The Chevrolet Equinox is one of those vehicles that fails to stand out in a crowd. As far as compact SUVs go, the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail and Ford Escape are better known and also more highly regarded. The thing is that the Equinox and Pontiac Torrent are very popular and for a number of good reasons.

Slightly bland, the Equinox's styling would benefit from a "torrential" refreshing.

First off, its price range is on par with all of the above-mentioned competitors. The Equinox has all the creature comforts one would expect from this type of vehicle as well as having the necessary capabilities for gear and light off-roading.

Essentially, the Equinox is a sensible and comfortable vehicle to get around in. It is roomy, reasonably well assembled and attractive enough (the Torrent more so). The level of provided equipment is on par with its competition; it is a good package.

Only one problem though. The standard 3.4L V6 is the compact SUV's Achilles heel. It suffers from old technology, a lack of refinement and performance. In short, 90% of the competition's 4-cylinder engines are as or more competent, more economical and satisfying to use. The 5-speed autobox is a smooth operator, like all of GM's transmissions, but also suffers from old technology. Combined, the powertrain is adequate at best.

Generally speaking, the Equinox's road manners are surprisingly agreeable. The ride is comfortable, far from sporty, although it still provides a good balance of stability and confidence.

The Equinox has a simple yet effective dashboard.

The Equinox surprises by its simplicity however it must put up with a few antiquities. Should GM a refined 4-cylinder as a base engine and a more-polished V6 as an option, I would have little or nothing negative to say about the Equinox.


Photo Credit : Philippe Champoux