The Chevrolet Equinox is an impressive contender in the compact SUV crossover segment. It exists on a shared platform with GMC Terrain and the Buick Envision while mirroring a general aesthetic with both the Chevy Traverse and the latest Malibu. The Equinox benefits from three available engines that are both powerful and efficient, each making use of variable valve timing, direct injection, and even diesel technology. A standard 1.5L turbo-charged 4-cylinder makes an impressive 170 horsepower yet delivers 32 mpg on the highway. There is also an optional 2.0L turbo-charged engine, which is capable of 252 horsepower and an estimated 29 mpg on the highway. Gm has also introduced a 1.6L inline four diesel making 240 lb-feet of torque through a 6-speed automatic transmission for an estimated 39 mpg. Front-wheel drive is the standard drivetrain, but all-wheel drive is available. Storage areas are abundant and include an oversized glovebox, a closed storage bin in the instrument panel above the center stack and a closed storage bin under the center armrest large enough for a laptop computer. Standard equipment on all trims includes 17-inch painted aluminum wheels, StabiliTrak stability control, traction control, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes, ten air bags, an anti-theft system, an XM Satellite Radio-ready system, iPod and MP3 capability, Bluetooth and OnStar with 4G LTE and Wi-Fi hotspot readiness. Power windows, door locks, remote keyless entry, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, as well as power mirrors and automatic headlamps round out the generous standards list. Optional equipment on the LS trim includes deep-tinted glass and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The LT trim features HID headlights, power driver seat, steering-wheel audio controls, a remote starter system and a power sunroof as optional equipment. A blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert is also available. The top-of-the-line Premier trim includes a power liftgate, Bose speaker system and heated leather seats. With all this standard equipment, the Premier can also be outfitted with a navigation system, a power sunroof and 18- or 19-inch machine aluminum wheels. A Confidence and Convenience Package II adds Low Speed Forward Automatic Braking, heated steering wheel, and Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning as well as Forward collision warning, Surround Vision, and IntelliBeam headlights.
