As sales of full-size SUVs continue to tank, vehicles like the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox will become more important than ever to Chevy's bottom line. Between its overall size and smaller engine, the Equinox crossover delivers far better fuel mileage than the truck-based Tahoe while still offering a sizable cabin.
An often-overlooked model in the Chevrolet lineup, the Equinox should benefit from slightly more recognizable styling this time around. Even with its considerable camouflage, it's clear that the front of the new Equinox will resemble the larger Traverse crossover and Malibu sedan. A shield-style grille is the most obvious change from the current model, although slimmer, more upright headlights will help reshape the front fascia as well.
The profile of the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox appears almost unchanged. It has the same overall shape for the most part except for new split-pane rear windows in place of the current model's single-pane design. It also looks as though the area behind the C-pillars has been extended slightly to accommodate a third row of seats. When the Equinox first debuted as a 2005 model, third-row seats were far less common in compact SUVs, but now this feature is required just to stay competitive in this class of utility vehicles. Expect to see seven-passenger seating as an option.
Another new option for the Equinox will be a four-cylinder engine. Stiffer fuel economy regulations make this a must, as the current V6-only model is far from the most fuel-efficient vehicle in its class. A six-speed automatic should be offered across the board as well, and all-wheel drive will be optional.
Look for the official debut of the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox either late this year or in early 2009, with sales beginning next spring.
See new Chevrolet models
An often-overlooked model in the Chevrolet lineup, the Equinox should benefit from slightly more recognizable styling this time around. Even with its considerable camouflage, it's clear that the front of the new Equinox will resemble the larger Traverse crossover and Malibu sedan. A shield-style grille is the most obvious change from the current model, although slimmer, more upright headlights will help reshape the front fascia as well.
The profile of the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox appears almost unchanged. It has the same overall shape for the most part except for new split-pane rear windows in place of the current model's single-pane design. It also looks as though the area behind the C-pillars has been extended slightly to accommodate a third row of seats. When the Equinox first debuted as a 2005 model, third-row seats were far less common in compact SUVs, but now this feature is required just to stay competitive in this class of utility vehicles. Expect to see seven-passenger seating as an option.
Another new option for the Equinox will be a four-cylinder engine. Stiffer fuel economy regulations make this a must, as the current V6-only model is far from the most fuel-efficient vehicle in its class. A six-speed automatic should be offered across the board as well, and all-wheel drive will be optional.
Look for the official debut of the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox either late this year or in early 2009, with sales beginning next spring.
See new Chevrolet models
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