2022 Chevrolet Equinox RS AWD
“Less Power – Better Looks”
By Arv Voss
The Equinox remains as Chevrolet’s second best selling vehicle and the 2022 Chevrolet Equinox steps up to the plate with appealing styling cues, sleek aerodynamic features that enhance the lineup’s appearance in addition to operational efficiency. There’s also a new trim level – The RS.
PROPULSION:
A couple of years ago, the Chevrolet Equinox came with a choice of two engines: a 2.4-liter Direct fuel Injected inline four-cylinder that produced 182 horsepower and 172 pound feet of torque; or a 3.6-liter, 301 horsepower Direct Injection V6. Both engines were mated to a specific 6-speed, electronically controlled automatic transmission.
Power is now generated by a standard 1.5-liter, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine with VVT and Direct Injection that produces 170 horsepower along with 203 pound feet of torque. Energy reaches the driving wheels via a shiftable six-speed automatic transmission.
OVERVIEW:
The Chevrolet Equinox is a two-row, five-passenger compact crossover that is suitable for a variety of weather conditions and seasons, serving a variety of lifestyle levels. Think of the Equinox as a smaller sibling of the Chevy Traverse. All versions come standard with front-wheel drive and offer all-wheel drive as a $1600 option.
There’s no more base L model, so the base price is up by $2000, but the LS and LT are less expensive than last year. All versions come standard with front-wheel drive and offer all-wheel drive as a $1600 option.
EFFICIENT AND ATTRACTIVE DESIGN CUES:
The goal of the Equinox development team was to create an all-new compact SUV that represented an ideal balance of style, function and efficiency.
The engineering and design teams focused on developing a refined new vehicle shape that maintained the key proportions of a small crossover/SUV, in addition to delivering the utility and functionality that customers in the segment look for. The Equinox’s exterior expresses a lean, sculpted form sporting Chevrolet’s signature styling cues.
NEW FOR 2022:
Highlighting the changes to the 2022 Equinox is a refreshed front end. The modififcations deliver more distinctive headlights, a new grille design, and updated front and rear bumpers. The new RS model, includes sporty styling cues such as dark 19-inch wheels and blacked-out exterior trim. The interior serves up a unique shift knob, red stitching, and black upholstery. This update originally intended for the 2021 model year, was held off until the 2022 model year due to the global Coronavirus pandemic.
he Equinox’s overall length delivers the right-size vehicle, making it easier to park and maneuver. Despite the reduced smaller exterior dimensions, the interior volume is increased. GM’s full-scale wind tunnel produced an exterior that not only maintains the essence of the intended design, but reduced wind resistance by 10 percent over the previous model.
Electronically controlled upper and lower grille shutters contribute to greater aero performance, Additional aerodynmic featurees include: a large rear spoiler, that helps reduce turbulence aft for less wind resistance; at the rear corner a series of “air trips,” are incorporated for optimal air separation at the edges of the taillamps and corners at the D-pillars; tire deflectors contribute to achieving the same aerodynamic advantage as a traditional air dam without compromising the overall sculpted design form; on FWD model underbody panels improve airflow under the vehicle.
COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE:
The 2019 Equinox is a fresh, modern compact SUV, features, increased cargo space, the latest connectivity, and expanded menu of available safety features. Purposeful technologies are included to increase passenger’s safety and to enhance comfort and connectivity.
The Equinox’s architecture allows the interior to take advantage of the additional space and to offer a down-and-away instrument panel, while the low windshield base provides a commanding outward view. Heated and ventilated front seats, fold flat rear seats, surround vision, 4G LTE WI-FI and user interface intuitive add to the convenience and practicality of the pleasantly intuitive Interior controls and switchgear. Connectivity included the MyLink infotainment system designed to support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
AS TESTED:
My test 2022 Chevrolet Equinox was in the new RS trim sporting a Cherry Red Metallic Tintcoat exterior and it came with a Jet Black interior. The base sticker was $31,700., while optional fare, along with the destination charge elevated the final tally to $36,515.
PERFORMANCE:
The 2022 Chevrolet Equinox, RS AWD performed admirably on all counts, covering virtually all driving scenarios from scenic, twisting country back roads to high speed freeways, with congested urban traffic thrown in for good measure. The weather menu was varied as well.
THE FINAL ANALYSIS:
The new Equinox is stable, handles with agility and a positive steering feel and rides smoothly. The plus/minus toggle switch on the gear selector works well and without hesitation. The ride quality is firm but smooth and acceleration is brisk with no noticeable turbo lag.
SPECIFICATIONS: 2022 Chevrolet Equinox AWD
Base Price: $31,700.
Price as Tested: $36,515.
Engine Type and Size: 1.5-liter turbocharged DOHC inline 4 cylinder with direct injection.
Horsepower (bhp): 170 @ 5,600 rpm
Torque (ft./ lbs.): 203 @ 2,000 rpm
Transmission: Six-speed shiftable automatic.
Drive Train: Front mounted engine, AWD.
Suspension: Front – Independent with stabilizer bar
Rear – Independent with stabilizer bar
Brakes: Power assisted four-wheel vented discs with ABS, stability control, TPMS, and traction control.
Tires: Hankook Kinergy GT 235/50 R19 99H mounted on 5-slanted “V”-spoke Graphite painted alloy wheels.
Wheelbase: 183.1 inches
Length Overall: 107.3 inches
Width: 72.6 inches –without mirrors
Height: 65.4 inches
Curb Weight: 3,478 lbs.
Turning Circle: 38.4 ft.
Fuel Capacity: 15.6 gallons
EPA Mileage Estimates: 25 mpg city – 30 mpg highway /
Drag Coefficient: Not listed
0 – 60 mph: Not tested
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