The midsize 2009 Equinox offers the cargo capacity and seating flexibility of an SUV with the handling of a sedan, leading Chevrolet to dub the SUV its first crossover vehicle. With five trims to choose from, front-wheel- or all-wheel-drive capabilities, and dimensions that exceed those of its closest competitors, the 2009 Equinox rightly attracts families needing an affordable SUV.

The Equinox is set for a redesign in 2010, so it sees minimal additions for '09. Bluetooth is now standard across the line, and three new exterior colors join the list. Most important is the addition of side head curtain airbags with rollover sensors, boosting the Equinox's already high safety ratings. With traction and stability control, ABS brakes, dual front-side airbags, anti-sway control, and OnStar, the crossover wins five stars in all NHTSA categories except for rollovers, where it earns four stars.

Standard for the LS, LT, and luxury LTZ trims is a 3.4-liter V6. Paired with a 5-speed automatic, it puts out 185 hp and 210 lb-ft of torque, with 17/24 mpg. The Sport trim features a sport-tuned suspension, distinctive front and rear designs, a lower ride height, and alloy wheels. It also carries a stronger and louder 3.6-liter, 264-hp V6 and 6-speed automatic that achieve 16/24 mpg. Some professional reviews feel the larger V6 is too loud and unrefined and prefer the non-Sport trims. Handling in the Sport can feel vague and imprecise, and the stiffer suspension picks out all the bumps in the road. Acceleration is quick and responsive, but the wide turning radius impedes city maneuverability, and the thick rear pillars can obstruct rear visibility.

The 2009 Equinox shines on the inside. The Equinox is longer than the Ford Escape and Toyota RAV4 and also taller, so it offers plenty of head and legroom to accommodate passengers over 6 feet tall. The rear seats slide forward and back 8 inches to allow for extra leg or storage room. They split 60/40, but do not fold completely flat. The front passenger seat also folds down to hold longer objects. A roof rack is standard on all trims but the Sport, and the cargo area expands from 35 to 69 cubic feet. Oddly, the Equinox lacks adequate interior storage compartments.

A capable family vehicle praised for its interior capacity, the 2009 Equinox lacks the refinement of the RAV4 and even the Hyundai Tucson. The crossover is set to receive an update for 2010, which may make it a more viable domestic alternative to its more popular competitors.