As gas prices go up, fuel economy is becoming an increasing concern, even for drivers of sport utility vehicles and crossovers. For this reason, the new 2010 Chevrolet Equinox is designed to deliver outstanding fuel efficiency in an attractive package.
The Equinox will be offered in three trim packages, the LS, LT, and LTZ. All have all wheel drive available, and there are two different engines offered for the Equinox – both direct injected. The 2.4 liter Ecotec l-4 engine is estimated at 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, and delivers 182 horsepower. The 3.0 liter DOHC V6 engine is estimated at 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway, and delivers 255 horsepower. Chevrolet is estimating that about two thirds of their customers will choose the more efficient 2.4 liter engine, although both engines offer a driving range of over 500 miles, which will mean fewer stops for fill ups. The power steering system is also designed to provide improved fuel efficiency – when combined with the 2.4 liter engine; this should save about one full tank of gas every year on average.
Standard safety features include head curtain side air bags, dual front air bags and seat-mounted pelvic/thorax side air bags. Four wheel disc brakes are also standard, as is traction control and stability control provided electronically using the StabiliTrak system. OnStar is standard, as is XM satellite radio. Heated seats are optional and can be activated remotely using the “Smart” remote starting system; the system can also activate the heating and air conditioning system, which could be a real bonus for families that live in harsher climates.
The 2010 Equinox also features a great deal of storage, including an oversize glove compartment, storage bins and room for a laptop under the armrest in the center front. The rear seat is still using the MultiFlex system – it can be moved back to give passengers more leg room or slid all the way to the front to increase the cargo area to over 31 cubic feet. The rear seat features a 60/40 split, and other amenities include hands-free Bluetooth capability, a USB audio port, two DVD screens in the rear, a rear vision camera and premium audio options.
The exterior of the Equinox has been updated as well. While it’s about the same size as the 2009 model, the 2010 model has a more sharply sloping windshield, giving it a sportier look. Three wheel sizes are available – 17 inch, 18 inch, and 19 inch. Overall, the profile is sleeker and more angular – and very attractive. The signature Chevrolet two- tier grille is present, as is the classic gold Bowtie logo. In addition, a number of exterior features were especially designed to improve aerodynamic performance. This includes the wrap-around rear side glass and a sleeker profile achieved by moving the base of the windshield forward about three inches.
When the Equinox was first launched in 2005, it didn’t achieve the popularity that Chevrolet had hoped it would. But now that Chevrolet has improved the fuel efficiency and taken some steps to make the vehicle more attractive both inside and out, perhaps they’ll have more luck gaining traction in the crossover marketplace.
