For years it was enough to just have an entry in the compact SUV segment. It didn't matter how boring or poorly packaged it was. Most were just that and sold fine anyways. Now, with the current annual automotive market sales rate sitting just under 10 million cars a year and this segment eating up a solid 10 percent of that, there's no room to be just "okay." The competition is cutthroat in this bread-and-butter class, so in order to be anything but an also ran, you have to be outstanding.

The 2010 Equinox approaches this ruthless market with a giant banner tied to it shouting about its fuel economy. It beats out the main competition from Honda, Ford, and Toyota in all trim levels in both city and highway figures. The 188 HP, 2.4-liter direct injection four-cylinder in front wheel drive form claims a 22/32 MPG city/highway fuel economy figure, with the bigger, and mildly more satisfy 264 HP 3.0-liter V6 clocking in at 18/25 MPG. In comparison, the four-cylinder 2009 Toyota RAV4 returns just 21 MPG city/27 highway while making nine less HP.

Both engines get a six speed automatic transmission, optional all-wheel drive and are available with every trim level except the low-end LS, which is available with the four-cylinder only. For those looking for even more economy — and despite sensationalist reporting by our peers — we were given a strong "negatory" on the possibility of a hybrid in the near future and no possibility of dropping the platform-mate Saturn Vue's dual mode hybrid powertrain into the engine bay.

For the vast majority of buyers, the DI 2.4-liter with FWD will be totally adequate. It's responsive without protest, returns a workable 8.7-second 0-to-60 MPH time and, yes Virginia, it does get 32 MPG. With the "Eco" button pressed, the torque converter locks up sooner and shift points move down the revs, but it doesn't suck the life out of throttle response as on the Prius and Insight. As a trade off, it also only gives up an extra 1 MPG. With "ECO" lit up on our gauge cluster and under highway conditions, the on-board mileage computer spat out a respectable 32.1 MPG, certainly not scientific, but it means the figure is at least plausible. Everyday mixed use saw an average of about 28.2 MPG, even accounting for our leaden foot. The thirstier V6 with all-wheel-drive returned 21.8 under mixed use and the four-cylinder with all-wheel drive managed 23 MPG.

We're kind of wondering why GM even bothered with the Eco-mode button. Unless you're really leaning on the car, you'll never notice a difference with it on, and the one mile per gallon difference seems silly for the trouble of a button that'll probably always be in "on" mode.

Mileage stuff is boring though. The drive is what's important to us and here the Theta-platformed Equinox delivers like its Japanese competitors don't. Despite the Michelin low rolling resistance tires, road feel is actually not too bad, body control is excellent for the segment, pushing the vehicle further into the territory of car-like feel than its predecessor. Understeer comes on a bit abruptly, but let's be honest here, this rig ain't going to see an autocross course any time soon. Shifting isn't exactly a drama-filled experience, but it's not hunting for gears and getting in the way. As with most recent GM autoboxes, you can manually control it with a shifter-mounted rocker switch. If you're in a sporting (but not too sporting, this is a compact SUV) mood, running up to the 7,000 RPM rev limiter is pretty fun and far more exciting than mashing the gas and waiting for a downshift. Steering is electronically boosted, but not overly light.

That the powertrain is wrapped in an all-new body seems to be secondary to the competent performance, but we'd be remiss in failing to mention the looks. Along with the maximum fuel economy slathered across giant flashing billboards and proclaimed from the heavens in skywriting, GM will be touting the style. Inside and out the Equinox gets thoroughly updated everything, borrowing liberally from the precedent-setting Malibu which was a breath of fresh air in Chevy's previously stinky automotive stable. It's got a clean, modern look, which is simultaneously inoffensive and handsome.

Which brings us to the interior, a traditional GM weak point. Make that a really weak point. While the Equinox delivers in spades when it comes to interior style — and at all trim levels we might add — it still, in our mind, falls a bit short of where we wish it would be. We have to keep price point in mind when we're talking about this segment, and while we'd have loved soft-touch plastics, you get solidly constructed rubberized plastic — like all the competition. There's plenty of storage and it passes the knock test (Jalopnik patent pending) on everything but the gauge hood, which isn't something often interacted with. Ergonomically, everything works fairly well, though the driver's reach for some radio adjustments and the far corners of the touch screen nav system are excessively long. The centralized switch panel works nicely and consolidates everything for easy control.

Where the interior excels is with the seats. Here's the weird thing, the cloth option is way better than the leather. It's a sporty, airy neoprene-like material that's grippy and comfortable. Stretched over dual density foam, we sat in complete comfort for hours of driving. The back seats have the benefit of fore and aft adjustments to make way for legs or cargo, whichever is most pressing, and the seat backs recline to a comfortable angle, should you get bored of watching the optional flip-up DVD players.

What's missing from the cabin is noise. Acoustics engineers bent over backwards to make this thing insanely quiet, it's got acoustic glass surrounding the front passengers, spray-in-place sound deadening, triple door seals and active noise cancellation through the standard subwoofer; the end result is a remarkably quiet cabin. Not just for the segment, for the market. It's not quite at Lexus levels, but us even mentioning that in the same company of a mere Chevy says something.

The bottom line comes down to the bottom line. The Equinox in base LS trim with the 2.4-Liter and front-wheel drive starts at $23,185, a full $1,825 cheaper than the last model. A fully loaded LTZ with all the bells and whistles should top the charts at around $35k, but nobody will buy that car, because it's totally unnecessary. Buying the cheap model doesn't mean you have to suffer el-cheapo plastics, harsh NVH and hideous seats. With the Equinox, GM figures it's providing more interior room, more standard equipment, higher fuel economy and better design at competitive pricing. After this first look, we're inclined to agree. You'd have to put a gun to our heads to get us to buy an entry-level compact SUV, but if we had no choice, we'd go for the new Equinox.

The all-new Equinox is just like the original, only better. A solid people mover, GM has improved engine and transmission choices while tweaking styling for an aggressive but paunchy look. The interior gets friendlier with plenty improved feel compared to it's predecessor. Think of it as a Malibu wagon, only well fed.

The official press release waits for you below:

2010 CHEVROLET EQUINOX: A COMPACT CROSSOVER FOR ALL SEASONS – AND ALL LIFESTYLES

All-new crossover delivers expected segment-best highway fuel economy

DETROIT – Chevrolet unveiled the all-new 2010 Equinox, a compact crossover that blends distinctive design with outstanding efficiency. A new, 2.4L direct injection engine helps the Equinox deliver expected best-in-segment estimated highway fuel economy of 30 mpg (EPA certification pending) – a 25-percent improvement over the previous model. Chevrolet expects nearly two-thirds of customers will choose the efficient, 2.4L engine.

The new Equinox draws its exterior design inspiration from the Chevrolet Malibu sedan and Traverse crossover; and like those vehicles, the new Equinox complements its styling with attention to detail and unexpected features, according to Ed Peper, GM North America vice president, Chevrolet.

The Equinox makes its world debut at the North American Auto Show in Detroit next month.

“At a time when customers are so concerned about the fuel efficiency of their vehicle, the Equinox delivers,” said Peper. “It offers the roominess and capability of a crossover with great fuel economy. Equinox will provide customers a vehicle filled with refinement, comfort and great value.”

The 2010 Equinox goes on sale in mid-2009. It is available in LS, LT and LTZ trim, with available all-wheel-drive. Two new engines are offered, each with fuel-saving direct injection and variable valve timing technology. Vehicle highlights include:
New 2.4L Ecotec direct injected I-4 engine estimated at 182 horsepower (135 kW), which delivers an estimated 30 mpg highway, 21 mpg city (EPA certification pending)
New 3.0L DOHC direct injected V-6 engine estimated at 255 horsepower (190 kW), which delivers an estimated 25 mpg highway, 18 mpg city (EPA certification pending)
Driving range of more than 500 miles (800 km) with both engines, for less-frequent fill-ups
Six standard air bags: dual frontal air bags; head curtain side air bags and pelvic/thorax seat-mounted side air bags
Standard four-wheel disc brakes with StabiliTrak electronic stability control and traction control
Standard OnStar and XM Satellite Radio
“Smart” remote starting system that also activates the HVAC system and optional heated seats depending on the outside temperature

“With the 2010 Equinox, we focused on appealing to the senses – from the overall design to the feel of the interior,” said Peper.

Design details
The design features Chevy’s signature global face – the two-tier grille and prominent gold Bowtie insignia. Strong fender shapes, a distinctive premium roofline, wraparound headlamps and dual round taillamps are additional elements that define Equinox as a true Chevrolet, Peper said.

“The new Equinox blends function and style into a very sporty, yet upscale compact crossover,” said Ed Welburn, vice president of GM Global Design. “Both the exterior and interior surprise and delight with careful attention to detail.”

Additional design features include:
A multi-dimensional hood and wraparound rear side glass and a wheels-at-the-corners stance
Improved aerodynamic performance through a number of carefully designed exterior features, including moving the base of the windshield forward approximately three inches (75 mm) for a sleeker profile

Equinox’s rocker panels are integrated into the doors to make it easier to get in and out of the vehicle. They narrow the area over which a passenger must step, offering protection for pant legs that could brush against dirty rockers. Also, the select use of chrome trim and flush-fitting ”exposed-edge” windshield and rear glass reinforce Equinox’s build quality and reduce wind noise.

Dimensionally, the Equinox rides on the same 112.5-inch wheelbase (2,857 mm), but is about one inch (25 mm) shorter in length and an inch wider. It also has a wider front track that enhances the ride and handling.

Interior amenities, storage and flexibility
Inside, the Equinox features attention to detail – including a number of storage bins, such as an oversized glove box; a closed storage bin in the instrument panel above the center stack; and closed storage under the center armrest large enough for a laptop computer.

A “floating” center stack houses a multitude of ergonomic comfort and convenience controls. Contemporary, ice-blue ambient lighting – featured within and surrounding the center stack, encircling the center-console cupholders and within the door pull cups – accentuates the cabin. The front and rear seats, which include cloth and uplevel, perforated leather-trimmed offerings, were developed to help deliver best-in-class comfort.

The new Equinox retains its MultiFlex rear seat capability, which allows the seat to be moved fore or aft nearly eight inches (203 mm), for the best rear legroom in its class. With the 60/40-split-back rear seat moved all the way forward, the cargo area offers 31.4 cubic feet (889 liters) of storage.

The Equinox’s cabin is notable for its quietness. Noise-absorbing elements are built into the chassis, engine compartment and interior.

Convenience, infotainment and connectivity
A variety of technologies are integrated in the Equinox, such as an available seven-inch touch-screen navigation system. Additional features also include:
Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity
USB audio connectivity
DVD-based rear-seat entertainment system with two independent screens to enable DVD viewing on one and gaming on the other
Internal memory/hard drive on uplevel radios for storing audio selections
Power, programmable rear liftgate
Rear-vision camera system, with display in the rearview mirror or in the navigation screen
Range of premium-feature audio systems with up to eight speakers and 250 watts of output

Chassis and suspension
The 2010 Equinox is built on a body-integral structure with single-piece body side stampings and targeted applications of high-strength steel. Those elements form the foundation of a solid, quiet driving experience, according to Peper. The strong structure enabled engineers to tune the four-wheel-independent suspension system for greater control and driver feedback.

Standard and available features include:
Available all wheel drive
Family of 17-, 18- and 19-inch alloy wheels
Fuel-saving electric power steering system

The rack-mounted electric power steering system provides greater fuel efficiency of on 2.4L-equipped models that saves nearly 11 miles per tank of gas, or about 572 miles per year (assuming one fill-up per week). With the Equinox’s estimated 30 mpg on the highway, the electric power steering system saves the equivalent of approximately one tank of gas each year.

“With the outstanding interior execution and comfort, the stunning exterior design, numerous chassis improvements, and the connectivity to the outside world, the new Equinox is the favorite ride among our engineers,” said Tim Herrick, chief engineer. “I have to pull the keys out of their hands in order to take it for a spin myself.”

Chevrolet is one of America’s best-known and best-selling automotive brands. With the largest dealer network in the United States, Chevrolet delivers more-than-expected value in every vehicle category, offering cars and trucks priced from $12,120 to $103,300. Chevy delivers expressive design, spirited performance and great value with standard features usually found only on more expensive vehicles. More information on Chevrolet can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

Specifications:

GENERAL MOTORS’ NEWEST ENGINES HELP SAVE FUEL AND MONEY

New technologies and vehicle enhancements will enable GM’s 2009 domestic car and light truck lineups to save 700 million gallons of fuel over vehicle life as compared to the 2008 GM fleet
Chevy Equinox four-cylinder model to offer class-leading highway fuel economy

PONTIAC, Mich. – Owners of the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox crossover will hit the streets next summer in a vehicle equipped with a highly efficient, all-new engine that will help save both fuel and money.

The 2010 Equinox will be offered with a choice of two new direct injected (DI) engines that use less fuel yet make more power – a 2.4L four-cylinder and a 3.0L V-6. The 2.4L engine delivers an estimated 30 mpg in highway driving (EPA certification pending), placing the Equinox at the top of its segment in highway mileage. Consumers who drive the 2.4L-equipped Equinox 15,000 miles per year will save 134 gallons of fuel or about $270 to $400 annually (assuming gas prices of $2 or $3 per gallon as compared to 2008MY Equinox).

The Equinox will join a growing roster of direct injected vehicles from GM, including the all-new 2010 Cadillac SRX crossover and 2010 Buick LaCrosse sedan, which, along with the Equinox, debut in January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. In fact, for the 2010 model year, GM will offer more DI models in North America than any other manufacturer.

“We first introduced direct injection in North America in the 2007 Saturn Sky Red Line and the Pontiac Solstice GXP,” said Tom Stephens, executive vice president, GM Global Powertrain and Global Quality. “We’ve been rolling out the technology across our portfolio as quickly as we can so that our customers will have additional fuel savings options. Direct injection is a state-of-the art engineering solution because it enables improved fuel economy and lower emissions without sacrificing power.”

In the 2009 model year, GM offers six engines in 18 models globally with direct injection. By 2010, GM will have eight direct injected engines in 38 vehicle models, covering 10 percent of its global volume. In North America alone, GM will offer 18 models with direct injection.

GM’s fuel-saving lineup
GM’s direct injection push is part of a larger effort to implement multiple fuel-saving technologies across its 2009 portfolio. The all-new 2009 Chevy Traverse crossover, for example, enjoys best-in-class highway fuel economy (24 mpg for FWD models) of any eight-passenger SUV, thanks in part to its 3.6L direct injected V-6 engine with variable valve timing. In 2009, GM expects to sell 500,000 vehicles with gasoline direct injection.
Here are additional fuel-saving facts about GM vehicles:
Twenty models in GM’s 2009 lineup deliver EPA-rated highway fuel economy of 30 mpg or more – more than any other automaker. GM’s non-hybrid models rank first in highway fuel economy in both the midsize sedan and subcompact segments. (Chevrolet Malibu, Saturn Aura with 33 highway mpg; and Chevrolet Colbalt XFE and Pontiac G5 XFE at 37 highway mpg.)
GM’s 2009 domestic car and light truck lineups will use 700 million fewer gallons of fuel than the 2008 lineup, during the life of the vehicles, saving $1.4 to $2.1 billion in fuel costs, assuming gas prices of $2 to $3 per gallon. It’s estimated that GM’s 2010 lineup will add another 1.1 billion gallons of fuel savings and $2.2 to $3.3 billion, relative to the 2008 lineup.

GM’s advanced engine technologies are already saving fuel today in vehicles on the road or expected to be sold in 2009. They include:
More than 3.7 million vehicles with variable valve timing (VVT)
700,000 vehicles with direct injection
600,000 vehicles with Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation technology, which automatically lets the engine run on half of its cylinders when full power is not needed
200,000 vehicles with turbocharged gas engines
42,000 vehicles with both direct injection and turbocharging
More than 2 million vehicles with fuel-saving six-speed transmissions

2.4L DI details
The new 2.4L DI engine delivers an estimated 180 horsepower (134 kW) @ 6700 rpm and 172 lb.-ft. of torque (232 Nm) @4900 rpm. It uses technology based on GM’s other four-cylinder direct injection applications, but with unique features designed for its specific application. This includes an 11.4:1 compression ratio that helps build power, slightly dished pistons that increase combustion efficiency and injectors with an application-specific flow rate.

GM benchmarked the best fuel system and noise attenuation products to provide customers with quiet operation.

3.0L DI details
The new 3.0L DI engine is a variant of GM’s family of high-feature DOHC V-6 engines that also includes GM’s 3.6L DI engine in the Cadillac CTS – an engine named to Ward’s AutoWorld’s 2009 “Ten Best Engines” list for North America, for the second consecutive year.

The 3.0L is rated at an estimated 255 horsepower (187 kW) and 214 lb.-ft. of torque (290 Nm), for an impressive power-to-displacement ratio of 85 hp per liter. (Output will vary by model.) The 3.0L DI features an isolated fuel injector system that reduces the direct injection high-pressure fuel system pulses for quieter operation. Rubber isolators are used with the fuel rail to eliminate metal-to-metal contact that would otherwise transmit noise and vibration from the high-pressure fuel system.

Along with direct injection technology, both the 3.0L DI and 2.4L DI engines use variable valve timing to optimize power and fuel efficiency across the rpm band, as well as reduce emissions.

How DI works
In a conventionally port fuel injected engine, air and fuel are mixed before they enter the combustion chamber. With GM’s DI engines, fuel is sprayed directly into the cylinder where it is mixed with air. As the piston approaches top-dead center, the mixture is ignited by the spark plug; and when the fuel vaporizes in the cylinder, the air and fuel mixture is cooled. This enables the use of a higher compression ratio in the combustion chamber, which improves the engine’s power and efficiency.

On cold starts, direct injection can be controlled to create a richer air/fuel mixture around the spark plug, making it easier to ignite in a cold engine. This results in a smoother operation of the engine and lower emissions during the cold start and warm-up, when most harmful tailpipe emissions are typically created. GM’s direct injected engines reduce cold-start vehicle emissions by 25 percent.

Because the fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber, direct injection uses higher fuel pressure than conventional fuel injected engines. This is enabled by a special high pressure pump driven by one of the engine’s camshafts.

The all-new 2010 Chevrolet Equinox builds on the the previous model with more of what segment buyers are looking for across pretty much every aspect. Better interior, better styling, better engines, better transmissions and smarter features. You can bet GM will be trumpeting from the heavens the new Equinox's 30 MPG highway rating when optioned with the direct injection 2.4 liter four cylinder and standard six speed transmission, but we've seen the little SUV in the sheetmetal and we're happy to say the Equinox isn't just a fuel economy figure.

The new Equinox takes styling inspiration mainly from the Chevy Malibu, but there are hints of other cars in the lineup as well. Outside we see the Equinox gets the new Chevy face, first seen on the Malibu, with a bit more curvaceousness in the headlights and a bit of extra chrome around the fog lamps. The sides get a heaping helping of styling with big fender flares over your choice of 16, 17 or 18 inch wheels, and a strong shoulder line runs front to back to link everything together. We think the Hofmeister kink at the back of the rear door glass is both amusing and cool looking. The design of the doors has been changed so they extend all the way though the rocker panel, virtually eliminating stepover height. The rear... looks like an SUV.

From a mechanical standpoint, the Equinox will come with a duo of engines, both sporting fancy direct injection technology and fuel sipping credentials for their size — there's even an "Eco" button on the center console which changes the fuel mapping and shift points to give you an extra mile per gallon or two. You get your pick of a 2.4 liter inline four with 185 HP and a 3.0 liter V6 with 255 HP. The I4 puts down 21 city, 30 mpg highway, while the V6 is a bit more thirsty at 18 mpg city, 25 mpg highway. Both of those engines get backed with their own standard six speed transmissions with front wheel drive standard, all wheel drive optional.

Nobody buying in this segment cares about those greasy bits though. The interior, on the other hand, is something that will demand consumer attentions. Again, the Equinox takes inspiration from the Malibu inside, with a similar dashboard layout, contrasting materials and stitching, and handsome details.. Amusingly though, it also takes its gauges from the perennially just around the corner 2010 Camaro. GM is also pretty excited about the ambient lighting peppering the interior, though lighting never really has rung our bell. What is bell-ringing are the seats, the gadgets the storage and the legroom.

Those seats are supportive and comfortable, with excellent leather and plenty of adjustability to get everyone where they want to be, obviously we can't make a call on how good they are after four hours of drive time. Between those front seats is a cavernous storage bin deep enough for a couple of full size laptops and houses the USB port and a 12 volt power port. Front and back passengers get huge amounts of legroom, and with the second row keeping the sliding and reclining 60/40 split bench it's practically limo-like in the rear. Order the optional independent dual rear flip-up DVD players and you'll never hear a peep from the back. Even with the rear seats pushed all the way back, cargo room is downright generous. And getting to that cargo area gets clever as the power lift gate is now programmable. Silly until you think about it — you can program the maximum opening height so it doesn't smash into your low clearance garage door.

Overall first impression without having driven it or lived with it for a while is positive. The styling will leave some wanting more but the mileage figures are impressive for this segment and the interior is, dare we say it, actually pretty nice. We're looking forward to seeing how this new crop of direct injection engines and their six speed transmissions perform out on the road. Look for the debut in January at the Detroit Auto Show and until then, enjoy the complete details below.

2010 CHEVROLET EQUINOX: A COMPACT CROSSOVER FOR ALL SEASONS – AND ALL LIFESTYLES

All-new crossover delivers expected segment-best highway fuel economy

DETROIT – Chevrolet unveiled the all-new 2010 Equinox, a compact crossover that blends distinctive design with outstanding efficiency. A new, 2.4L direct injection engine helps the Equinox deliver expected best-in-segment estimated highway fuel economy of 30 mpg (EPA certification pending) – a 25-percent improvement over the previous model. Chevrolet expects nearly two-thirds of customers will choose the efficient, 2.4L engine.

The new Equinox draws its exterior design inspiration from the Chevrolet Malibu sedan and Traverse crossover; and like those vehicles, the new Equinox complements its styling with attention to detail and unexpected features, according to Ed Peper, GM North America vice president, Chevrolet.

The Equinox makes its world debut at the North American Auto Show in Detroit next month.

“At a time when customers are so concerned about the fuel efficiency of their vehicle, the Equinox delivers,” said Peper. “It offers the roominess and capability of a crossover with great fuel economy. Equinox will provide customers a vehicle filled with refinement, comfort and great value.”

The 2010 Equinox goes on sale in mid-2009. It is available in LS, LT and LTZ trim, with available all-wheel-drive. Two new engines are offered, each with fuel-saving direct injection and variable valve timing technology. Vehicle highlights include:
New 2.4L Ecotec direct injected I-4 engine estimated at 182 horsepower (135 kW), which delivers an estimated 30 mpg highway, 21 mpg city (EPA certification pending)
New 3.0L DOHC direct injected V-6 engine estimated at 255 horsepower (190 kW), which delivers an estimated 25 mpg highway, 18 mpg city (EPA certification pending)
Driving range of more than 500 miles (800 km) with both engines, for less-frequent fill-ups
Six standard air bags: dual frontal air bags; head curtain side air bags and pelvic/thorax seat-mounted side air bags
Standard four-wheel disc brakes with StabiliTrak electronic stability control and traction control
Standard OnStar and XM Satellite Radio
“Smart” remote starting system that also activates the HVAC system and optional heated seats depending on the outside temperature

“With the 2010 Equinox, we focused on appealing to the senses – from the overall design to the feel of the interior,” said Peper.

Design details
The design features Chevy’s signature global face – the two-tier grille and prominent gold Bowtie insignia. Strong fender shapes, a distinctive premium roofline, wraparound headlamps and dual round taillamps are additional elements that define Equinox as a true Chevrolet, Peper said.

“The new Equinox blends function and style into a very sporty, yet upscale compact crossover,” said Ed Welburn, vice president of GM Global Design. “Both the exterior and interior surprise and delight with careful attention to detail.”

Additional design features include:
A multi-dimensional hood and wraparound rear side glass and a wheels-at-the-corners stance
Improved aerodynamic performance through a number of carefully designed exterior features, including moving the base of the windshield forward approximately three inches (75 mm) for a sleeker profile

Equinox’s rocker panels are integrated into the doors to make it easier to get in and out of the vehicle. They narrow the area over which a passenger must step, offering protection for pant legs that could brush against dirty rockers. Also, the select use of chrome trim and flush-fitting ”exposed-edge” windshield and rear glass reinforce Equinox’s build quality and reduce wind noise.

Dimensionally, the Equinox rides on the same 112.5-inch wheelbase (2,857 mm), but is about one inch (25 mm) shorter in length and an inch wider. It also has a wider front track that enhances the ride and handling.

Interior amenities, storage and flexibility
Inside, the Equinox features attention to detail – including a number of storage bins, such as an oversized glove box; a closed storage bin in the instrument panel above the center stack; and closed storage under the center armrest large enough for a laptop computer.

A “floating” center stack houses a multitude of ergonomic comfort and convenience controls. Contemporary, ice-blue ambient lighting – featured within and surrounding the center stack, encircling the center-console cupholders and within the door pull cups – accentuates the cabin. The front and rear seats, which include cloth and uplevel, perforated leather-trimmed offerings, were developed to help deliver best-in-class comfort.

The new Equinox retains its MultiFlex rear seat capability, which allows the seat to be moved fore or aft nearly eight inches (203 mm), for the best rear legroom in its class. With the 60/40-split-back rear seat moved all the way forward, the cargo area offers 31.4 cubic feet (889 liters) of storage.

The Equinox’s cabin is notable for its quietness. Noise-absorbing elements are built into the chassis, engine compartment and interior.

Convenience, infotainment and connectivity
A variety of technologies are integrated in the Equinox, such as an available seven-inch touch-screen navigation system. Additional features also include:
Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity
USB audio connectivity
DVD-based rear-seat entertainment system with two independent screens to enable DVD viewing on one and gaming on the other
Internal memory/hard drive on uplevel radios for storing audio selections
Power, programmable rear liftgate
Rear-vision camera system, with display in the rearview mirror or in the navigation screen
Range of premium-feature audio systems with up to eight speakers and 250 watts of output

Chassis and suspension
The 2010 Equinox is built on a body-integral structure with single-piece body side stampings and targeted applications of high-strength steel. Those elements form the foundation of a solid, quiet driving experience, according to Peper. The strong structure enabled engineers to tune the four-wheel-independent suspension system for greater control and driver feedback.

Standard and available features include:
Available all wheel drive
Family of 17-, 18- and 19-inch alloy wheels
Fuel-saving electric power steering system

The rack-mounted electric power steering system provides greater fuel efficiency of on 2.4L-equipped models that saves nearly 11 miles per tank of gas, or about 572 miles per year (assuming one fill-up per week). With the Equinox’s estimated 30 mpg on the highway, the electric power steering system saves the equivalent of approximately one tank of gas each year.

“With the outstanding interior execution and comfort, the stunning exterior design, numerous chassis improvements, and the connectivity to the outside world, the new Equinox is the favorite ride among our engineers,” said Tim Herrick, chief engineer. “I have to pull the keys out of their hands in order to take it for a spin myself.”

Chevrolet is one of America’s best-known and best-selling automotive brands. With the largest dealer network in the United States, Chevrolet delivers more-than-expected value in every vehicle category, offering cars and trucks priced from $12,120 to $103,300. Chevy delivers expressive design, spirited performance and great value with standard features usually found only on more expensive vehicles. More information on Chevrolet can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

Specifications:

GENERAL MOTORS’ NEWEST ENGINES HELP SAVE FUEL AND MONEY

New technologies and vehicle enhancements will enable GM’s 2009 domestic car and light truck lineups to save 700 million gallons of fuel over vehicle life as compared to the 2008 GM fleet
Chevy Equinox four-cylinder model to offer class-leading highway fuel economy

PONTIAC, Mich. – Owners of the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox crossover will hit the streets next summer in a vehicle equipped with a highly efficient, all-new engine that will help save both fuel and money.

The 2010 Equinox will be offered with a choice of two new direct injected (DI) engines that use less fuel yet make more power – a 2.4L four-cylinder and a 3.0L V-6. The 2.4L engine delivers an estimated 30 mpg in highway driving (EPA certification pending), placing the Equinox at the top of its segment in highway mileage. Consumers who drive the 2.4L-equipped Equinox 15,000 miles per year will save 134 gallons of fuel or about $270 to $400 annually (assuming gas prices of $2 or $3 per gallon as compared to 2008MY Equinox).

The Equinox will join a growing roster of direct injected vehicles from GM, including the all-new 2010 Cadillac SRX crossover and 2010 Buick LaCrosse sedan, which, along with the Equinox, debut in January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. In fact, for the 2010 model year, GM will offer more DI models in North America than any other manufacturer.

“We first introduced direct injection in North America in the 2007 Saturn Sky Red Line and the Pontiac Solstice GXP,” said Tom Stephens, executive vice president, GM Global Powertrain and Global Quality. “We’ve been rolling out the technology across our portfolio as quickly as we can so that our customers will have additional fuel savings options. Direct injection is a state-of-the art engineering solution because it enables improved fuel economy and lower emissions without sacrificing power.”

In the 2009 model year, GM offers six engines in 18 models globally with direct injection. By 2010, GM will have eight direct injected engines in 38 vehicle models, covering 10 percent of its global volume. In North America alone, GM will offer 18 models with direct injection.

GM’s fuel-saving lineup
GM’s direct injection push is part of a larger effort to implement multiple fuel-saving technologies across its 2009 portfolio. The all-new 2009 Chevy Traverse crossover, for example, enjoys best-in-class highway fuel economy (24 mpg for FWD models) of any eight-passenger SUV, thanks in part to its 3.6L direct injected V-6 engine with variable valve timing. In 2009, GM expects to sell 500,000 vehicles with gasoline direct injection.
Here are additional fuel-saving facts about GM vehicles:
Twenty models in GM’s 2009 lineup deliver EPA-rated highway fuel economy of 30 mpg or more – more than any other automaker. GM’s non-hybrid models rank first in highway fuel economy in both the midsize sedan and subcompact segments. (Chevrolet Malibu, Saturn Aura with 33 highway mpg; and Chevrolet Colbalt XFE and Pontiac G5 XFE at 37 highway mpg.)
GM’s 2009 domestic car and light truck lineups will use 700 million fewer gallons of fuel than the 2008 lineup, during the life of the vehicles, saving $1.4 to $2.1 billion in fuel costs, assuming gas prices of $2 to $3 per gallon. It’s estimated that GM’s 2010 lineup will add another 1.1 billion gallons of fuel savings and $2.2 to $3.3 billion, relative to the 2008 lineup.

GM’s advanced engine technologies are already saving fuel today in vehicles on the road or expected to be sold in 2009. They include:
More than 3.7 million vehicles with variable valve timing (VVT)
700,000 vehicles with direct injection
600,000 vehicles with Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation technology, which automatically lets the engine run on half of its cylinders when full power is not needed
200,000 vehicles with turbocharged gas engines
42,000 vehicles with both direct injection and turbocharging
More than 2 million vehicles with fuel-saving six-speed transmissions

2.4L DI details
The new 2.4L DI engine delivers an estimated 180 horsepower (134 kW) @ 6700 rpm and 172 lb.-ft. of torque (232 Nm) @4900 rpm. It uses technology based on GM’s other four-cylinder direct injection applications, but with unique features designed for its specific application. This includes an 11.4:1 compression ratio that helps build power, slightly dished pistons that increase combustion efficiency and injectors with an application-specific flow rate.

GM benchmarked the best fuel system and noise attenuation products to provide customers with quiet operation.

3.0L DI details
The new 3.0L DI engine is a variant of GM’s family of high-feature DOHC V-6 engines that also includes GM’s 3.6L DI engine in the Cadillac CTS – an engine named to Ward’s AutoWorld’s 2009 “Ten Best Engines” list for North America, for the second consecutive year.

The 3.0L is rated at an estimated 255 horsepower (187 kW) and 214 lb.-ft. of torque (290 Nm), for an impressive power-to-displacement ratio of 85 hp per liter. (Output will vary by model.) The 3.0L DI features an isolated fuel injector system that reduces the direct injection high-pressure fuel system pulses for quieter operation. Rubber isolators are used with the fuel rail to eliminate metal-to-metal contact that would otherwise transmit noise and vibration from the high-pressure fuel system.

Along with direct injection technology, both the 3.0L DI and 2.4L DI engines use variable valve timing to optimize power and fuel efficiency across the rpm band, as well as reduce emissions.

How DI works
In a conventionally port fuel injected engine, air and fuel are mixed before they enter the combustion chamber. With GM’s DI engines, fuel is sprayed directly into the cylinder where it is mixed with air. As the piston approaches top-dead center, the mixture is ignited by the spark plug; and when the fuel vaporizes in the cylinder, the air and fuel mixture is cooled. This enables the use of a higher compression ratio in the combustion chamber, which improves the engine’s power and efficiency.

On cold starts, direct injection can be controlled to create a richer air/fuel mixture around the spark plug, making it easier to ignite in a cold engine. This results in a smoother operation of the engine and lower emissions during the cold start and warm-up, when most harmful tailpipe emissions are typically created. GM’s direct injected engines reduce cold-start vehicle emissions by 25 percent.

Because the fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber, direct injection uses higher fuel pressure than conventional fuel injected engines. This is enabled by a special high pressure pump driven by one of the engine’s camshafts.

We just caught a new prototype for the 2010 Chevy Equinox, undisguised to the point that it looks darn near showroom-ready. An earlier Equinox prototype—photographed in mid-August—dropped the heavy vinyl camouflage, but still had mismatched body panels and a decent dose of graphic tape to partially muddy the waters. With the appearance of this squeaky-clean, unobscured white prototype, we're about as close as we'll get to the 100% finished product until it makes its official bow.

Although a single semi-official image has been released of the 2010 Chevy Equinox, GM test teams have continued to run heavily camouflaged prototypes on public roads and even within GM test tracks. That changed today, when a fully uncovered prototype hit one of General Motors' internal test loops—allowing us to get the first spy shots of an unclad Equinox from multiple angles.

We can now confirm the accuracy of the original low-res "release" photo, along with our first uncovered look at the crossover's rear 3/4 view. We can now get a much better feel for the interplay of the C- and D-pillars, and the pleasing chiseled nature of the rear hatch. The tail-lights have some interesting surface development, although from the the side they look a bit like the rear lamps on the Dodge Durango.

On the rear bumper, the dual exhaust tips flank what appears to be a chrome inset to match the similar bit of brightwork visible on the front air-dam of the Equinox in the leaked image.