Chevy offered an early look at the 2005 Equinox, an overgrown sport/cute based on the Theta platform shared by the Saturn Vue. Significantly larger and roomier than the current Tracker, the Slotting beneath the TrailBlazer, the Equinox will be competitive with newcomers like the Kia Sorento and Mitsubishi Outlander, and mainstays like the Ford Escape. To be offered in front and all-wheel drive configurations, the Equinox is powered by a 3.4-liter/185-horsepower V-6 with a five-speed automatic transmission. The soft-roader uses a McPherson strut front suspension with a four-link independent rear tuned for handling and comfort. The 187.3-inch Equinox will feature a litany of Chevy goodies, including traction control, roof rail curtain air bags, MP3 player, XM satellite radio, OnStar, and myriad power amenities. When the Equinox goes on sale in early 2004, it looks prepared to thrive in this developing market segment with an attractive combination of styling, versatility, power, and content.
