Test Drive: 2010 Chevy Equinox LS

Published: September 5, 2010

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Base Price: $22,615

Price as Tested: $23,665

This week we're driving Chevy's redesigned 2010 Equinox LS, an SUV that is built to deliver secure motoring, good looks and great fuel economy. With an entry level price of just $22,615, Equinox ups the ante versus the competition with an impressive 4-cylinder motivated 32-mpg fuel efficiency that allows up to 600-miles on a tank of regular grade fuel.

This 32 highway EPA rating is the best available for compact crossovers, which include Ford Escape Hybrid, Toyota Rav4 and a host of others. Mechanically identical to sibling GMC Terrain, which we drove six months ago in V6 trim, Equinox offers a more aerodynamic exterior design than the beefier GMC, yet still incorporates some of the muscular elements of a truck design in the fenders.

The 4-cylinder is very impressive, as Chevy's highly technological Ecotech 2.4-liter generates 182-horses and 174 lb. ft. of torque. It mates to a standard 6-speed automatic overdrive transmission in either 2WD or AWD dress, resulting in the excellent fuel mileage. Years ago, 6-speed automatics were either extra cost or not available in the 4-cylinder models. The Equinox LS line does not offer the optional V6, although when you move up in the higher priced LT and LTZ lines, the more powerful engine is available for $1,500 more.

Our tester came in 2WD mode, with an AWD 4-cylinder version available ($1,750 more) for those who live in harsher climates or desire for some off-road fun. As for fuel mileage, the AWD delivers a very respectable 20 city and 29 highway, while the 2WD model is much better at 22 city and the aforementioned 32 highway.

Inside, Equinox is well-done with two-tone dashboard, easy to read instrumentation, and lots of room for driver and passengers. The front buckets are comfortable and the back seat offers a sliding 60/40 design with three position recline, making for an interior that offers numerous seating and cargo options. Standard equipment includes air conditioning, remote keyless entry, power driver seat with lumbar, cruise, all the powers, AM/FM/CD/MP3 with 3 months free XM Satellite, one year of On-Star, lots of storage compartments and much more.

Passengers in the second row won't get any leg cramps as there is more than adequate room (up to 41.6 inches), while consumers who need storage capabilities will enjoy Equinox's 31.8 cu. ft. of cargo space with second row up and expansive 63.7 cubic feet of space with the second row folded.

On the road, Equinox negotiates in security and is quite nimble. The ride is good thanks to a fully independent front strut and rear trailing arm suspension built stiffer than the previous generation, while power is put to the ground via standard 17 inch tires on beautiful alloy wheels. Overall, you won't record any drag race records, but I guarantee you'll be impressed by the 4-cylinder's overall performance.

As for safety, you'll be driving in the model that won the top safety award from the "Insurance Institute for Highway Driving," as 5-Star government crash ratings in front and side tests will keep passengers as secure as possible in the event of an impact. All safety features are intact, featuring StabiliTrak electronic stability control, traction control, rollover mitigation, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes and six airbags. Your Chevy dealer will gladly explain when you visit a showroom.

Our tester had only a few options, a Bluetooth convenience package for $225, a cargo management organizer for $125, personal device interface for $250 and $80 for carpeted floor mats. This brought the final total to $23,665 with $745 destination included. This is the retail price, so make sure you check with Chevy concerning end of year discounts.

Important numbers include a wheelbase of 112.5 inches, 18.8 gallon fuel tank, 3,761 curb weight and a 1,500 lb. tow capacity.

I like the new Chevy Equinox LS, especially the fuel mileage and non-wallet-breaking prices. The return on investment looks good to me.

Likes: Price, design, safety, room, fuel mileage.

Dislikes: Some blind spots, tight second row for three adults.

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(Greg Zyla is a syndicated auto columnist).

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