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The 2005 Chevrolet Equinox is classed as a Compact Sport Utility Vehicle but it sure doesn't look and feel like one. Based on the General Motors Theta architecture shared with the Saturn Vue, the Equinox drives and handles more like a midsize sedan than a truck based SUV. Common architecture is an industry term meaning that basic design components can be shared between models without expensive reengineering. While there are similarities between the Vue and the Equinox, there are noticeable differences as well. Saturn Vue uses a Honda sourced V-6 Engine while the Chevrolet Equinox uses the 185 hp 3.4 Liter engine. The Equinox is over seven inches longer than any of the competing compact SUV's including the Saturn Vue, Ford Escape, Jeep Liberty, Honda CR-V, Toyota Rav 4, Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento. While the base 2005 Chevrolet Equinox starts at only $21,560, my test vehicle was the fully equipped All Wheel Drive LT in solid Black with an MSRP less than $28,000. From first glance this is a beautiful vehicle distinctively Chevrolet with a horizontal chrome bar leading the grill similar to the Trailblazer. Bulging fender flares and sweeping sidelines recall a muscular and aerodynamic image of a much more expensive vehicle. While the Equinox has 7.9 inches of ground clearance, ease of entry and exit is noticeably convenient due to the large well-designed doors and low step in height. The Equinox deserves interior quality comparable to the exciting exterior and interior engineering. Instead a flimsy touch and feel permeates interior components from the vanity mirrors to the center console. What went through their mind? Did someone just get a bargain on bland fabric for the seats? Maybe I shouldn't be too critical. Back in college I thought I looked really good in my brown and white houndstooth check sport coat as well. The reality is I looked like a geek back then and this interior is an embarrassment for General Motors today. What is most disturbing about the interior is that the engineering is superb and it deserves to be finished in the highest quality possible. Multi-Flex sliding rear seat straight out of the Malibu Maxx has eight inches of travel adjusting space as needed for passengers and cargo. Rear seat passengers enjoy not only more legroom than the Mercedes S-Class but also reclining seats for ultimate comfort. The flat fold front passenger seat makes for a useful work area or increased storage for long items. Rear cargo area includes a unique rigid panel carpeted on one side and washable plastic tray on the other with three height adjustments and the ability to function as a tailgate table. By the end of my week driving the 2005 Chevrolet Equinox, I forgot my initial disappointment of the interior and really enjoyed the spacious feel and well-engineered features. Driving the 2005 Chrvrolet Equinox is a true joy. Electronically assisted power steering is effortless and the Independent front and rear suspension sets a new standard for ride and handling in this class. On Demand All Wheel Drive is fully automatic as no controls are required. The 2005 Chevrolet Equinox may be priced like a Compact SUV but it has the features, looks, comfort and room of a much more expensive vehicle.
2005 Chevrolet Equinox AWD LT MSRP $24,335
19 MPG City
www.Chevrolet.com
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©2003 - Stan Risener