Overview
The 2012 Chevrolet Equinox was the first crossover ever offered by Chevrolet. It was debuted in 2004 as a 2005 model. Currently it is in its second generation with the current model style. The specs for the vehicle suggest that it should be in the mid-size category for crossovers, but Chevrolet is insisting that it is a compact crossover. There are many standard features you would expect to find in higher end models. The smaller cargo space, 63.7 cubic feet, is one of the disadvantages of the vehicle.
Pricing
Prices for the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox starts out with the standard LS base model at $23,530 and goes to the base of the LTZ at $29,220. Additions like 18-inch and 19-inch chrome-clad alloy wheels, navigation system, sunroof, or lane departure/forward collision warning systems will cause the price to be driven up.
The 2012 Chevrolet Equinox comes in a few different trims including: LS, LT, and LTZ.
Specs
The 2012 Chevrolet Equinox LS includes 17-inch alloy wheels among other standards. Also included there’s a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, Bluetooth, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel with audio controls, air-conditioning, a partial power driver seat (height adjustment only), a sliding and reclining rear seat, cloth upholstery, full power accessories, cruise control, satellite radio, OnStar, and an auxiliary audio jack.
The Equinox LT trim includes everything in the LS along with iPod/USB audio interface, roof rack side rails, premium cloth upholstery, upgraded sound system with a 7-inch touch screen, heated outside mirrors, a leather-wrapped steering wheel tinted rear windows, and a rearview camera.
Adding to the LT, the next up 2LT model gives you an eight-speaker Pioneer sound system, automatic climate control, heated front seats, remote start, fog lamps, an eight-way power driver seat, and an auto-dimming mirror.
The LTZ offers everything in the above mentioned trims with the addition of rear parking sensors, perforated leather upholstery, a power lift gate, automatic headlights, and driver memory settings.
The 2012 Chevrolet Equinox offers a standard 2.4L four cylinder engine which pumps out 182 horsepower. The six speed automatic transmission uses front wheel drive with the option to get all wheel drive. The ability to go from zero to 60 in 9.3 seconds is decent for the weight class. The upgrade to a V-6 3.0L engine offers 264 horsepower with the ability to go from zero to 60 in 8.3 seconds.
Review
The 2012 Chevrolet Equinox is a good crossover vehicle for those looking for a heavy duty entry level vehicle. Affordable pricing makes it comparable to the Hyundai Tucson and the Ford Escape. The Equinox allows you to not only have good styling but also offers a well-appointed interior and great fuel economy. Those with families will enjoy the ability to carry around the whole clan while exploring the city or any other destinations. The 2012 Equinox is definitely worth checking out if speed and luxury are not at the top of your list.
Safety
The safety of the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox starts with standard antilock brakes. It also features front driver’s seat airbags, side curtain airbags, traction and stability control, and OnStar for additional safety. Parking sensors allow you to be able to park without the risk of hitting another car.
The braking power allows you to come to a stop from 60 mph to zero after 122 feet. Government crash tests put the vehicle at a four star rating out of five, and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) rates the vehicle as “good” for side crash and frontal-offset crash testing.
