With the second-generation Equinox receiving a major redesign in 2010, Chevrolet’s Equinox for 2011 remains pretty much unchanged. Still a pretty decent crossover SUV for the money, this five-passenger family vehicle boasts almost 69 cubic feet of cargo room with the rear seats folded, can be delivered with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), and is available with a V6 that allows some 3,500 pounds of towing capacity when properly equipped. Three trim levels grace the Equinox lineup, the base LS, midlevel LT, and high-end LTZ, with unibody construction allowing reasonably agile handing, while its hefty frame and high stance make it tolerably appropriate for trips to the lumber yard in less-than-ideal weather. Major competition for the Equinox includes Toyota’s RAV4, Honda’s CR-V, and Ford’s Escape.

Standard power for all 2011 Chevy Equinox trims comes in the form of a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder (I4) engine that’s managed by a six-speed transmission and puts out 182 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque. Variable valve timing helps keep mileage figures at a fairly impressive 22/32 mpg for FWD trims and 20/29 for AWD versions. Available for the LT and LTZ trims is a 3.0-liter variable-valve-timed V6, again with the six-speed auto-manual, putting out 264 hp and 222 lb-ft of torque and getting 17/25 with FWD and 17/24 with AWD. Additionally, AWD-equipped Equinox trims are equipped with a mechanical, center-mounted limited-slip differential.

Though a bit less than plush, the 2011 Equinox LS is expected to tote enough standard appearance, comfort, and convenience features to allow passengers way more than just minimum style and ease. Starting with 17-inch alloy wheels, the LS additionally features cloth upholstery, front bucket seats with a power-adjustable driver’s seat, keyless entry, power door locks, power windows and mirrors, cruise control, air conditioning, single-CD player with 80 watts of power and six speakers, XM satellite radio, and OnStar navigation. The notched-up LT, meantime, adds premium cloth upholstery, heated mirrors, rear-view camera, automatic climate control, remote start, Bluetooth technology, a USB connection, and an 8-speaker Pioneer premium audio system in the mix. The LTZ features such additional standard equipment as 18-inch alloy wheels, perforated leather upholstery, power liftgate, and driver memory settings.

Optional equipment for the Equinox lineup includes many standard items from the higher trims, while the LT and LTZ offer 18- or 19-inch upgraded wheels, DVD navigation, rear-seat DVD entertainment, and a power sunroof.

Standard safety equipment for the 2011 Equinox lineup includes four-wheel disc ABS, traction and stability control, front side-mounted airbags, front and rear head airbags, remote anti-theft alarm, daytime running lights, and the OnStar post-collision safety system. Additional safety features standard on the LT and LTZ include front fog/driving lights, while the LTZ boasts standard rear parking sensors.

Poor rearward visibility, a few issues with instrument and control placement, and some serious sun reflection off the interior simulated chrome cabin accents top the list of owner grievances with the 2010 Equinox. Opinion is divided regarding fuel efficiency, with some owners complaining that mileage with both the I4 and V6 engines is less than advertised, and others claiming excellent mileage. Pluses noted by owners include decent ride comfort and handling, good pickup with the V6, competent styling, and loads of cabin space. Furthermore, a significant majority of Equinox owners laud its better-than-average value.