Have you zeroed in on the 2018 Chevy Equinox? Then this is a perfectly logical choice. The SUV delivers a long list of amenities and capabilities, proving why it sits atop the segment.
However, you can read countless articles, but do you truly learn anything about the nameplate? Well, we’ve provided insight from the brand itself. Below, you’ll find Chevy’s engineer and designers explaining why the brand-new Equinox deserves to sit on a tier by itself. By hearing this information from the literal manufacturer, it helps to add some legitimacy to everything you’ve read.
Take a look at what the brand had to say about the Equinox. Then, when you’re shopping for Chevy cars, you’ll know exactly why you’re opting for this particular SUV…
Chevy Explains: Style
Nowadays, car brands tend to shove as many technological amenities they can into a vehicle. While these features are surely appreciated, the engineers tend to skimp out on style and opulence. Well, Chevy is clearly dedicated to providing their customers with a striking, handsome vehicle, and that’s why they stocked the Equinox with a number of high-quality materials.
“Many fashion trends disappear after a year or two, while the Equinox is designed for the long haul, making the durability of its materials very important,” said Mara Kapsis, the color and trim designer for the 2018 Equinox. “By following real people and absorbing the little things in life that help or hinder them — such as photos posted of muddy paws, spilled drinks or stains on the seats — we learned more about how we could make the new Equinox easier to live with and enjoy every day.”
Of course, similar to all of Chevy’s innovations, these inclusions are multifaceted. The fabrics are durable, meaning they won’t be compromised due to stains or mud. Best of all, they’re extremely comfortable, allowing occupants to relax during any long journey.
“The fabric is very durable, while the color and even the pattern help hide dirt and stains,” said Kapsis. “It’s also very easy to vacuum and clean, which saves owners time and helps keep the interior looking great year after year.”
“The Equinox is designed for the way our customers live. Complementing its style with durable, easy-to-clean materials helps ensure it and its owners make a fashion statement every day…More than anticipating where the design will be when the vehicle is introduced, you’ve got to balance it with a timeless quality that will keep it looking modern for years to come. There’s risk involved with that, but it paid off with the new Equinox.”
Chevy Explains: Performance
Of course, drivers should also expect a whole lot of power from their new SUV, and there’s no doubt that the Chevy Equinox delivers in that regard. Each of the incredible engine offerings delivers all of the power a driver could possibly want, but they also manage to deliver impressive fuel efficiency, as well.
“Chevrolet continues to lead with technologies that offer customers more choice,” said Steve Majoros, the marketing director for Cars and Crossovers. “Our three-engine turbo-charged Equinox lineup means we can provide drivers more options for the performance and efficiency they desire.”
The 1.5-liter Turbo engine is the smallest offering, managing to deliver a whole lot of power at 170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. However, the system really impresses thanks to the 32-mile-per-gallon highway fuel efficiency. The 2.0-liter Turbo engine takes that power to a whole new level, delivering 252 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, leading to a 3,500-pound towing capacity. Finally, the 1.6-liter Turbo Diesel engine is for those seeking to maximize their fuel, as the unit promises an incredible 39 miles per gallon when traveling on the highway. Despite these impressive specs, the engine still manages to crank out a respectable 137 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque.
“It is very fun to drive, with torque on demand at all speeds,” said Dan Nicholson, vice president of Global Propulsion Systems. “In fact, the engine delivers 90 percent of peak torque between 1,500 and 3,250 rpm. The strong torque provides the feeling of a larger engine, with exceptional smoothness and quietness.”
Chevy Explains: Safety
“Think of it as core strength training,” said Jill Dennis, lead development engineer, when describing the Equinox. “The new Equinox’s structure is leaner yet stronger, resulting in efficient performance that inspires confidence while also creating a more fun, safe and comfortable driving experience.”
“From accelerating to turning corners, the 2018 Equinox drives ‘lighter,’ which correlates with a greater feeling of precision. It’s a dynamic, agile driving experience rooted in the solidity of the all-new body structure.”
Clearly, drivers will be dealing with a whole lot of power when they’re operating this SUV, and that means they’ll need to lean on the brand’s array of safety functions. Fortunately, the Equinox more than delivers, as the array of features should prevent accidents from occurring altogether. For instance, inclusions like Low-Speed Forward Automatic Braking, Lane Keep Assist (with Lane Departure Warning), and Forward Collision Alert should prevent devastating collisions on the highway, while the Side Blind Zone Alert and Lane Change Alert will also provide an extra set of eyes. Meanwhile, the Rear Vision Camera, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Rear Park Assist should prevent pesky fender benders (and the vicarious headache).
If you do find yourself in an accident, you can rely on the vehicle’s extensive airbag system to provide the necessary amount of cushion during a collision. Drivers can also turn to the OnStar Automatic Crash Response system, which will automatically connect them with an OnStar Advisor. If help is needed, this individual can send emergency personnel directly to the crash site.
Finally, perhaps the most clever safety inclusion is the Teen Driver Technology. The system proves to be the perfect companion for those younger drivers, as the unit is intended to promote safe driving habits. For instance, the vehicle will refuse to play audio until seat belts are secured, and the various safety functions will automatically activate when a teen takes the wheel. Best of all, parents can monitor their child’s driving tendencies when their journey has concluded.
