2012 Chevrolet Equinox vs. Its Competition
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It's hard to imagine that GM simply didn't take this segment, which has been one of the fastest-growing in the industry, very seriously until about two years ago, when it last redesigned the almost-mid-size Equinox.
Now, the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox competes against some of the strongest-selling crossover vehicles on the market.
In size and mission, it’s a lot like the Ford Escape, which also offers four- and six-cylinder engines, as well as a Hybrid version.
The Escape (non-hybrid versions of it, at least) gets worse gas mileage and feels less substantial in some ways, but it’s a safe bargain.
Another best-selling rival is the Honda CR-V; while an all-new CR-V is on the way, the current one has one of the roomiest interiors, and great handling, although its engine is somewhat coarse and strained.
The latest Subaru Forester feels more nimble than other vehicles in this class, and while its interior isn't quite as finely detailed, it's a strong value with standard all-wheel drive.
The Hyundai Tucson is also now a formidable rival, also with great fuel economy; but ride quality is choppy in comparison, and the Tucson's steering leaves much to be desired.
 2012 Chevrolet EquinoxGet FREE Price Quote |  2012 Ford EscapeGet FREE Price Quote |  2012 Honda CR-VGet FREE Price Quote |  2012 Hyundai TucsonGet FREE Price Quote |  2011 Subaru ForesterBrowse Used Listings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quick Specs | ||||
| Meta Rating | ||||
A versatile layout, impressive performance, good ride comfort, and reasonable pricing all add up to make the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox a strong value—and a good pick for small families. | The 2012 Ford Escape still antes up solid crossover bona fides, but its sluggish handling and plasticky interior are ready for retirement | The 2012 Honda CR-V is a great family vehicle, with a thoughtfully designed and comfortable interior, and improved refinement, but it lacks the confident, sprightly feel present in past CR-Vs. | One of the most improved crossovers, the 2012 Hyundai Tucson has size and value in its corner. | The roomy, versatile 2011 Subaru Forester handles better than just about any other small crossover, though the need for a more modern transmission and a little more cabin refinement keep it from greatness. |
| MSRP From | ||||
| $23,530 | $21,440 | $22,495 | $19,145 | $20,495 |
| Gas Mileage | ||||
| 20 MPG City / 32 MPG Hwy | 20 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy | 20 MPG City / 30 MPG Hwy | 19 MPG City / 27 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | ||||
| Gas/Ethanol I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas Flat 4 |
| EPA Class | ||||
| 2WD Sport Utility Vehicle | 2WD Sport Utility Vehicles | 2WD Sport Utility | 2WD Sport Utility | 4WD Sport Utility |
| Style Name | ||||
| FWD 4-Door LS | FWD 4-Door XLS | 2WD 5-Door LX | FWD 4-Door Man GL | 4-Door Man 2.5X |
| Drivetrain | ||||
| Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | All Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | ||||
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | ||||
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | ||||
| 4 Door | 4 Door | Sport Utility Vehicle | 4 Door Sport Utility | 4 Door Sport Utility |
| Transmission | ||||
| Automatic | Manual | Automatic | Manual | Manual w/OD |
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