2010 Chevrolet Equinox Reviews, Pricing & Specs

$22,615 to $29,970

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Overview

In this second generation of what is now a crossover, the Equinox enjoys new direct-injection engines, a new look, and some add-on...

In this second generation of what is now a crossover, the Equinox enjoys new direct-injection engines, a new look, and some add-on features. Available in LS, LT, and LTZ trim levels, this crossover shares its platform with the GMC Terrain and is available with front- or all-wheel drive across the model lineup, with all-wheel-drive versions getting a limited-slip differential. All engines and configurations come with a six-speed automatic transmission.

New for the 2010 model year are two direct-injection engines that promise performance comparable to last year's engines with improved economy. The base engine, a 182-hp, 2.4-liter Ecotec four-cylinder comes 3 horsepower shy of meeting the power output of the outgoing model’s base 3.4-liter V6. However, comparing torque the same way leaves the new 2.4-liter coming up 38 lb-ft short. The trade-off for that power loss is an increase in fuel economy, an impressive 21/30 mpg.

With a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds, the 2.4 won’t serve everyone’s needs, so Chevrolet also offers an optional 3,500-pound-capable 3.0-liter direct-injection V6. Producing 255 hp and 214 lb-ft of torque, this engine misses the outgoing 3.6-liter V6’s horsepower number by 9 and also falls short in torque, by 36 lb-ft. However, fuel economy is increased to 18/25. Special attention has been paid to the fuel injection system in this engine, with rubber isolators added to the fuel rail, eliminating metal-to-metal contact for quieter operation.

A four-wheel independent suspension enables nimble handling, and a wider front track than last year’s model's increases control and road feel. The power-assisted steering is now electronically controlled, which GM claims accounts for an increase of 11 miles per tank of gasoline. GM hopes these changes will result in better handling and composure over previous years, a point of contention with testers and owners alike. Four-wheel antilock disc brakes with brake assist come standard on all models, as well as traction control and a full range of airbags.

The new Chevrolet grille is found here, with its aggressive fender flares and retooled headlights, and the design continues throughout both the vehicle and the rest of the Chevrolet line. Similarly, the interior has been redesigned with a dual-cockpit layout and new controls and readouts as part of GM’s commitment to increasing the quality, fit, and finish of its vehicles, an area where its competitors have had the advantage of late. The overall redesign has also led to a more aerodynamic profile, resulting in a drag coefficient drop from 0.42 to 0.36. Couple this with the redesigned engines, no roof rack, and the optional 17-inch, low rolling resistance tires, and I wouldn’t be surprised if buyers will better the EPA's estimates. In fact, an ECO button on the dash will remap the transmission's shifting strategy and provide a more aggressive fuel shutoff when coasting, something the EPA takes into account only as part of an average when testing, so these are not unreasonable speculations.

by CarGurus Editorial Team

Published May 31, 2022

What owners say

AI Summary · 29 reviews

"Overall, drivers are quite pleased with the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox, appreciating its spaciousness, stylish design, and good gas mileage. Many highlighted the comfort and practicality it offers, making it a great value. However, some did express concerns about the vehicle burning oil and experiencing engine noise, particularly during acceleration. While it's generally seen as a reliable choice, there are mixed reviews regarding the audio system quality and performance in terms of acceleration."

4.7

29 reviews

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by Anonymous

Love the gas mileage and versatility. This car is so easy to drive and fun to look at. It also has an eco mode that gets you even better gas mileage. This is a great car for a family, college student or first time driver looking for economy and safety.

February 27, 2014

by Kent B

The Equinox is fun, drives and handles very well. It has not needed any repairs of any kinds. The new styling for 2010 is great! I get comments or questions on it almost daily, usually in a parking lot somewhere. I am getting twice the mileage as my trade in, so I am very pleased with the mileage and money I'm saving on gas. My only major complaint is that without mud flaps, the car gets really dirty driving in wet weather. I'll be getting front & back flaps from the dealership very soon!

February 18, 2010

by Anonymous

I bought my 2010 Nox LTZ on the last day of the Cash for Clunkers program. I traded in a 2000 Dodge Grand Caravan with 140,000 miles. I had to drive to Michigan from Alabama to find one with the features I wanted. I was originally looking for the 4 cyl version for the fuel economy, but was unable to find one in an LTZ. Also agonized over the interior color but am very satisfied now that I have settled on the Black/Light Platinum. 2010 LTZ- Loaded with everything except Chrome wheels/19” Tires, and AWD Cardinal Red 3.0 Liter V6 Jet Black/Silver Interior 18” Polished Aluminum Wheels So far the SUV has been wonderful to drive and a joy to own. I get frequent comments and questions about it and often see people checking it out when it’s parked in the parking lot of a restaurant or store. I had a 900 mile test drive coming back from Michigan and it was just a pleasure to drive. I enjoyed all the gadgets and after more than a month am still learning all the capabilities of the electronic wizardry. Some Positive Observations: All windows have express down. Usually only the driver’s window is so equipped….nice touch. The Drivers Information center located between the Tach and Speedometer gauges adds useful detail when using the NAV system. I knew I wanted to NAV system but I didn’t realize how much I would come to love and rely on it. I will never be lost again. Cup holders have a rubber insert that grips the cup making it virtually impossible for a cup of coffee to fall out of the holder. Something that was fairly common in my Caravan. I thought the Remote start would be a cool feature to have but it’s actually useful. In Alabama, the heat can be oppressive even in August/September. With a 195 foot range, I can start the car while I’m walking toward it and by the time I reach it, the AC has cooled the cabin to make it comfortable. No more getting into a oven hot car. I like that I can set a separate EQ for each favorite channel and audio source I select. The headlights are far better than any other car I’ve ever had. Distance and clarity is greatly improved. A GM car delivered with Michelin Tires instead of some cheap set of Firestone or General brand tires. Way to go GM! Some Negative Observations: Driver’s Seat Leather not pulled taught in one corner so it has a funny wrinkled look in that corner of the seat. Front headrests look great… Rear headrests appear as if headrest was wrapped in leather by an amateur or a small child. I will be taking it to the dealer for both of these issues. Pioneer 10 speaker system is good but not great. I have had cars with Bose and Infinity systems that sounded better. There is not as much bass as I expected from a system with a subwoofer. Also, the audio sounds good a low and moderate volume but seems harsh at louder volumes. Tone adjustments have not been able to improve this. Most people will not notice this and it could just be my 51 year old ears. When accelerating moderately hard, the vehicle accelerates smoothly at first but then there is a boost of energy similar to the delay you experience with a turbo charger. I don’t drive it hard very often so I am still evaluating this anomaly. Will update as I notice more.

September 28, 2009