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The Chevrolet Equinox is a small midsize crossover SUV that is priced and equipped to compete with compact SUVs. The Equinox uses a longer version of the Theta architecture that underpins the Saturn Vue, but the new model is about that same size as the old one. Theta is updated from the first-generation Equinox, and that's a good thing because the outgoing model didn't handle very well. The upcoming GMC Terrain will use the same platform. Up front, the Equinox features Chevrolet's now-signature two-tier grille with gold bowtie insignia. The headlights wrap around the front fenders. Air ducts sit below the headlights and, in models so equipped, they house fog lights in chromed bezels that bisect the openings. The lower front fascia is charcoal-colored plastic and it has an air damn in the center. The LTZ model and the 2LT with the Chrome Appearance Package add metallic trim pieces to the lower portion of the air damn opening. The hood has three character lines and is shorter than the last one because Chevrolet moved the base of the windshield forward three inches, creating a more slippery shape. The new Equinox has a 0.36 coefficient of drag versus the 0.42 CD of the outgoing model. Around the sides, the Equinox has pronounced fender flares and a wheels-at-the-corners stance, especially up front. The roof features wraparound side glass at the rear and tinted rear and rear side windows. All but the LS model has luggage side rails; they're charcoal on LT models and they add chrome inserts on the LTZ and the 2LT with the Chrome Appearance Package. That package also adds chrome door handles and side mirrors. Seventeen-inch aluminum wheels are standard and 18- and 19-inch wheels are available. At the rear, the Equinox has dual round taillights, a takeoff of the Malibu design, and a roof spoiler. The tailgate opens upward, and a class-exclusive power, programmable tailgate is offered. Owners can program the tailgate to open to different heights so shorter drivers can reach it. Overall, the look is attractive. The LTZ's additional chrome trim adds a touch of class, especially with the chromed 19-inch wheels.
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