Equinox: executing the Theta architecture in a bigger package; One of the faster-growing vehicle segments is that of the compact SUV. According to Chevy's Margaret Brooks, marketing director for the Equinox, it represented 7% of the U.S. market in 2003 and is on its way to 8.5% by '08. So Chevy is now in the game with the Equinox, its first "car-based" SUV

Automotive Design & Production, May, 2004 by Gary S. Vasilash

The Equinox also comes standard with an Aisin AF33-5 five speed automatic transmission. This is the same transmission that had been used for the VUE equipped with a six-cylinder engine--before the VUE switched to a Honda-supplied 3.5-liter, 250-hp six-cylinder engine and transmission package. Wazir says that a key reason why the Aisin transmission is used is because of its compact size: it has a 14-in. axial length.

So why the difference in the V6s? Why not offer the Honda engine/transmission package in the Equinox, as well. Wazir says one fundamental reason is value: the base MSRP for the V6 VUE is $22,405; the base MSRP for the Equinox is $20,995. And Chevrolet is meant to represent value.

The Equinox is available in either a two-wheel drive (front) or on-demand all-wheel-drive. When the all-wheel-drive system is engaged, about 33% of the power goes to the rear wheels. Because this system is automatic, and is engaged comparatively rarely, the estimated fuel economy numbers are the same for both versions: 19 city/25 highway.

* Equinox: Wheelbase: 112.5 in.: overall length: 188.8 in. Ford Escape: Wheelbase: 103.1 in.; overall length: 174.9 in. Jeep Liberty: Wheelbase: 104.3 in.; overall length: 174.4 in. Honda CR-V: Wheelbase: 103.1 in.; overall length: 178.6 in. Toyota RAV4: Wheelbase: 98 in.; overall length: 166.6 in. Hyundai Santa Fe: Wheelbase: 103.1 in.; overall length: 177.2 in. Kia Sarento; Wheelbase: 106.7 in.; overall length: 179.8 in.

By Gary S. Vasilash, Editor-In-Chief