2012 Chevrolet Equinox Reviews

For the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox, new forward collision alert and lane-departure warning systems are now available. Equinox 1LT models also have the rearview camera as standard equipment this year. However, the optional rear seat video entertainment system has been dropped.



With a rear seat that slides back to create an expanse worthy of a prom-night limousine, the 2012 Equinox easily counts rear legroom among its strengths.



Standard equipment for the LS includes 17-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, cloth upholstery, a partial power driver seat (height adjustment only), a sliding and reclining rear seat, cruise control, full power accessories, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel with audio controls, Bluetooth, OnStar and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack.



Every 2012 Chevrolet Equinox comes standard with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 hp and 172 pound-feet of torque. Every Equinox regardless of engine comes standard with a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive; all-wheel drive is optional. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 22 mpg city/32 mpg highway and 26 mpg combined with front-wheel drive and 20/29/23 with all-wheel drive. With the V6, front-wheel-drive models return an estimated 17/24/20, with all-wheel-drive versions coming in at 16/23/19.



The 2012 Chevy Equinox comes standard with antilock disc brakes (with brake assist), traction and stability control, front seat side airbags, side curtain airbags and OnStar. The Chevy Equinox boasts a stylish cabin filled with premium touches. The Equinox boasts a nice expanse of passenger room, with 60/40-split rear seats that slide back to provide substantial rear legroom.



The 2012 Chevrolet Equinox isn’t likely to receive any major changes. Should you wait for the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox or buy a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox? Styling: Any minor changes to the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox – colors, tail lamp tint, and wheel style -- won’t take it far field from the look of the 2010-2011 Equinox.



Mechanical: The 2012 Chevrolet Equinox will reprise a choice of four- and six-cylinder engines and front- or all-wheel drive. Equinox has offered front-wheel drive or extra-cost all-wheel drive (AWD) at every trim level and should continue to do so for 2012. Prices for the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox had not been released in time for this review. (Estimated base prices in this review include the manufacturer’s mandated destination fee; Chevrolet’s fee for the 2011 Equinox was $745.)



That means an Equinox with the four-cylinder engine should remain among the more fuel-efficient crossovers of its size. Expect 2012 Chevy Equinox ratings for four-cylinder models to stay around 22/32 mpg city/highway with front-wheel drive and around 20/29 with AWD.



The 2011 version of this five-seat crossover got the first styling changes since Edge’s model-year 2008 introduction. With the Ford Escape SUV appealing to entry-level crossover shoppers, the 2012 Edge’s base price range should again hover above that of the Equinox, at roughly $29,000-$39,900.