Quote:
Originally Posted by DWBur
Has anyone drove the Equinox with the 4 cylinder, and do you think it would it be acceptable to most drivers? I'm wondering how it would be at interstate speeds. I can't find one at any of the local dealers to test drive.
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As heavy as the Equinox is (all weigh ~3750-3850 Ibs regardless of year) and as little power as the 2.4L engine provides (182 HP, 172 Ibs-ft torque) you'll probably want to opt for the V6. I know the 3400 V6 (no longer used on newest models) in our 2007 Equinox has 185 HP/ 215 Ibs-ft torque and I consider it to be just above adequate. I couldn't imagine having any less power on tap.
I honestly don't know what GM was thinking by offering this vehicle with a four cylinder engine.
If fuel economy is what you're really concerned about, that V6 should fare pretty well with the 6-speed automatic. With much less power on tap (185 HP, 215 Ibs-Ft torque vs 264 HP, 222 IBs-Ft torque), a bigger displacement (old pushrod 3.4L V6 vs new direct-injection DOHC 3.0L V6), and only a 5-speed tranny, we average about 19-20 MPG city and 23-24 MPG highway (actual measurements, not just DIC fuel economy info). I've gotten as high as 26.5 MPG on a long highway trip. That was fully loaded, cruising at 75 MPH most of the way, and including a lot of pedal-to-the-metal accelerating/passing situations during the morning Five-O'Clock 500 through Chicago.
Here is a
link to Consumer Guide's review of the new 2010 Equinox.