The 2016 Chevrolet Equinox represents a solid choice for those seeking a dependable compact SUV. With a sleek design, comfortable interior, and reliable performance, it manages to tick a lot of boxes. In this review, we’ll dive deep into the features, specs, and real-life driving experience of the Equinox, highlighting what makes it stand out and where it could improve.
Why Choose the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox?
If you’re on the hunt for a spacious, fuel-efficient SUV, you might want to give the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox a closer look. With a starting price of $23,495, it’s a good option for families and individuals alike. The Equinox’s combination of practicality and comfort makes it an attractive ride for daily commutes or family road trips. Let’s break down what this SUV has to offer.
Power and Performance
Under the hood, the 2016 Equinox is powered by a 2.4L DOHC 4-cylinder engine, offering a hearty 182 horsepower and a torque of 172 lb-ft. This engine delivers a smooth yet peppy driving experience. Paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, it absorbs vibrations especially on rough roads, making it pleasant for long drives.
Fuel Economy That Impresses
The fuel efficiency of the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox is one of its key selling points. It’s rated at 26 mpg combined, with 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. This means you won’t be making frequent stops at the pump, which is perfect for road warriors. The efficient fuel tank holds 18.8 gallons, providing a generous range for both short and long trips.
Spacious Interior and Comfort
Step inside the Equinox, and you’re greeted by a roomy interior that feels inviting. With seating for five, it provides ample legroom for everyone on board. The interior dimensions boast a total passenger volume of 99.7 cubic feet, ensuring your family or friends ride comfortably. Front and rear passengers enjoy generous head and legroom, with the front having 40.9 inches of headroom and 41.2 inches of legroom.
Tech Features and Entertainment
In today’s tech-savvy world, you’ll appreciate the 7-inch diagonal color touch-screen display that comes with the Equinox’s infotainment system. The audio system features six speakers, providing quality sound for your favorite playlist. Plus, there’s Bluetooth connectivity for those who love to stay connected on the go. With a USB port and auxiliary input jack, it’s easy to plug in your devices and enjoy your tunes.
Safety First
No one wants to compromise safety, and the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox excels in this area. It received good ratings in crash tests, with an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars. The car boasts features like StabiliTrak for electronic stability control, various airbags, and a rear vision camera. Additionally, the SUV provides built-in OnStar, which offers peace of mind with automatic crash response and roadside assistance.
Exterior Design
When it comes to looks, the Equinox sports a modern and sleek design. From its body-color bumpers to its attractive aluminum wheels, it’s designed to turn heads. The rear manual liftgate opens to reveal a spacious cargo area with 31.5 cubic feet behind the second row, which expands to a whopping 63.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. It’s both practical and stylish.
Pros and Cons of the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox
- Pros:
- Roomy interior with plenty of legroom for passengers
- Impressive fuel economy
- Strong safety ratings and features
- Easy-to-use infotainment system
- Attractive design and comfortable ride
- Cons:
- Base engine can feel a bit underpowered for some drivers
- Less cargo space than some competitors
- No all-wheel-drive option for the base model
Conclusion
Overall, the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox offers a balanced mix of comfort, practicality, and performance. It’s an excellent option for families or anyone needing a reliable compact SUV. While it may lack some zip when it comes to acceleration and cargo capacity compared to some competitors, the roominess, safety features, and fuel efficiency make it a worthy contender in its class. If you’re after a vehicle that gets the job done with a touch of style, the Equinox checks a lot of boxes. So, whether you’re taking a road trip or just commuting to work, this SUV makes sure you do it comfortably and efficiently.
