2008 Chevrolet Equinox [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 40 Equinox reviews and test drives.
Chevrolet Equinox - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Chevrolet Equinox ranks 18 out of 27 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 40 published reviews and test drives of the Chevrolet Equinox, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Equinox delivers two powerful V6 engine choices, crisp styling, and an interior noteworthy for its space and comfort. However, the steering and handling are not quite up to par -- rendering the Equinox a ranking in the bottom half of its class.
For 2008, the Equinox gets two new trim levels. The ultra-performance Sport model boasts a V6 engine with an extra 79 horsepower and a new six-speed automatic transmission. The luxury-minded LTZ model comes with upscale interior and exterior touches. "This car has a subtle refinement of its own," says the Boston Globe. "It's not much shorter than either a Ford Explorer or Chevrolet TrailBlazer, and yet it feels like a much smaller, gentler vehicle. That's probably because, from its base, it is built more like a car, with unibody construction instead of the truck-like, body-on-frame architecture of the other two."
Reviewers are impressed with the Equinox's fuel economy, but the SUV is the subject of much criticism for its steering and handling, even in the new Sport version. Many test drivers feel steering does not provide adequate response. At the same time, many appreciate the expanded cargo space and the V6 engine's acceleration.
The Equinox comes in several trims -- the base LS, mid-level LT, luxurious LTZ, and performance-minded Sport. The Equinox comes in either front- or all-wheel drive.
- "The Equinox Sport, and its counterpart, the Pontiac Torrent GXP, add some genuine spark to serviceable but otherwise dull vehicles. Good for General Motors." -- Orlando Sentinel
- "So this is an affordable people and cargo hauler from Chevy and a gigantic improvement from its old Trackers. This is a solid, well-mannered truck, but the test model was nothing fancy." -- Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Equinox Performance - 7.0 (Good)
The majority of test drivers of the 2008 Chevrolet Equinox feel that the engine in the SUV performs quite well, though there is general agreement that the steering and handling are not on par with the best vehicles in its class. Consequently, the Equinox ranks in the middle of its class. The Morning Call explains: "The steering system is GM's new electric steering system, which is intended to provide precise control and performance. However, it falls short and needs a bit of finesse. Steering is dead-on center and feather light at cruising speeds, yet can suddenly become heavy when parking." Continue with our full Performance review to learn why test drivers describe the Equinox's steering as numb. continue
Equinox Exterior - 7.6 (Good)
The majority of reviewers find the Equinox's exterior styling agreeable, leading to a ranking in the top half of the class. U.S. News' Rick Newman deems it "Hot. The Equinox is a bit bulky, but it has a streamlined and aerodynamic look -- for an SUV." Continue with our full Exterior review to learn why the large Equinox is still considered a compact SUV, or check out our Photo Gallery to see it for yourself. continue
Equinox Interior - 7.7 (Good)
Almost all test drivers applaud the 2008 Chevrolet Equinox's interior, including its comfortable seats, tranquil noise level, and pleasant styling and materials. The praise propels the SUV to an interior ranking near the top of its class. "General Motors is making it a point to upgrade the fit and finish of its interiors, and it works here," says the Boston Globe. "There is still plastic and molded seams where you might get stitched leather in far more expensive vehicles, but the overall effect is one of quality." Continue with our full Interior review to learn why reviewers especially like the look of the interior, or check out our interior photos. continue
Equinox Safety - 9.3 (Excellent)
The 2008 Chevrolet Equinox does very well in federal government crash tests. It also comes with plenty of accident avoidance features, including Traction Control. Continue with our full Safety review to learn why the rear seat is especially safe for up to three children. continue
Equinox Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 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 basic warranty. Continue with our full Reliability review to learn about Chevrolet's new lengthy powertrain warranty. continue