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2005 Chevrolet Equinox Full Review
Date Published: 7/31/08
Also in the 2005 Chevrolet Equinox Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Chevrolet Equinox Full Review
7.
8.
2005 Chevrolet Equinox Review
Equinox debuts for 2005 as a smaller, less-expensive midsize-SUV companion to Chevrolet's TrailBlazer. It shares its car-type platform with the Vue from GM's Saturn division, but has a longer wheelbase and body, and has steel body panels in place of Vue's plastic. Equinox seats five; no 3rd-row seat is offered. The rear seat slides fore and aft 8 inches to maximize passenger or cargo space. The one-piece rear hatch does not include separate-opening glass. Equinox comes in LS and uplevel LT trim, both with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive without low-range gearing. A 185-hp V6 and 5-speed automatic transmission make up the sole powertrain. Traction control is standard on the 2WD LT, optional as part of the ABS option on the 2WD LS. ABS is standard on all but the 2WD LS. Head-protecting curtain side airbags are optional. Available features include leather upholstery, heated front seats, satellite radio, OnStar assistance, and 17-inch wheels in place of standard 16s.
Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to 8-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.
Our Best Buys include the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Durango, Ford Explorer, Ford Freestyle, Nissan Murano, and Toyota 4Runner.
Our Best Buys include the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Durango, Ford Explorer, Ford Freestyle, Nissan Murano, and Toyota 4Runner.
News
Equinox is apparently planned for a 5-year design run, hence current speculation about a "midcycle freshening" for 2007. Sources say a third-row seat may be one of the updates.
2005 Chevrolet Equinox Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Cargo room | Steering/handling |
| Rear-seat room | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
Lively takeoffs, linear power delivery. Transmission kicks down quickly to provide decent passing punch. Test 2WD LT did 8.8 sec 0-60 mph; expect about the same for slightly heavier AWD versions. Towing capacity is 3500 lb.
| 2WD LS | 2WD LT w/17-in. wheels | AWD LT w/17-in. wheels | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.9 |
Lively takeoffs, linear power delivery. Transmission kicks down quickly to provide decent passing punch. Test 2WD LT did 8.8 sec 0-60 mph; expect about the same for slightly heavier AWD versions. Towing capacity is 3500 lb.
Fuel Economy
Above the midsize-SUV norm. Test 2WD LT averaged 18.0 mpg in mixed city/highway travel, including gas-eating performance tests.
| 2WD LS | 2WD LT w/17-in. wheels | AWD LT w/17-in. wheels | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 3.9 |
Above the midsize-SUV norm. Test 2WD LT averaged 18.0 mpg in mixed city/highway travel, including gas-eating performance tests.
Ride Quality
Long wheelbase, soft chassis tuning smooth out most bumps. Some testers cited mild side-to-side rocking motions and unsettled feel at highway speed.
| 2WD LS | 2WD LT w/17-in. wheels | AWD LT w/17-in. wheels | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.1 |
Long wheelbase, soft chassis tuning smooth out most bumps. Some testers cited mild side-to-side rocking motions and unsettled feel at highway speed.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Steering light, vague on center, and some testers want more road feel. Pronounced body lean in turns. Even moderately fast corners trigger noseplow with 16-inch tires. Slightly more stable feeling with 17-inch tires. AWD assists grip in slippery conditions, but not meant for off-road use.
| 2WD LS | 2WD LT w/17-in. wheels | AWD LT w/17-in. wheels | Class Average |
| 3 | 4 | 4 | 3.8 |
Steering light, vague on center, and some testers want more road feel. Pronounced body lean in turns. Even moderately fast corners trigger noseplow with 16-inch tires. Slightly more stable feeling with 17-inch tires. AWD assists grip in slippery conditions, but not meant for off-road use.
Quietness
About average compared to other SUVs. Testers split on engine noise, some finding V6 too coarse sounding in full-throttle acceleration. Wind rush unobtrusive, but rough pavement can generate noticeable tire roar, some body drumming.
| 2WD LS | 2WD LT w/17-in. wheels | AWD LT w/17-in. wheels | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.8 |
About average compared to other SUVs. Testers split on engine noise, some finding V6 too coarse sounding in full-throttle acceleration. Wind rush unobtrusive, but rough pavement can generate noticeable tire roar, some body drumming.
Controls
Simple, straightforward gauges readable in all light conditions. Controls within easy reach. Power-window switches grouped on center console rather than door panels; some testers found them difficult to reach. Gear-position indicators arrayed horizontally above console-mounted shift lever; finding intended gear can be confusing. Most interior materials appropriate for this price level, but cabin still has cut-rate feel from too many hard plastic surfaces, overly wide panel gaps, and low-grade base cloth upholstery. Interior colors limited to light gray and tan, so dirt may become a problem.
| 2WD LS | 2WD LT w/17-in. wheels | AWD LT w/17-in. wheels | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.3 |
Simple, straightforward gauges readable in all light conditions. Controls within easy reach. Power-window switches grouped on center console rather than door panels; some testers found them difficult to reach. Gear-position indicators arrayed horizontally above console-mounted shift lever; finding intended gear can be confusing. Most interior materials appropriate for this price level, but cabin still has cut-rate feel from too many hard plastic surfaces, overly wide panel gaps, and low-grade base cloth upholstery. Interior colors limited to light gray and tan, so dirt may become a problem.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Ample head and leg room, but some testers complained of lumpy lumbar bolstering. SUV-height driving position provides good view of road. Thick front roof pillars can obscure visibility at stop signs, and visibility astern is hindered by thick 3rd and 4th pillars. Entry/exit a breeze.
| 2WD LS | 2WD LT w/17-in. wheels | AWD LT w/17-in. wheels | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.7 |
Ample head and leg room, but some testers complained of lumpy lumbar bolstering. SUV-height driving position provides good view of road. Thick front roof pillars can obscure visibility at stop signs, and visibility astern is hindered by thick 3rd and 4th pillars. Entry/exit a breeze.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Good head room. Chevrolet's Multi-Flex sliding rear seat easily adjusts to create generous leg room. Flat seat less comfortable than in some rivals. But clever 60/40 split design allows three child seats to fit, and two can remain in place while one seatback folds down.
| 2WD LS | 2WD LT w/17-in. wheels | AWD LT w/17-in. wheels | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.2 |
Good head room. Chevrolet's Multi-Flex sliding rear seat easily adjusts to create generous leg room. Flat seat less comfortable than in some rivals. But clever 60/40 split design allows three child seats to fit, and two can remain in place while one seatback folds down.
Cargo Room
A strong point. Rear seats don't fold perfectly flat, but front-passenger seatback does to provide room for long objects. Most rivals have opening rear glass, but low liftover makes for easy loading. Adjustable-height cargo shelf a bit flimsy, but provides many storage options. Front center armrest includes storage compartment, folds up between seatbacks, but space below would provide more utility if it contained a deep bin rather than a shallow tray.
| 2WD LS | 2WD LT w/17-in. wheels | AWD LT w/17-in. wheels | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.8 |
A strong point. Rear seats don't fold perfectly flat, but front-passenger seatback does to provide room for long objects. Most rivals have opening rear glass, but low liftover makes for easy loading. Adjustable-height cargo shelf a bit flimsy, but provides many storage options. Front center armrest includes storage compartment, folds up between seatbacks, but space below would provide more utility if it contained a deep bin rather than a shallow tray.
Value within Class
Its sloppy steering and handling make it feel like a large, cumbersome SUV, and Equinox lacks the mechanical finesse of competitors such as the Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot. But it has a carlike ride, plenty of utility, and prices that undercut those of most midsize rivals.
| 2WD LS | 2WD LT w/17-in. wheels | AWD LT w/17-in. wheels | Class Average |
| 5 | 6 | 6 | 5.6 |
Its sloppy steering and handling make it feel like a large, cumbersome SUV, and Equinox lacks the mechanical finesse of competitors such as the Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot. But it has a carlike ride, plenty of utility, and prices that undercut those of most midsize rivals.
Total Score
| 2WD LS | 2WD LT w/17-in. wheels | AWD LT w/17-in. wheels | Class Average |
| 54 | 56 | 56 | 55.1 |
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
| Low Score | 37 | |
| Average Score | 55 | |
| High Score | 67 |
2005 Chevrolet Equinox Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 06/01/2005
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| 2WD LS 4-door wagon | $21,320 | $19,657 | $565 |
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| AWD LS 4-door wagon | $23,295 | $21,478 | $565 |
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| 2WD LT 4-door wagon | $23,035 | $21,238 | $565 |
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| AWD LT 4-door wagon | $24,660 | $22,737 | $565 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
LS
Powertrain
3.4-liter V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission.
Safety
Dual front airbags, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, power steering, tilt steering wheel, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats w/height-adjustable driver seat, fold-flat passenger seat, center console, cupholders, adjustable split folding rear seat, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, intermittent wipers, visor mirrors, cargo cover, rear defogger, intermittent rear wiper/washer, automatic headlights.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, roof rails, rear spoiler, 235/65R16 tires, wheel covers, AWD adds: all-wheel drive, antilock brakes.
LT adds to LS:
Powertrain
Traction control.
Safety
Antilock brakes.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Cruise control, map lights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Fog lights, rear privacy glass, roof rack, alloy wheels, AWD adds: all-wheel drive. Deletes: traction control.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
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Preferred Equipment Group 1SB
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LS
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$535
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$482
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Cruise control, floormats, rear privacy glass, roof rack.
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Preferred Equipment Group 1SD
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LT
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$550
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$495
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Leather-wrapped steering wheel, 6-way power driver seat, automatic day/night rearview mirror.
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Preferred Equipment Group 1SE
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LT
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$3,745
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$3,371
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Preferred Equipment Group 1SD plus leather upholstery, heated front seats, power sunroof, OnStar assistance system w/one-year service, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, steering-wheel radio controls, automatic day/night rearview mirror, 235/60R17 tires, machine-finished alloy wheels.
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Trailering Equipment
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LS, LT
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$350
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$315
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Receiver hitch, 4-wire connector.
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Safety |
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Curtain side airbags
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LS, LT
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$395
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$356
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Antilock brakes
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2WD LS
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$400
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$360
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Includes traction control.
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
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OnStar assistance system
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LT w/1SD
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$820
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$738
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LT
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$1,045
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$941
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Includes one-year service, steering-wheel radio controls, automatic day/night rearview mirror.
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Leather upholstery
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LT
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$545
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$491
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Requires Preferred Equipment Group 1SD.
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Heated front seats
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LT
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$250
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$225
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Requires Preferred Equipment Group 1SD, leather upholstery.
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AM/FM/CD/MP3 player
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LS, LT
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$135
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$122
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LT w/1SE (credit)
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$-260
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$-234
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AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer
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LS, LT
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$395
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$356
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Upgraded sound system
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LT
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$295
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$266
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Requires optional radio.
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Satellite radio
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LT
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$325
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$293
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Requires monthly service fee after 3rd month.
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Power sunroof
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LT
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$595
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$535
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Floormats
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LS
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$40
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$36
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Roof rack
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LS
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$45
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$41
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Rear privacy glass
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LS
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$275
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$248
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Fog lights
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LS
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$230
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$207
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Includes color-keyed bumpers.
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Special paint
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LS, LT
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$165
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$149
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Engine-block heater
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LS, LT
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$20
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$18
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Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires |
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Alloy wheels
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LS
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$375
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$338
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Machine-finished alloy wheels
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LT
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$295
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$266
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Includes 235/60R17 tires.
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2005 Chevrolet Equinox Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Chevrolet Equinox 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 112.5 |
| Overall Length, in. | 188.8 |
| Overall Width, in. | 71.4 |
| Overall Height, in. | 67.0 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3776 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 68.6 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | 1290 |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 16.6 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 40.9 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.2 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 40.1 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 40.2 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| ohv V6 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 3.4 /204 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 185 @ 5200 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 210 @ 3800 |
| Availability | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
|
| 5-speed automatic | 19/25 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Chevrolet Equinox 4-door wagon |
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
| Rollover Resistance | 4 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | 5/60,000 | Aveo and Cobalt only. |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 6/100,000100,000 | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Canada
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive
Also in the 2005 Chevrolet Equinox Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Chevrolet Equinox Full Review
7.
8.
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