2007 Chevrolet Equinox [ 2008 ]
Chevrolet Equinox
Overall Score - 7.7 (Good)
The Equinox delivers a powerful V6 engine, crisp styling, and an interior noteworthy for its space and comfort. However, the steering, handling and quality are not up to standard with the best competitors in its class. If you're in the market for an affordable compact SUV, you should also consider the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, or the somewhat larger Honda Pilot and GMC Acadia.
The 2007 Chevrolet Equinox earns high ratings from most reviewers for its strong V6 engine, interior space, quiet cabin and competitive price. Edmunds observes, "It's peppy; rides nice and quiet; has a spacious cabin with a few trick features; and is reasonably priced. It's certainly worth consideration if you're looking for an urban runabout with a flexible cabin design and high safety ratings."
Reviewers like the fuel economy of the Equinox, but the vehicle is the subject of much criticism for the performance of its steering system, which many test drivers feel does not provide good road feel or adequate response, and which MSN even calls "slow."
At the same time, many appreciate the expanded cargo space and the V6 engine's acceleration. "You'll like this SUV if you need power and room," says Kelley Blue Book. "The Equinox offers the most passenger and cargo space in its class, as well as the most powerful standard engine in the entire compact SUV category. The muscular good looks, comfy seats and long list of optional features are just icing on the cake." Overall, reviewers enjoy many attributes of the Equinox. "The Equinox is a hit, thanks to its attractive styling, practical and roomy interior and competitive price," says the Detroit Free Press, while at the same time acknowledging the vehicle may not always win out over its competitors in the highly competitive compact SUV category.
In terms of resale, Kelley Blue Book projects the Equinox to retain an average resale value. "The attractively priced Equinox is nicely assembled and painted," says MSN, adding, "Count on it to be a long-term success." IntelliChoice gives the 2007 Equinox a rating of "average" for its predicted five-year total cost of ownership, compared to other vehicles in its class. However, it also lists the Equinox as a "Best in Class" winner and top choice for 2007 "Lowest Ownership Costs" among midsize crossover vehicles.
Equinox Performance - 7.2 (Good)
The majority of test drivers feel that the Equinox's engine performs quite well, though there is general agreement that the steering and handling are not on par with the best vehicles in its class. "The V6 has plenty of punch and feels more robust than its relatively meager output ratings might suggest," says Edmunds. continue
Equinox Exterior - 7.6 (Good)
Reviewers generally agree that the Equinox is a large vehicle for its class. "In compact SUV terms, the Chevy Equinox is enormous," says Kelley Blue Book. The majority of reviewers also find the exterior styling agreeable and attractive. continue
Equinox Interior - 7.6 (Good)
Almost all test drivers applaud the Equinox's interior, including its comfortable seats, tranquil interior noise level and pleasant styling and materials. "The quiet interior is roomy and functional, with an upscale appearance," says MSN. "There is comfortable room for four six-footers, with an especially roomy back seat." continue
Equinox Safety - 9.1 (Excellent)
The federal government gives the 2007 Equinox five out of five stars for performance in front and side impact crashes, and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gives the Equinox a score of "Good," its highest rating, for performance in frontal offset crash tests. continue
Equinox Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)
The 2007 Chevrolet Equinox reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Chevrolet offers a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty on the Equinox. continue
