General Motors has fully revealed the new, 2018 Chevrolet Equinox – an SUV closely related to the Holden Captiva that has ostensibly been with us since 2006.
The all-new Equinox is based on the D2XX platform of the second-generation Cruze, and thus sheds 180kg from its predecessor, now weighing an impressive 1509kg.
The engine lineup mirrors that of Chevrolet’s Cruze, with a 1.5-litre turbo four-cylinder spewing out 127kW and 275Nm. Paired to a six-speed auto, it’s expected to return 7.6L/100km. Other engine options include a 2.0-litre 188kW/353Nm 2.0-litre turbo with a nine-speed auto and a 1.6-litre turbo-diesel with 101kW and 320Nm. They chew 8.4L/100km and 5.9L/100km, respectively.
Inside, the dash features either a 7.0- or 8.0-inch touch-screen MyLink interface, depending on the variant, along with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Other new technologies available for the model include surround-view monitoring, forward collision alert with low-speed auto braking, lane change alert, and a new safety alert seat technology. Cargo space is rated at 846L and 1798L with the rear seats folded.
It’s believed the Equinox will effectively be the replacement for the Captiva in Australia, ready to arrive some time in 2017. Holden has confirmed the larger Acadia is on its way as well, which could mean this American styling may give it family continuity. It is unknown if Opel will receive a successor to the Antara – its version of the Captiva.
