The 2012 Chevrolet Equinox stands out in the small SUV class for its affordable price, its high-powered engine, and its plethora of features. While the Honda CR-V has led this class for years, the Chevrolet Equinox is positioned to be a tough competitor.
Key Features
Of all the great features of the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox, we especially appreciate the height-adjustable tailgate. You’ll never have to worry about banging your tailgate on the ceiling of your garage when you open it because you can set how high it rises with this easy adjustment.
If you have kids, you’ll also enjoy the rear seat entertainment features in the Equinox, two seatback screens that operate independently from one another. Your backseat passengers can plug in and watch their own movies or play their own games without any debates over what to watch or play.
Changes for 2012
All trims of the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox now come standard with blind-spot mirrors to help you operate more safely, and if you choose the 1LT trim, you’ll get a rearview camera and a 7” color touch screen in the infotainment system. A standard USB port was also added for 1LT, 2LT, and LTZ trims.
What We Like
Driving the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox feels like you’re driving a midsize family sedan. It’s plush and comfortable, and it gets great gas mileage, but it can also handle rough terrain, and it has all the room you need for cargo and passengers.
What Concerns Us
If you have a bigger family or you need to carry a lot of gear, you may still find that an SUV with a third row of seats is the best way to go. While the Equinox is a great vehicle, it doesn’t have the same carrying capacity that larger SUVs have.
Available Models
The trims available for the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox include the LS, 1LT, 2LT, and LTZ. The 1LT, 2LT, and LTZ are also available in all-wheel drive options. Under the hood, you’ll have the option of either an inline four-cylinder engine or a V6:
- Engine – 2.4-liter 4-cylinder
- Power – 182 HP at 6700 RPM
- Torque – 182 lb-ft at 4900 RPM
- Fuel economy (MPG city/highway) – 22/32 (FWD), 20/29 (AWD)
- Engine – 3.0-liter V6
- Power – 264 HP at 6950 RPM
- Torque – 222 lb-ft at 5100 RPM
- Fuel economy (MPG city/highway) – 17/24 (FWD), 16/23 (AWD)
Major Recalls
There have been two major recalls for certain 2012 Chevrolet Equinox models. The first was to resolve an issue with the tire pressure monitor, and the second was to solve a problem with the seat height adjuster bolt falling out of some vehicles.
Common Issues
The most common complaint among 2012 Chevrolet Equinox owners is that some vehicles tends to use more oil than they would otherwise expect.
