Tag Archives: 2014 Chevrolet Equinox
2014 Chevrolet Equinox: Essentially Unchanged
Ever since the Chevrolet introduced its Equinox way back in the year 2010, we have been its fans because of several reasons like its good looks, practicality and comfort, which make it not ours but many other reviewers’ favorite small crossover. But if make a close comparison to some of the recently launched or we can say refurbished SUVs’ in the market, we found that 2014 Chevrolet Equinox is not as much desirable as compared to its rivals or even not the same what it used to be, but it still has that same power and persona that will surely make you take a look at it while you go out to buy a new small SUV.
The best part about the 2014 Chevrolet Equinox is its powerful V6 engine, which has always been a strong point for Chevy. If we go by the latest trend, we found that most of the SUV makers are dropping V6 engine from their small SUVs’ due to concerns like fuel economy and lack of customer demand, which has again become a strong point for Equinox as well its GMC twin Terrain because in 2014 there are only few models of small SUVs available that are offering grunt six cylinder engine for towing, hauling or even fulfilling the speed desires of the consumers.
Over the years, Chevy Equinox has managed to get thumbs up for its ride comfort and cabin quietness, which are also on the top five of what we need from an SUV list of most of the consumers. However, there is one factor with Equinox which considerably decreases its points and that is its limited cargo space, which is quite low if compared to the rivals. Although, it’s enough to load general baggage which usually people haul, but it is certainly not meant for cargo hauling especially while going off road. In comfort department, there is one thing about 2014 Chevrolet Equinox which is quite impressive and it is its sliding and reclining rear seats that offer first class kind leg room to second row passengers.
The only thing about 2014 Chevrolet Equinox that impresses us the least is its 2.4 liter four cylinder engine, which remains standard on all trim levels, although it claims to have solid EPA fuel economy ratings, but in real life, it has failed to overwhelm us with its fuel economy as well as performance. In the handling department as well 2014 Chevrolet Equinox lags too much and its steering is very disappointing even if we look at it by the budget crossover standards.
If you are looking for an SUV which is more practical, then we would suggest you to look for other rivals like roomier and multitalented Honda CR-V and Kia Sorento; they offer optional V6 engine along with third row seat for a big family. For sportier SUV with more entertaining driving experience Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5 and Volkswagen Tiguan can be an ideal choice for you. 2014 Chevrolet Equinox can also fit your bill ideally if your priorities are upscale interior and optional V6 engine, otherwise there are better options to look for.
Sneak Peek at 2014 Chevy Equinox
Since it was first introduced in 2010, the Chevrolet Equinox has been one of the most love compact crossover SUVs all credits to its perfect combination of good looks, comfort and practicality. Compared to some more recently launched or redesigned models, the 2014 Chevrolet Equinox struggles to remain as desirable as it has always been but it is still a model you might want to take a look at if you are searching for a compact crossover.
Above of all on Equinox’s positive attribute list is the availability of a strong V6 engine. As the times goes by and fuel economy becomes a raging issue or there is a claimed lack of consumer demand, more and more automakers are dropping V6 engines from their compact crossovers leaving the Equinox (and its GMC twin, the Terrain) as one of the few handful models in 2014 to boast a six cylinder grunt for towing or hauling or merely to quench your thirst for speed. Second in the list follows the overall comfort and quietness of the cabin Equinox proudly holds. While the truth prevails that this little Chevy does not offer as much as cargo space as some rivals, but there is still enough to deal with the typical stuff that most people will be looking to haul. Then there’s also the fact that the Equinox’s rear seat both slides back and reclines to give second row occupants first-class legroom.
What disappoints a tad bit is the 2.4 liter four cylinder engine that is standard on all trim levels which by the way are the LS, LT and LTZ. Even the solid EPA fuel ratings don’t do much justice out in the real world. Handling isn’t a strong suit and the steering lacks precision even by budget crossover SUV standards.
The 2.4 liter four-cylinder engine puts out 182 horsepower and 172 pout feet of twist. The standard power and torque in the lineup are accompanied by a six speed automatic transmission and front wheel drive. The all wheel drive system comes as optional. The front wheel drive Equinox with a four cylinder engine accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a sprint time of about 9.3 seconds. The LT and LZT models come with an option of the impressive 3.6 liter V6 producing 301 ponies and 272 pound feet of torque. The small SUV accelerates to 60 mph from rest in 7.0 seconds which is an amazing sprint time among small and midsize crossovers with a six-cylinder or upgraded turbocharged engine. The four cylinder models, when properly equipped, are capable of towing up to 1,500 pounds. With the V6 grunt the towing capacity rises up to 3,500 pounds.
While the 2014 Chevrolet Equinox disappoints with average handling, its smooth ride and the overall serenity of the cabin get it back into the game. The compact crossover faces tough competition with the more practical, roomier and multitalented Honda CR-V and other sportier models like the Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape and Volkswagen Tiguan. However, the Equinox remains worth a look if you seek for a small SUV with a truly upscale interior and a V6 option.