Introduction
Larger in both scale and scope than the entry-level Tracker it replaces, Chevy's new Equinox represents the division's first foray into the car-based sport/utility category. Sharing a Theta platform unit-body with the Saturn Vue, the steel-skinned Equinox has distinctive interior and exterior styling cues and boasts a 112.5-inch wheelbase, 5.9 inches longer than its plastic-paneled cousin and barely half an inch less than the truck-based Trailblazer. Both the base Equinox LS and upline LT come with a V-6 engine, roomy passenger compartment, and a generous roster of comfort and convenience touches. Each offers a choice of front- or optional on-demand all-wheel drive. Our test vehicle was a modestly optioned front-drive LS variant.
Exterior
Although the Equinox maintains traditional SUV cues, the smartly raked back glass adds a bit of contemporary flair aimed at enticing youthful buyers. A broad horizontal chrome bar splits the front grill to reinforce its Chevy truck heritage and further distance the Equinox from the Vue. Standard 16-inch steel wheels wrapped in 235/65SR16 M+S tires can be upgraded to 16- or 17-inch alloy rims, the latter wearing 235/60SR17 rubber.
Interior
A relatively low step-in height and large, wide-opening doors ensure easy entry and exit.... Read full article