![]() ![]() Stepping up to the LT and Premier models add more standard equipment, and some available packages allow buyers to personalize their Equinox as desired. It’s worth mentioning that this price also includes freight and air tax, something not typically considered in the manufacturer’s suggested retail price. The Equinox starts at the base LS trim, which stickers for $26,995 in front-drive guise. The latter three of these are Canadian exclusive standard features, designed to keep buyers comfortable during the colder months. Both smartphone connectivity options are standard equipment, along with push button start, a rear view camera, heated mirrors, heated front seats, and a remote starter. The majority of the line also has the latest infotainment tech with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and this Equinox is no exception. GM is ahead of nearly every other manufacturer by implementing OnStar connectivity services and 4G-LTE WiFi hotspots in every single vehicle they sell, from the base $9,995 Chevrolet Spark ( reviewed here) right up to the Cadillac brand. The interior overall is still rather grey and looks drab in direct sunlight, but it’s nicer than many competitors and the driving position is pretty good. Fit and finish throughout the cabin is quite nice, with soft touch materials on the dashboard and premium seats, on both cloth and leather-equipped trims. All models get a 7.0” touchscreen for infotainment as standard equipment, while higher trims get an 8.0” setup. Reflective of other recently introduced Chevrolet models such as the new Cruze ( reviewed here), the Equinox’s interior is an equal balance between form and function. Save for the Mazda CX-5 ( previewed here), the Equinox is the only vehicle in the segment that’s available with a diesel powertrain at any trim level.Įnough about engines and numbers though where buyers will find more merit to the Equinox is after seeing the interior. The regular gasoline models will be shortly followed by a diesel-powered Equinox, with a 1.6L turbodiesel four pushing 136 horsepower and 236 lb-ft., with fuel ratings as low as 5.7L/100km. For those who really want to conserve fuel though, Chevrolet has something for you. Over the course of this first drive, in mixed driving with generous use of the turbocharger, we still averaged 8.0L/100km with the 1.5T AWD. ![]() The 2.0T model is 10.2L/100km city, 8.4L/100km highway, and 9.4L/100km combined when equipped with AWD. The FWD model gets slightly better mileage, but most Canadians will want the confidence of all-wheel-drive in their crossover. The 1.5T model with all-wheel-drive is rated at 9.8L/100km city, 7.9L/100km highway for a combined rating of 8.9L/100km. This will contribute to fuel savings, as the AWD will likely remain disabled in most situations. Something that is essentially a segment exclusive is a button to lock the Equinox into front-drive mode when AWD isn’t required. This motor is comparable to the turbo variants of the Kia Sportage and Ford Escape ( reviewed here), and is hooked up to a nine-speed automatic. Available after spring 2017 is an optional 2.0L turbocharged four pushing 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft. The 1.5T motor is coupled to a six-speed automatic gearbox, and can be had in either front or all-wheel-drive setups. Constant remarks were made regarding the overall quietness of the interior and how buttery smooth this powertrain is. The drive routes consisted of a significant portion of highway driving around the Niagara region, where we also experienced some bumper-to-bumper traffic. ![]() Similar to the new Honda CR-V ( reviewed here), the 1.5T Equinox is capable of delivering a very smooth driving experience both around town and out on the highway. of torque, which is an increase of 31 lb-ft. The one most Canadians will buy is powered by a turbocharged 1.5L inline four-cylinder engine. One of the biggest advantages of the new Equinox is that it’s 400 pounds lighter than its predecessor, and uses smaller displacement engines with forced induction. We were invited to Niagara on the Lake to spend a couple of days driving the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox in a variety of trim levels, with the volume-seller powertrain. Having seen its debut in 2004 as a 2005 model year vehicle, the Equinox is now in its third generation. GM has always been a bit ahead of some rivals, as their compact Equinox has been around for just over a decade. Justifiably so, because as the baby boomer generation ages and young professionals find themselves more and more attracted to practicality over style, it’s this class of vehicle that people want to spend their money on. NIAGARA FALLS, ON – The reality of the current automotive market is, the crossover segment is booming.
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