Reflections on the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox: Shaping the Compact SUV Landscape
As autumn kissed the world with its ethereal touch in 2018, Chevrolet unveiled a new contender in the compact SUV domain – the 2018 Equinox. Seemingly crafted to counterbalance the multifaceted demands of modern SUV customers, this vehicle, with its array of new propulsion systems, a refreshing design language, and an updated suite of connectivity and safety features, looked set to reshape the Chevrolet SUV experience.
An Aesthetic Overhaul – Exterior and Interior
Muscular yet lean, the Equinox emerged sporting a redefined skin that echoed the design cues present in Chevrolet's Volt, Malibu, and Cruze. Its chiseled exterior, aided by significant aerodynamic optimization, presented a sleek silhouette complemented by standard projector-beam headlamps and LED daytime running lamps. The rear boasted horizontal taillamps amplifying the vehicle's breadth, with LED variants gracing the more premium models. Chrome trim decorated every model, further enhancing the overall richness of the design.
The Equinox's cabin followed a similar design principle, carving out an intuitively beautiful space. The all-new architecture allowed for a down-and-away instrument panel, and the lower windshield base accorded a commanding view of the road ahead. The seats, clad in optional denim-style fabric, offered a mix of style and durability. A unique 'kneeling' rear seat augmented functionality, tilting forward to allow a flat loading floor when the seatbacks were lowered.
Embracing Technology – Connectivity and Safety
The 2018 Equinox was geared to connect, protect, and entertain its passengers. The SUV housed Chevrolet's latest MyLink infotainment systems, available in 7- and 8-inch-diagonal screens, designed to accommodate Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Furthermore, it offered the convenience of an optional OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, ensuring seamless connectivity on the move.
On the safety front, the Equinox was equipped with an extensive range of active safety technologies. Besides the Teen Driver feature, which allowed parents to instill safer driving habits in their teens, the SUV presented an assortment of radar- and camera-based adaptive technologies. These advanced features were designed to alert the driver of potential crash threats, fostering a more controlled and safer driving environment. The suite included Forward Collision Alert with Following Distance Indicator, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and Low-Speed Forward Automatic Braking, among others.
Powertrain Diversity – Turbocharged Engines
The 2018 Equinox brought forth a choice of three turbocharged engines, marking a first for Chevrolet models in North America. The lineup included a 1.5L turbo, a 2.0L turbo coupled with GM’s new nine-speed automatic transmission, and a segment-first 1.6L turbo-diesel for North America. This diversity allowed customers to tailor their choice based on their unique efficiency, performance, and capability preferences.
The vehicle also showcased some noteworthy highlights. It was roughly 400 pounds (180 kg) lighter than its predecessor, translating to a 10 percent weight reduction. A switchable AWD system added to the efficiency by disengaging from the rear axle when not in use. The unique 'kneeling' rear seat facilitated up to 63.5 cubic feet (1,798 liters) of maximum cargo space.
Since its launch, the Equinox had seen over 2 million units sold, securing its spot as Chevrolet’s second-best retail selling vehicle, only trailing the Silverado. The 2018 model made its sales debut in North America during the first quarter of 2017 and extended its reach to approximately 115 additional global markets later in the year.
With the 2018 Equinox, Chevrolet demonstrated its commitment to revolutionizing its SUV business. By meticulously addressing the needs of the compact SUV customer, the Equinox stood as a testament to Chevrolet's balanced approach towards design, connectivity, safety, and performance.
-Ed
2018 Chevrolet Equinox
