Affordable, reliable, long-lasting and comfortable are all words that can describe Chevrolet SUVs for 2013. Plus, this manufacturer adds in a dash of style and generous helping of luxury. Who says you can’t own a high-quality vehicle at a budget-friendly price? Although some of Chevrolet’s SUVs do get up there in pricing quite a bit when packages and options are added, they at least offer vehicles with lower starting MSRPs, so nearly anyone can afford the convenience and versatili... (full review continues below)
Affordable, reliable, long-lasting and comfortable are all words that can describe Chevrolet SUVs for 2013. Plus, this manufacturer adds in a dash of style and generous helping of luxury. Who says you can’t own a high-quality vehicle at a budget-friendly price? Although some of Chevrolet’s SUVs do get up there in pricing quite a bit when packages and options are added, they at least offer vehicles with lower starting MSRPs, so nearly anyone can afford the convenience and versatility of owning a sport utility vehicle.
Competing in the saturated compact crossover segment is the Chevrolet Equinox, which manages to be a very strong leader in terms of performance and style. Last year’s 3.0-liter V6 optional engine has been replaced by a 3.6-liter V6, but the standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder remains a preferred choice for its exceptional fuel economy.
The low starting MSRP of $23,755 is very attractive to the average buyer, and it is available in three trims, including LS, LT and LTZ. New available features for 2013 include smartphone app integration, a revised touchscreen interface, remote garage door opener and rear seat entertainment system. This roomy five passenger vehicle goes toe-to-toe with Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Santa Fe and of course, its cousin, the GMC Terrain.
In the large crossover segment, and competing with the Mazda CX-9 and Ford Flex is the Chevrolet Traverse, which is fully redesigned from the inside-out. A sedan-like nose replaces the iconic Chevy split grille, and more defined and angled lights give it a more upscale appearance. Inside, lines become more fluid and surfaces get sculpted, but cargo capacity remains the same, which is a key selling point for the Traverse at a generous 116 cubic feet.
The 281 horsepower 3.6-liter V6 engine offers great acceleration and towing, and is the only engine for all four trim levels. The LS gives you the basics, plus OnStar telematics, rearview camera and a 6.5-inch touchscreen display. For 18-inch alloy wheels, remote ignition, wood grain interior trim and rear parking sensors, you will upgrade to the 1LT. Then 2LT gives you a power rear lift gate, the MyLink infotainment interface and power folding mirrors. For all the bells and whistles, LTZ tacks on 20-inch wheels, a heated steering wheel, blind spot monitoring and a long list of other luxurious features.
Of course, Chevrolet’s most well-known SUV is the Tahoe. This vehicle can seat up to nine passengers, tow 8,500 pounds and accelerate zero to 60 mph in only 8.5 seconds. Its 5.3-liter V8 engine motivates the vehicle with 320 horsepower, so it is easy to forget just how big this vehicle actually is. It comes in LS, LT and LTZ trims, with a starting MSRP of $39,080. Its primary competition is Toyota Sequoia and Ford Expedition.
Those looking for a more environmentally friendly option will appreciate the 2013 Tahoe Hybrid. Seating for eight plus surprisingly good fuel-economy makes it a popular pick for those needing a large and powerful vehicle. With a starting MSRP of $52,295 though, it does make it one of Chevrolet’s most expensive vehicles.
Last in the lineup is the 2013 Suburban, a vehicle the population has grown to identify as a leader in cargo, passenger and towing capabilities. It seats up to nine, with more than enough room to spare, and boasts an overall cargo capacity of 137 cubic feet behind the front seats. The 1500 is equipped with a 5.3-liter V8 while the 2500 gets a 6.0-liter V8 that can tow as much as 9,600 pounds, making it best in class.