I had quite the negative experience with the Equinox’s fraternal twin, the GMC Terrain, a couple years back, so expectations weren’t high for time spent with this Chevrolet. At the end of a week driving it, though, I emerged surprised and pleased.

That Terrain was motivated—if that’s the word—by a gutless, strident four cylinder engine. Not only did it lack power, but its fuel economy was abysmal. Despite strong EPA numbers of 20/29 with a combined rating of 23, we never got over 20.5mpg. You might think that was due to my lead-weighted foot, but not this time. That stellar number was achieved cruising down flat, strait interstates at legal(ish) velocities, on cruise control. Making it worse, four cylinder Terrains and Equinoxes get horrid electric-assist power steering. Not only does it have no real feel, but its highway tracking is nonexistent, requiring constant, fatiguing corrections from the driver.

So you can imagine how excited I was to get into an Equinox. But as I settled into its well built, attractively designed cockpit, my negativity began to dissipate. I had forgotten how nice it was inside these GM crossover twins.  It sure didn’t hurt that this loaded LTZ model had sweet two-tone leather (with bold red contrast stitching that even drew complements from a Range Rover-owning, interior designer friend) and all kinds of cool tech. But it was the way the six cylinder-powered Chevy went down the road that made all the difference.

That’s because the six has hydraulic power steering (don’t ask me why two different systems are used…). It tracked true on the super slab, carved corners, and allowed me to appreciate how well resolved the Chevy’s chassis was. It combines excellent composure with decent—if firm—ride motions and was an overall joy.

The optional 3.0-liter, 264hp V6 is willing and refined, but never moved the Equinox along like other small/midsize crossovers with similar outputs. Blame that on the lethargic—if smooth—6-speed automatic, whose mission in life is to maximize fuel economy. But that’s a loosing proposition, since even my front drive (hence lighter) test vehicle never got out of teenage numbers with me driving. That’s backed up its combined rating of 20mpg in mixed use, and is a testament to the several hundred extra pounds the Chevy and GMC carry over competitors. The upside is excellent refinement and commendable structural integrity. But it’s an issue that seems to blight several modern, if otherwise excellent, products from GM, ranging from the Cadillac SRX to Chevy Cruze.

At least the six gets basically the same fuel economy as the four in the real world, and you get the benefit of the better steering. And right now, with gas so cheap, Americans don’t seem to care: Based on sales volume and resale value, the Equinox is a home run. And as long as you skip that nasty “four banger” and go for the V6, I would concur with their enthusiasm for this Chevrolet.

EPA ratings (FWD) 17/24

Price as tested: $33,540

What Chevrolet has to say is here.

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