Dec
25
The Equinox shares its basic design with the Pontiac Torrent and rugged Suzuki XL-7. It’s comfortable and roomy, although a new Sport model has a rather trucklike ride on marginal roads with its stiffer sports suspension. Front- or all-wheel drive are offered.
The base LS and higher-line LT and LTZ models have a 3.4-liter V- 6 with 185 horsepower that provides decent performance.
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The Sport, which I tested, has a 3.6-liter V-6 with 264 horsepower and more torque. This larger V-6 provides good off-the- line acceleration and worry-free 65-75 mph passing. The Sport even beats a BMW X3 and Porsche Cayenne in the 0-60 mph dash.
Both engines are smooth, and even the smaller 3.4 V-6 doesn’t feel taxed or overworked.
Highway fuel economy of either engine is pretty good at an estimated 24 mpg. City economy is 17 for the 3.4 engine and 16 for the 3.6, which is about right for a vehicle that weighs a hefty 3,818 to 3,915 pounds. Only regular-grade gasoline is needed for either engine.
The 3.4 works with a five-speed automatic transmission, and the 3.6 is hooked to an especially responsive six-speed automatic with manual-shift capability.
New Equinox models for 2008 are a luxury LTZ with such items as leather upholstery, power driver’s seat and heated front seats — and the Sport, which has the more potent V-6, special suspension and wide 50-series tires on large 18-inch wheels.
The front-drive Sport was the most responsive Equinox model I tested. It lists at $27,380. It’s priced at $28,980 with all-wheel drive.
Even the entry $22,380 Equinox LS model is pretty well-equipped. Standard are air conditioning, cruise control, AM/FM/CD player, tilt wheel, height-adjustable driver’s seat, fold-flat front passenger seat, sliding and split/folding rear seat and power windows, mirrors and door locks with remote keyless entry.
