Yahoo Finance 2018 Chevrolet Equinox Sheds Weight, Gains Turbo Engines
The next-generation Chevrolet Equinox replaces one of the oldest models in the brand’s lineup, bringing tidier dimensions, the latest infotainment and safety technology, two small displacement turbocharged engines, and a diesel choice.
Since its distant 2010 redesign, the Equinox competed in the small-SUV segment by being a bit larger than its price-point rivals. That size brought about a compromise in weight and fuel economy, which was more on par with midsized models.
Chevrolet is tweaking the formula with the 2018 Equinox, tightening the length by about 5 inches while roughly preserving the other dimensions. Moving to a new platform aided a 400-pound weight reduction that should bolster performance, agility, and fuel efficiency.
Under the hood, there will be a choice of three all-aluminum four-cylinder engines, starting with a 170-hp, 1.5-liter with a six-speed automatic transmission. The uplevel choice is a 252-hp, 2.0-liter mated to a nine-speed automatic. New to the segment is a 136-hp, 1.6-liter diesel engine that promises an estimated 40 mpg on the highway.
On the safety front, there is a long roster of available equipment, akin to what is offered on other all-new GM models. For active safety, forward-collision warning and low-speed automatic braking, lane-keep assist with lane-departure warning, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic warning will be offered, using camera and radar to assess road hazards. A “safety alert seat” can warn the driver by vibrating.
Other safety aids include a surround-view display and rear seat reminder, which we’ve seen on the GMC Acadia can issue a warning when the car predicts that someone, such as a child or pet, may be left in a parked vehicle. Plus, the teen driver feature will be offered, allowing parents to set certain restrictions and review a report card to monitor driving behavior.
The Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system will be offered in 7-inch and 8-inch forms, each with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. OnStar telematics and mobile WiFi will be optional.
The 2018 Chevrolet Equinox goes on sale in the first quarter of 2017.
As the weeks count down to the all-new model reaching showrooms, expect significant discounts on the outgoing 2016 Equinox. Already the Equinox is seeing average transactions at about $2,400 off MSRP.
The current Equinox is a mediocre vehicle, though with the right deal it would have understandable appeal to a Chevy-inclined buyer thanks to its roomy rear seat, easy access, quiet cabin, comfortable ride, and available technology. Neither engine is ideal, with the four-cylinder feeling underpowered when moving the hefty SUV, while the V6 doesn’t quite live up to its specs.
Read the complete 2016 Chevrolet Equinox road test.
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