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2006 Chevrolet Equinox Full Review
Date Published: 9/12/08
Also in the 2006 Chevrolet Equinox Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Chevrolet Equinox Full Review
7.
8.
2006 Chevrolet Equinox Review
Antilock brakes are standard on all versions of the Equinox for 2006. This is a smaller, less expensive midsize-SUV companion to Chevrolet's TrailBlazer. It shares its car-type architecture and powertrains with the Pontiac Torrent. Equinox seats five. The rear seat slides fore and aft 8 inches to adjust for passenger or cargo space. The rear liftgate does not include opening glass. LS and uplevel LT trim are offered, both with front-wheel drive or AWD without low-range gearing. A 185-hp V6 and 5-speed automatic transmission is the sole powertrain. Traction control is standard on 2WD versions. ABS and traction control are now standard on all models; they had been optional on the 2WD LS. Curtain side airbags are optional. Available features include leather upholstery, heated front seats, and OnStar assistance.
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 Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Our Recommended picks are Dodge Durango, Ford Explorer, Ford Freestyle, Nissan Murano, Nissan Xterra, and Toyota 4Runner.
New or significantly redesigned models include Hummer H3, Jeep Commander, Pontiac Torrent, and Subaru B9 Tribeca.
Our Best Buys include Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Our Recommended picks are Dodge Durango, Ford Explorer, Ford Freestyle, Nissan Murano, Nissan Xterra, and Toyota 4Runner.
New or significantly redesigned models include Hummer H3, Jeep Commander, Pontiac Torrent, and Subaru B9 Tribeca.
News
A freshening is still planned for the 2007 Equinox, which means a few cosmetic and functional updates. A small third-row seat intended for children may be added to the options list. Our sources also say Chevrolet will add a smaller crossover built on the shorter Theta platform used by Equinox design cousin Saturn Vue. It's being whispered as a 2009 model to counter the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.
2006 Chevrolet Equinox Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Cargo room | Steering/handling |
| Rear-seat room | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
Both Equinox and its Pontiac Torrent cousin furnish lively takeoffs, linear power delivery. Transmission kicks down quickly to provide decent passing punch. Test Equinox 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. whls. | AWD LT w/17-in. whls. | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Both Equinox and its Pontiac Torrent cousin furnish lively takeoffs, linear power delivery. Transmission kicks down quickly to provide decent passing punch. Test Equinox 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 including gas-eating performance tests. Test 2WD Torrent averaged 20.5 mpg in mixed city/highway driving. Test AWD Torrent averaged 15.1 mpg in mostly city driving.
| 2WD LS | 2WD LT w/17-in. whls. | AWD LT w/17-in. whls. | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 3.8 |
Above the midsize-SUV norm. Test 2WD LT averaged 18.0 mpg including gas-eating performance tests. Test 2WD Torrent averaged 20.5 mpg in mixed city/highway driving. Test AWD Torrent averaged 15.1 mpg in mostly city driving.
Ride Quality
Soft suspension tuning smoothes out most bumps. Some testers find Torrent has more side-to-side rocking motions and impact harshness than Equinox.
| 2WD LS | 2WD LT w/17-in. whls. | AWD LT w/17-in. whls. | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.4 |
Soft suspension tuning smoothes out most bumps. Some testers find Torrent has more side-to-side rocking motions and impact harshness than Equinox.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Steering overassisted, 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. whls. | AWD LT w/17-in. whls. | Class Average |
| 3 | 4 | 4 | 4.1 |
Steering overassisted, 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 with 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. Torrent's 17-inch tires slap loudly over major ruts, bumps.
| 2WD LS | 2WD LT w/17-in. whls. | AWD LT w/17-in. whls. | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.2 |
About average compared with 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. Torrent's 17-inch tires slap loudly over major ruts, bumps.
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 find 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. Available leather trim improves general ambience, especially in Torrent.
| 2WD LS | 2WD LT w/17-in. whls. | AWD LT w/17-in. whls. | 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 find 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. Available leather trim improves general ambience, especially in Torrent.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Ample head and leg room, but some testers complain 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 side and rear pillars. Entry/exit a breeze.
| 2WD LS | 2WD LT w/17-in. whls. | AWD LT w/17-in. whls. | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.7 |
Ample head and leg room, but some testers complain 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 side and rear pillars. Entry/exit a breeze.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Good head room. 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. whls. | AWD LT w/17-in. whls. | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.2 |
Good head room. 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. whls. | AWD LT w/17-in. whls. | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 8.3 |
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
Sloppy steering and handling make Equinox and its Pontiac Torrent cousin feel like cumbersome trucks, even though these SUVs have car-type chassis. Both also lack the mechanical finesse of competitors such as the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. On the upside, Equinox and Torrent have an absorbent ride, versatile interiors, and prices that undercut those of most midsize rivals.
| 2WD LS | 2WD LT w/17-in. whls. | AWD LT w/17-in. whls. | Class Average |
| 5 | 6 | 6 | 5.7 |
Sloppy steering and handling make Equinox and its Pontiac Torrent cousin feel like cumbersome trucks, even though these SUVs have car-type chassis. Both also lack the mechanical finesse of competitors such as the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. On the upside, Equinox and Torrent have an absorbent ride, versatile interiors, and prices that undercut those of most midsize rivals.
Total Score
| 2WD LS | 2WD LT w/17-in. whls. | AWD LT w/17-in. whls. | Class Average |
| 55 | 57 | 57 | 56.7 |
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
| Low Score | 43 | |
| Average Score | 56 | |
| High Score | 66 |
2006 Chevrolet Equinox Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 05/26/2006
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| 2WD LS 4-door wagon | $21,400 | $19,945 | $590 |
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| AWD LS 4-door wagon | $22,900 | $21,343 | $590 |
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| 2WD LT 4-door wagon | $22,400 | $20,877 | $590 |
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| AWD LT 4-door wagon | $23,900 | $22,275 | $590 |
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, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, antilock brakes, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, power steering, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, 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. Deletes: traction control.
LT adds to LS:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Fog lights, rear privacy glass, alloy wheels, AWD adds: all-wheel drive. Deletes: traction control.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
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2LT Option Pkg.
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LT
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$1,130
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$938
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Leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, 6-way power driver seat w/lumbar adjustment, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, automatic day/night rearview mirror, 235/60R17 tires.
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Trailering Equipment
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LS, LT
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$350
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$291
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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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$328
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
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OnStar assistance system
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LT w/2LT Option Pkg.
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$695
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$577
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LS, LT
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$1,045
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$867
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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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$595
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$494
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Requires 2LT Option Pkg.
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Heated front seats
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LT
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$250
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$208
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Requires 2LT Option Pkg.
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AM/FM/CD/MP3 player
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LS, LT
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$135
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$112
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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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$327
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Upgraded sound system
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LT
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$325
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$270
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Requires optional radio or 2LT Option Pkg.
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Satellite radio
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LT
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$325
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$270
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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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$695
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$577
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Roof rack
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LT
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$150
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$125
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Special paint
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LS, LT
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$295
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$245
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Engine-block heater
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LS, LT
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$35
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$29
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2006 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. | 1151 |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 17.0 |
| 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
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| 5-speed automatic | 18/23 |
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, Cobalt and Uplander only. |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 6/100,000 | -- |
| 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 2006 Chevrolet Equinox Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Chevrolet Equinox Full Review
7.
8.
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