.5 inches, 18 gallon fuel tank, 3,500 pound tow capacity with $350 optional trailer package, and a 3,975 pound curb weight, which is about 100 pounds less than the GMC.
The only other options on our tester were a $795 tilt and sliding sunroof and 19-inch clad chrome aluminum wheels and tires for $900, which replace the standard 17-inchers. With $745 added for destination, the final tally came in at $33,735.
I like the Equinox very much, as I did the GMC, and recommend it in this division. Just remember to drive the 4-cylinder first, and then decide if you need more power, as the fuel mileage is very attractive with the smaller engine.
Likes: Design, safety ratings, rear seat room, power.
Dislikes: A few blind spots, but backup camera helps.
(Greg Zyla is a syndicated auto columnist.)
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