Inside the New 2017 Chevy Equinox

Chevrolet first debuted the Equinox in 2005, and nearly every year it has been in production, sales have grown.

Over the years, the Equinox continues to be updated to include the latest features in safety, comfort, and convenience, in addition to ensuring the exterior and interior keep a stylish, modern look.

Despite it being in the competitive Crossover SUV class alongside the Jeep Cherokee, Honda CR-V, and Ford Escape, the Chevrolet Equinox reviews are consistently solid from both professionals and owners alike.

The Chevy Equinox model for 2017 is available in four trims: L, LS, LT, and Premier. There are several options available on each trim. The LT is also available with two packages: the Midnight Package and Sport Package.

With more ability to customize the 2017 Equinox, you can build and price the crossover vehicle you truly want.

Standard Features

The 2017 Chevrolet Equinox is a Crossover SUV that seats five comfortably. With a wheelbase of 112.5 inches and a track width of just over 62 inches, the Equinox has a stable base that will provide a comfortable, even ride.

The interior of the Equinox is comfortable and roomy, and each seat comes with plenty of head and leg space to be comfortable. If you need a lot of cargo space, there is over 31 cubic feet of trunk space. With the second row folded down, there is over 63 cubic feet of storage space.

Part of the popularity of the Chevrolet Equinox in previous model years is due to the competitive and reasonable price.

For 2017, they continue the trend of affordability. The L trim has a starting MRSP of $23,100, while the Premier trim has a starting MRSP of $30,040.

While the price is competitive, car buyers won’t have to sacrifice amenities and quality even for the base model. Every trim, including the L model of the 2017 Chevy Equinox has numerous features including:

• Rear view camera
• Daytime running lamps
• Remote keyless entry
• Air conditioning/manual climate control
• Cruise control

Performance Features

For drivers looking for a capable vehicle that has solid acceleration and power while also providing great handling and a smooth ride, the new 2017 Chevrolet Equinox is a great option.

The Equinox comes equipped with a 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder engine that provides 182 horsepower and can tow up to 1,500 pounds.

On the LT and Premier trims, if you are seeking a bit more power, there is an optional 3.6-liter, 6-cylinder engine available that gets 301 horsepower and is capable of towing 3,500 pounds.

Both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. While front wheel drive is standard, all-wheel drive is available on the LS, LT, and Premier editions.

Seventeen-inch aluminum wheels are also standard for the 2017 Equinox except for the Premier, which is fitted with 18-inch aluminum wheels.

Safety Features

The designers at Chevrolet understand that safety is one of the highest priorities drivers have when seeking a new vehicle.

Fortunately, there are a wide array of safety features that come standard or are available options for the 2017 Equinox. All Chevrolet Equinoxes are equipped with the following:

• Passenger-sensing airbags
• Rear vision camera
• StabiliTrak and traction control
• Child safety locks
• Hill start-assist brakes

The Driver Confidence Package is an available upgrade for the Premier model, and it has some of the most popular and sought-after safety features. The Driver Confidence Package includes:

• Forward collision alert
• Lane departure warning
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Rear park assist
• Side blind zone alert

Interior Features

Not only does the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox have a powerful drive train and excellent safety features, it provides a comfortable ride that is great for long trips and daily driving.

With convenience options and entertainment features that are sure to make any drive more enjoyable, the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox is an enjoyable vehicle to drive.

The audio system includes an AM/FM stereo with MP3 sync, and it also includes a 7-inch touchscreen display, 6-speaker audio, auxiliary and USB ports for great connectivity.

Remote keyless entry, front bucket seats covered in premium cloth, and a telescoping steering wheel column all add to the enjoyable ride.

The Premier model goes above and beyond to create a luxurious driving experience with heated leather seats and steering wheel, automatic climate control, and remote start.

There are also multiple packages available to customize your car. For drivers that choose the LT trim, the Convenience package includes:

• Automatic climate control
• Remote start
• Leather interior
• Power sunroof
• 8-way power front and heated seats

The Premier trim has the Enhanced Convenience package available which allows you to receive all of the features of the LT’s Convenience package with a rear power liftgate.

Both the LT and Premier models are eligible for the Technology package inclusion which adds Chevrolet MyLink with navigation and also a Pioneer 8-speaker sound system.

The Competition

The crossover SUV class is a competitive one that includes the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Dodge Journey, and Kia Sorento. The 2017 Chevrolet Equinox holds up well against its competitors, providing stronger performance and more horsepower than many of the other vehicles.

It provides a great value for the MSRP, and with several trims and packages available, you have numerous customization options. Additional benefits compared to its competition include the 3,500-pound towing capability with the V-6 engine option and ample rear passenger and cargo room.

Fuel Economy

According to the EPA, the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox gets 21/31 MPG (city/highway) for the front wheel drive vehicles. If you choose an Equinox with all-wheel drive, you will experience slightly lower mileage.

However, with its powerful engine and solid weight, it gets competitive efficiency in its class, and with the 18-gallon tank, you won’t find yourself having to stop by the gas pumps all the time.

Pros and Cons

The Chevrolet Equinox has a heavier curb weight than many of the other SUV crossovers in its class, which cuts down on its acceleration ability with the 4-cylinder engine.

However, overall, if you are seeking a solid, well-designed crossover SUV, the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox does a great job of combining performance with comfort, making it a great option for families, but also for those who need a vehicle capable of doing some utility and work functions.