If you're a fan of the TV show "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," you know the shocked responses
that appear on the homeowners' face when Ty Pennington and his crew "move that bus" and reveal a newly refurbished home. Those same shocked looks were on display when Chevrolet took off the wraps from its new Equinox, which appears to be an SUV that costs twice the price. This vehicle screams precision—from its chrome trim on the front grille to its close-fitting body panels. The vehicle's refinement extends into the interior, which is a feast for the eyes (because of its flowing cockpit) and for the body (because of its spacious, comfortable rear seats).
We found the standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine to perform capably, but its 32 mpg rating might be the true clincher for budget-conscious families when it comes to choosing this powerplant. (An "eco" mode, which is activated via a console-mounted button, lowers the torque converter lockup speed to 1,125 rpm to help save fuel on models that are equipped with the 2.4-liter engine.) On the other hand, the optional 264-hp V6 engine makes these SUVs enjoyable to drive even on short jaunts.