Opportunity Equinox

Chevy makes waves in the crossover segment with the 2010 Equinox.
Apple Chevy Newsletter  December 2009

In a class saturated by intense competition, the 2010 Equinox is anything other than just another crossover. Quite the contrary, as Chevy’s latest has stormed into the market and overshadowed some of the biggest names in the segment with superior style, luxury and performance.

Chevy describes the design of the newest Equinox as “obsessive.” Obsessively crafted. Obsessively detailed. Obsessively fixated on modern style. Indeed, the 2010 Equinox’s design is obsessive, and for all the right reasons.

Chevy’s commitment to modernism begins outside where its latest crossover has been redesigned to have greater appeal and more distinct craftsmanship than ever before. The Equinox’s pointed black mesh grille is split horizontally by a thick, bow-tie logo-emblazoned bar, and flanked by sleek, jewel-type headlight clusters and integrated foglamps.

Set on a foundation of standard 17-inch alloys (or available chrome wheels), the vehicle’s arches and panels are thicker, bolder and more muscular, giving the crossover instant appeal with the SUV audience. Those seeking a sleek and stylish alternative to the SUV won’t be disappointed, however, as its enhanced length (the Equinox is longer than the Rav4, CR-V and Escape) allows for long, fluid and contemporary lines and features, not to mention increased interior space. For enhanced versatility, Chevy has integrated available roof rails and a power-adjustable liftgate.

Beneath the hood, Chevy’s forward thinking and advanced engineering takes the form of two uniquely impressive engine choices. The first, a 2.4-liter ECOTEC four-cylinder, utilizes intelligent design and direct injection to generate 182 hp and 172 lb/ft of torque through a standard six-speed automatic transmission.

Aided by the Equinox’s sleek, aerodynamic body and advanced tires, Chevy’s 2.4 also generates class-leading fuel efficiency. Beyond simply being more powerful, the base engine’s 32 mpg beats competing engines from Honda, Toyota and even Ford’s Hybrid model Escape. For enhanced performance and greater towing capability, the Equinox also features an available 3.0-liter V6, which churns out 264 hp and offers a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds.

As a crossover, the Equinox’s steering is tighter and more responsive than larger SUVs. Chevy’s StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control System combines with advanced traction control and rollover mitigation to ensure precise, controlled handling that makes the most of every one of the vehicle’s ample horses. Superior capability takes the form of Chevy’s available all-wheel drive system, which provides exceptional traction and power to both front and rear wheels when called upon.

Inside, Chevy’s emphasis on class-besting modernism takes the form of one of the company’s most impressive cabins to date. Clean and simple in design, the interior of the newest crossover is beautifully crafted and impeccably arranged. Innovative storage options fill every conceivable spare inch and, thanks to the Equinox’s greater size, the sizable backend comprises over 63 cubic feet of cargo area.

The crossover’s size ensures exceptional passenger spaciousness as well, as the five-seater features exceptional head and shoulder space, as well as the most rear-seat legroom in its class. In the back, Chevy’s versatile MultiFlex rear seats recline for comfort or fold down for enhanced cargo capability.

Up front, the Equinox’s cockpit (with available leather seating) is surprisingly quiet, given the exceptional rumbling from the engine compartment. Laminated glass and a remarkable emphasis on noise dampening have ensured a cabin that’s noticeably quieter than offerings from Honda or Toyota. Style, too, is impressive, as the new Equinox integrates the latest technology in an innovative and visually appealing fashion.

The unique center stack houses controls to the premium audio system, as well as Chevy’s optional, hard drive-based Navigation and Infotainment system. With up to 40GB of digital music storage, an integrated backup camera, Bluetooth hands-free communication and iPod and XM Satellite Radio connectivity, Chevy’s system is its most advanced and impressive to date. A rear-seat DVD entertainment system is available as well.

As usual, Chevy’s latest features the incomparable OnStar system, an exclusive push-button activated system providing everything from turn-by-turn directions to emergency response. The vehicle’s six standard airbags (including front, side and side-curtain bags) provide exceptional protection to all occupants during a collision.

In a segment as saturated as that of the crossover, the cream tends to rise to the top. The 2010 Chevy Equinox features a starting MSRP of $22,440.