During my run to the slopes, the snow fell like confetti at a frenzied wedding. Thanks to the stability system, traction control and AWD, I encountered no forward or lateral slippage while negotiating the snow-covered winding road to and from the hill. It's too bad GM can't see its way clear to providing the optional, front to rear, roof-mounted head curtain side-impact airbags with rollover protection as standard equipment as well.

The Equinox always provides you with good traction.

Equinox Economics
The Equinox is built in Canada however with an AWD starting price of $29,125, there's no Canuck discount. My nicely equipped AWD LT version tallied $36,670 by the time the financial dust settled. That's a fairly hefty price considering a fully loaded, AWD Hyundai Tucson with leather upholstery can be sourced for $30,795. Granted, a navigation system is not available in the Tucson, which is a smaller vehicle. But even its big brother, the luxurious, refined AWD Santa Fe GLS can be obtained fully-dressed for $34,295.

Financial comparisons aside, Chevy's product is a competent machine that's nice to drive or simply ride in. It shouldn't be dismissed prematurely by those seeking a moderately-sized SUV crossover.


Pleasing to the eye
Comfortable car-like ride
Plenty-o leg and headroom
Standard equipment includes StabiliTrak


Engine is aging- albeit gracefully
Inferior interior finishing
Slushy handling


Side curtain airbags not standard
Price escalates rapidly when loaded up


Photo Credit : Rob Rothwell