2011 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Equinox Buying Guide

2011 Chevrolet Equinox

 If you are looking for a midsize SUV that has room, comfort and affordability, then the Chevrolet Equinox is a good option to consider.
U.S.News has ranked the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox 1 out of 23 Affordable Compact SUVs, saying “The Equinox only starts at about $1,000 more than affordable small SUV class favorites like the Honda CR-V, and it even gets better fuel economy. Because of its price and gas mileage, combined with a roomy interior, most reviewers say the Equinox is a good deal.”
Detroit News says, “Well priced, fuel efficient and nicely appointed, the Equinox sets a new benchmark for every automaker.”
There have been a few complaints about the 2011 Equinox’s slightly underpowered thrifty four-cylinder, as well as too many buttons on the dash. However, you will a compact SUV that has a well-liked exterior, and a high-quality, quiet interior cabin. The Chevrolet Equinox also has great versatility with sliding rear seats.
Now that we are well into 2011, we are getting closer to the release of the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox, which should be in showrooms by autumn this year. That may leave you wondering if you should wait to purchase the 2012 model.
Changes for the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox will probably be in at few extra color choices, taillamp tin, and wheel style. iGuida says, “The core values of this five-passenger crossover won’t change, so waiting for the 2012 model isn’t likely to prove worthwhile. In fact, this SUV is due some revisions for model-year 2013, so buying a 2012 Equinox means you’d have just one season to enjoy its styling before a fresher version hits the streets.” That being said, the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox would be your best option, unless you can wait till 2013.
Another option would be to consider other compact SUVs in the same class, such as the Nissan Murano or Ford Edge. Both have higher starting prices than the 2011 Chevy Equinox (the Nissan Murano will cost you over $5,000 more and the Ford Edge starts at over $4,5000 more.) However, both both have standard V6 power and offer more cargo space than the Equinox’s 63.7 cubic foot capacity.
On the cheaper end, you can consider the Honda CR-V or the Toyota RAV4. Both cost roughly $1,000 less than the base Equinox. They have worse fuel economy than the 2011 Equinox, but the Honda CR-V has extra 9.2 cubic feet of cargo capacity, and the Toyota RAV4 has an optional V6 and third-row of seats.
As U.S.News points out, “unless you need a third row, the Equinox’s mid-size SUV space, coupled with its compact SUV price and terrific gas mileage should place it on most buyers’ short lists.” The 2011 Chevrolet starts selling at $22,995.