Overview & Reviews

Part of a growing segment of plus-sized small crossover SUVs, the Chevrolet Equinox splits the difference between compact and midsize utility vehicles and offers roomy accommodations in a five-passenger layout. Like other vehicles in its class, the Equinox emphasizes style, amenities and day-to-day practicality over more traditional SUV attributes. In short, the Chevy Equinox is a fine choice for commuting to work or transporting pets, but it's not suited for towing, or anything more rugged than a gravel road.

Although the Equinox has always had a roomy interior and an easy-driving nature, the plain styling and low-quality interior materials in earlier models are none too impressive by today's standards. Later versions of this Chevrolet crossover have made big strides in quality and are available with more desirable features and engine choices.

User Reviews:

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  Maintenace Headache - 2006 Chevrolet Equinox
  By Problems R Us - July 27 - 10:28 pm

  We bought it in 2005 and it was fine for about two years. The tires barely lasted two years, then the rotors warped and had to be replaced. Thought it was over, then nightmare started with the ABS engaging under normal driving conditions. Sound familiar, well its a poorly designed system for the speed sensor. It means you will need to replace the complete wheel hub assembly and sensor....$390.00 just for the part. Better check the centre hanger bracket bearing for the rear axle on the AWD version, that fell apart too! Good luck finding that part. Yeah, its only three years old! Did I mention the heater box fell apart...no heat...a $90.00 part but $1000.00+ for labour to get it out!!

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  Equinox is underated - 2006 Chevrolet Equinox
  By Jim Eaton - July 25 - 8:16 am

  I purchased my Equinox after a failed attempt at downsizing from a mini-van. I first tried a Cobalt, then a Malibu, and finaly settled on the Equinox. On our first long trip (1000+ miles) we averaged 26.5mpg. The average had been slightly higher until we drove through the mountains to visit Crater Lake. I should note that we purchased the Equinox after considering a number of mini-vans. The mini-vans were discounted because of their pricing and poor economy.

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  unsure - 2006 Chevrolet Equinox
  By Brenda S IL/TX - July 24 - 11:36 am

  I have enjoyed my vehicle from day one, but, I am unsure about the design of the windshield, (angle), I have had to replace my windshield 3 times and need a 4th due to tiny rocks that have come from other cars on the road. I have owned other vehicle that when a small rock hits the windshield it MIGHT chip it but with the Equinox as I stated before its almost a sure thing that I will have to replace the whole windshield because the chips spreads immediately. Another thing that kind of makes me have doubts is the blindspots it has. I am almost done paying for it and I cant say will buy another.

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  Not so great - 2005 Chevrolet Equinox
  By Steve - July 23 - 11:50 pm

  I bought this 2005 with only 12,000 miles on it. I have it up to 24000 now. I just brought it into the shop this morning. When braking hard, the steering wheel shimmys uncontrolably. The transmission is worthless. It gives a lag and then shifts hard when you slow down to 15 mph and then accelerate again. Other times it revs up to 6000 rpm before it upshifts from 4th to 5th. When not moving and you try to turn the steering wheel, it feels like there is no power steering. The check oil light seems to stay on too long when you first start out. It has the turning radius of an aircraft carrier. Just pulling into a parking spot is a challenge. Blind spots galore.

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  Not all its cracked up to be - 2005 Chevrolet Equinox
  By Yvonne M. Spencer - July 22 - 11:10 pm

  From day one, I have had nothing but problems. Needed new struts and mounts almost immediately, then it was blown fuses in the front cigarette lighter which in turn caused the small car light with a wrench in it to come on in the dash display (was told this was a short r/t the cigatette lighters blown fuse), and then the pump in the windshield washer compartment is shot and I need a new one. When I back up and turn the wheel hard to the right the car makes this awful groan noise, but they say nothing is wrong. This is all within the first few months of owning the vehicle. Cannot wait to dump this junk.

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  Hope it floats - 2007 Chevrolet Equinox
  By dachismom - July 20 - 11:28 pm

  I purchased this car after driving a Focus for 9 years. I had it for 5 days and then it rained. I thought I WAS IN A BATHTUB. It has been at the dealer for over a week waiting for parts to come in. I think I know why I got such a good deal. Hopefully it floats.....

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  LOVE IT!!!!! - 2005 Chevrolet Equinox
  By MAXINE FOX - July 11 - 11:58 pm

  I always envied Lexus suvs. But your only paying for the price. I purchased a used 05 w/32k miles on it (a one owner older man), with leather seats and pretty much the upgraded package (not the highest) and its a great car. Its gold but a Nice gold. I test drove about 6 different types of suvs (comp to the equinox) and it was the nicest for the money. The car rides so smooth compared to my Ford explorer and you have a ton of room. I love the pic nic table in the back and some of the other perks that come with it. If you are in the market for a smaller yet medium size suv drive everything but the equinox then save it for last--- you are most likely going to know that its the suv for u

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  Worth the wait of 8 weeks - 2010 Chevrolet Equinox
  By cv - July 9 - 3:50 pm

  I really like this vehicle, driving it is a pleasure. Very noise free, smooth riding, comfortable and drives great. I arrive at my destination relaxed and ready to get back in and drive again. People come up and ask me about it, must be catching on. The Cyber grey metallic looks very good on the Equinox. The 4 cylinder is strong enough if you are use to high reving engines, and let it rev.

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  7,500 mile follow-up - 2010 Chevrolet Equinox
  By CSB - July 8 - 8:23 pm

  Still happy with this purchase. I have downgraded the mileage mark to "8." I have yet to take a long trip without ridiculous traffic (D.C to Outer Banks NC), but did get 29mpg fully loaded down at 75mph for about a one hour drive. Ratings r based on driving at 60mph on highway? The computer says Im averaging 20.5 mpg in northern VA suburban driving. Dont know what to make of all of the conflicting mileage reports. These Equinoxes cant all be made differently -right? I think I will try determining my mileage the old fashioned way to see if the computer is off. Maybe I have a heavy foot. I averaged 21mpg with my Mazda 6 (4cyl.) Anyway unless you get a Prius, whats 3 to 4 mpg?

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  So far, so good - 2007 Chevrolet Equinox
  By Guardfamily - July 7 - 10:53 am

  We bought it because our family was growing and we needed a little extra room for the family car. Weve been really pleased with how well its done so far. We recently took a roadtrip to the mountains and I averaged 28 MPG with the AC on. Usually I get 21-22 in the city. Just a few downsides. So far, we are pleased with the purchase.