Crossovers
2010 Chevrolet Equinox LS Front-Wheel Drive
What it Is: An entry-level small crossover utility vehicle.
Who it's For: Families who need no more than two LATCH points.
What's Hot: Best-in-class highway fuel economy.
What's Not: Base price is more expensive than some competitors.
How It Got Its Score: The Equinox LS scores highest of the four models on Family Car Review thanks to its excellent fuel economy and competitive price.
The 2010 Chevrolet Equinox covers a wide range of models, from base LS to mid-level LT and finally the more luxurious LTZ. The broad range of models and features, plus the choice of four and six-cylinder engines means that the Equinox competes against both compact crossovers like the Honda CR-V and larger two-row crossovers like the Ford Edge. The standard four-cylinder engine offers a distinct advantage over the available V-6 in terms of fuel economy while still delivering decent acceleration and power for freeway passing. However, if you tow a small trailer, such as a pair of watercraft or a small camper, then the V-6 offers the added power you'll need. Unless you live in areas prone to bad weather, you can skip the all-wheel drive, since the standard front-wheel drive and stability control offer a wide safety envelope. It also helps the Equinox cost less up front and improves fuel economy. Premium features available on the Chevy Equinox include leather seats, a navigation system, GM's OnStar system, dual DVD screens that flip down from the front seatbacks, and a power hatch with an adjustable maximum height, good news for shorter drivers.
The Equinox offers a good mix of style, functionality and utility. There is plenty of room in the back for a stroller and diaper bags with room left over for a full load of groceries. The array of standard safety features is impressive, as are the NHTSA and IIHS crash test scores.
Specifications
Price |
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| MSRP |
$22,440 |
| Destination |
$745 |
| |
| |
| |
|
Other Models (Base Price) |
LT1 ($23,360)
LT2 ($25,445)
LTZ ($28,045) |
Mechanical
Engine Size |
2.4 liters |
|
Engine Type |
Inline-4 |
|
Horsepower |
182 hp |
|
Torque |
172 lb.-ft. |
|
Fuel |
Regular Unleaded |
|
Transmission |
6-Speed Automatic |
Fuel Economy
EPA City |
22 mpg |
|
EPA Highway |
32 mpg |
|
EPA Combined |
26 mpg |
Utility
Vehicle Type |
Small SUV |
|
Family Friendliness |
8.4 |
|
Doors |
Four |
|
Seat Rows |
Two |
|
Passengers |
Five |
|
LATCH Positions |
Two |
|
Cargo Space |
31.4 cu. ft. |
|
Max Cargo Space |
63.7 cu. ft. |
Safety
NHTSA Driver Front |
5 Stars |
|
NHTSA Passenger Front |
5 Stars |
|
NHTSA Driver Side |
5 Stars |
|
NHTSA Rear Passenger Side |
5 Stars |
|
IIHS Front |
Good |
|
IIHS Side |
Good |
|
IIHS Rear |
Good |
|
Stability Control |
Standard |
|
Traction Control |
Standard |
|
Brake Assist |
Standard |
|
Side Airbags |
Thorax and Curtain |
|
Collision Avoidance |
Not Available |
|
Active Cruise Control |
Not Available |
|
Photos
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