Owning an SUV is a utilitarian adventure. It has become a fashion statement, an image of luxury and dominance. However, with space getting harder to come by, along with rising oil prices and safety issues, SUVs that are smaller and more compact in size are now becoming more commonplace. With that said, it is one of the most competitive automotive divisions around. Chevrolet, one of the most popular brands in America, has a weapon for this market.
Exterior & Interior
The Equinox is considered a compact SUV, but it looks considerably bigger than most of its competition. As for its styling, some people might think that it is bland. But in reality, the simplicity of the design actually works in its favor. People likes that it has its own identity style wise, both compared to the competition and compared to other cars in the Chevy stable. The positives doesn’t stop there, however, as when you go inside this car, you can find more things to like. As for the seats, it can give comfortable seating for 5 people that are good even for long distance travels.
As for trimming, it is generally considered to be great despite the presence of some cheap looking materials. And for standard equipment, how about satellite radio, an auxiliary audio jack, and cruise control. Optional equipment includes a rearview camera, a navigation system, a comprehensive entertainment system, and heated front seats. The trunk space is just about sufficient, with 63.7 cubic feet of space on the rear. As for safety equipment, there is a host of airbags, anti lock brakes, traction control, stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Performance
There are 2 engines available for the Equinox. The base engine is a 2.4 liter 4 cylinder engine that produces a maximum of 182 horsepower. A 3.0 liter V6 engine that produces 264 horsepower is optional equipment for those that want more punch. Two wheel drive is standard, while a 4 wheel drive system is optional. Even though both engines sound powerful enough, it has lower output than some of its competitors.
However, it still brings adequate performance. But for its lack of power, it has strong fuel efficiency numbers that is arguably the best in its class. Miles per gallon performance for the 4 cylinder ranges from 22 to 32, and 17 to 24 miles per gallon is the typical range for the V6. In addition, the handling of this car is top notch. It can absorb contact from the road with ease, ensuring ride smoothness. It has disc brakes for all 4 wheels that ensure good stopping power. Steering feel is excellent with power steering, and its cornering characteristics are deemed to be effective.
Pros & Cons
The Chevrolet Equinox is one of the most critically acclaimed compact SUVs on the market today. First up, it integrates a ton of good things given its affordable price tag. The styling, though not exactly spectacular, is simple, clean, and distinctive. And when you come inside, the interior is a great place to be.
The seats are very comfortable and room is very adequate, which is great news for riders that tend to go on long distance trips. Also, the fuel economy, especially for the 4 cylinder, is excellent. And its suspension is well sorted out. And as for weaknesses, people could get disappointed with its lack of a third row seat, and there is a considerable drop on the fuel economy for the V6 engine.
All in all, the compact size of the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox belies the quality in which it is constructed. It is one of the best compact SUVs in the world, and this is something that is going to give you serious value.
Overall Rating
76 out of 100
What others say:
“The Equinox hits the mark in many ways with respect to practicality and comfort, and only lets down on a few cost-cut material details.”Car Connection
“Equinox 4-cylinder models have electric power steering that’s designed to increase fuel economy, but it lacks road feel. The V6’s hydraulic power steering doesn’t feel much better. A surprisingly large turning radius can complicate close-quarters maneuvering. Braking is smooth and progressive.”Consumer Guide
“The Equinox has a taut yet supple and controlled ride, with responsive and secure handling.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports
“Not quite as much cargo space as chief rivals; some controls difficult to reach; numb and uncommunicative steering.”Edmunds
“If you prefer bold styling over bland, cutting edge audio and navigation over gutless four speaker systems, and class-leading 32-mpg highway fuel economy, Chevrolet has built a crossover utility vehicle for you.”KBB
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Mid SUV(FWD) | Base Price: $22,995.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.8 gallons (71 liters) | MPG: 22 city / 32 hwy |
| Length: 187.8 in. (477 cm) | Width: 72.5 in. (184 cm) |
| Height: 66.3 in. (168 cm) | Wheel Base: 112.5 in. (285 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 3786 lbs (961 kg) | Ground Clearance: 7.8 in. (19 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 31.4 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 2.4L 16 valve DOHC inline-4 ECOTEC | Displacement: 146.5 cu in |
| Horsepower: 182 HP | Max RPM: 6700 RPM |
| Torque: 172 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic |
| 0-60 mph: 8.5 seconds | Max Towing Capacity: 1500 lbs (680 kgs) |
| Option:Equinox LT FWD | MSRP: $24,160; MPG: 22 city / 32 hwy |
| Option:Equinox LTZ FWD | MSRP: $28,570; MPG: 22 city / 32 hwy |
| Option:Equinox LT AWD | MSRP: $25,910; MPG: 20 city / 29 hwy |
| Option:Equinox LTZ AWD | MSRP: $30,320; MPG: 20 city / 29 hwy |
