2013 Chevrolet Equinox LT (CHRISD.CA)
Chevrolet Equinox GPS navigation system (CHRISD.CA)
For the past week, we’ve been trying out the 2013 Chevrolet Equinox LT.
GM Canada provided a test model to get a hands-on experience behind the wheel of this fully loaded SUV.
First impressions of the vehicle were pure luxury on the inside and out. The 18″ chrome wheels are definitely an attention grabber against the dark slate-coloured exterior and its smooth lines.
The all wheel drive functionality definitely kicked in when navigating Winnipeg’s snow-covered side streets last Tuesday following about 13 centimetres of recently fallen fresh show. Compared to other AWD models that tend to hesitate before reverting power to the rear wheels, the Equinox was intuitive in knowing when to apply the extra boost.
The review model we drove was loaded with all the top-of-the-line bells and whistles one can add when configuring their Equinox. Everything from the heated leather two-tone coloured seats and sunroof, to the navigation package and Pioneer sound system were a treat. Throw in the rear backup camera and safety features like crash monitoring and lane detection, and one could easily get spoiled.
The Calgary-based vehicle was picked up locally with just under 5,000 kms on its odometer. The 3.6L engine with dual exhaust didn’t make it too difficult to start racking up additional kilometres to really give the Equinox a true test drive. After navigating through the snow in an array of situations, including nearly getting stuck at one point, it was time to open the vehicle up on the highway. A spin around the Perimeter proved the Equinox is a well-equipped, comfortable vehicle if one were to go on a road trip. The interior remained fairly quiet throughout and the ride itself was a smooth one. When it came to passing traffic at a high rate of speed (while obeying local traffic laws, of course), the Equinox was powerful enough to get out and back in without feeling like the vehicle was getting away from you.
Chevrolet Equinox interior (CHRISD.CA)
Chevrolet really has a winner on its hands with the Equinox, which was configured at a MSRP of $33,000 for the model we tested. The backseat and trunk area provide plenty of room for a family of five and the contents they may carry. An included towing package also saw the Equinox equipped to pull a boat or other recreational vehicle without additional installation.
Thanks to @ChevroletCanada for allowing us to experience the all new Equinox.
— CD, Managing Editor
