Measuring Up: 2010 Chevrolet Equinox

Cars

By Brian Douglas, Autoeditor.com

Last update: November 6, 2009 - 2:24 PM

In the "old days" of a couple of years ago, when a domestic automaker introduced a new or improved model, it would compare the new offering to its crosstown rivals. So if Chevy had a new compact SUV like the Equinox, it would dig up a Ford Escape and Dodge Caliber for critics to compare it to. Never mind that Honda's CR-V and Toyota's RAV4 might really be the benchmarks for perceived quality, features and performance.

That page in General Motors' product strategy looks like history. A few months back, I traveled to Detroit to drive Chevy's new Equinox and learn about plans for it to compete in what has become a highly competitive and crowded segment.

At the end of a day's driving, we were offered new Toyota RAV4s and Honda CR-Vs to compare with the new Equinox models. And they were new, unaltered competitive models, not rental fleet or worse. The results were impressive for Chevrolet. The Equinox more than measured up in every objective and subjective category with no excuses.

It's refreshing to see GM launch another vehicle (Cadillac CTS, Chevy Malibu and Buick Enclave are other picks) that can go toe-to-toe with the best in class and win. That's hardly enough for GM and Chevrolet to do these days, since the buying public is still skeptical. But with a 60-day money-back offer in place, you can do your own comparison.

I spent a week driving a well-equipped LTZ model with the optional 3.0-liter, 264-horsepower, V-6 engine, sunroof, trailering package and 18-inch aluminum wheels that, along with a host of premium standard features, pushed the MSRP above $30,000. That's still competitive with top-line Toyota and Honda offerings, but unless you need a luxury tow rig, the LT with its four-cylinder engine will do the job for far less. Equinox is available in LS, LT and LTZ models.

The new Equinox looks contemporary from every angle and does not disappoint the critical eye on close examination. Fit and finish are world class, with precision apparent everywhere. Inside, the newest Chevy is just as refined, with a floating center stack and subtle lighting to add special touches not common to this class.

On the road, the Equinox is smooth, with power delivered through new six-speed automatic transmissions to either front or all-wheel-drive models. And if towing is required, the factory system enables 3,500-pound capacity. If a compact SUV is in your future, the Equinox should be on your short list of prospects.

EPA fuel economy:

City: 17 to 22, Highway: 25 to 32 (depending on engine size)

Base Price:

$28,045 (as tested, $31,685)

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