The 2005 Chevrolet Equinox was a brand-new midsize sport utility vehicle launched to replace the late and unlamented Tracker. Based on the Saturn Vue, the '05 Equinox is a Chevy re-engineering that features more sheet metal, a longer wheelbase, and an improved power steering system.

The longer wheelbase is key to the roomy interior of the '05 Chevy Equinox. Although there's only seating for five passengers, the headroom and legroom are generous, even by SUV standards. There's plenty of cargo space in the 2005 Equinox as well.

One of the challenges around marketing the '05 Chevrolet Equinox was its positioning within the SUV market spectrum. A bit larger than compact SUVs like the Vue (or the Honda Element or Toyota RAV4), it's on the small side when measured up against established midsized SUVs like the Nissan Pathfinder or Chevrolet's own TrailBlazer.

Still, the low sticker price and wealth of standard features drew buyers to the 2005 Chevy Equinox. Even with its somewhat less than oomphy engine (a 3.4-liter V6 with an output of 185 horsepower and 210 lb.-ft. of torque), the Equinox offers solid transportation at an affordable price. Fuel efficiency is pretty good for its class - 19 mpg city, 25 mpg highway are the EPA estimates.