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.
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:Rob Rothwell
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| 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.
 |
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:Rob Rothwell
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