2017 Chevy Equinox Sport: Review, Specs & More

by Alex Braham 47 views

Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2017 Chevy Equinox Sport, a crossover SUV that offers a blend of practicality and a touch of sportiness. If you're considering this vehicle, you're in the right place. We'll break down everything you need to know, from its features and performance to its overall value. Let's get started!

Overview of the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox Sport

The 2017 Chevrolet Equinox Sport is a trim level that adds a bit more flair and visual appeal to the standard Equinox. It's designed for those who want a crossover SUV with a slightly more aggressive look and a few extra features. This model year Equinox is part of the second generation, which has been around since 2010, so it's a well-established and familiar vehicle in the compact SUV market.

One of the main draws of the 2017 Equinox Sport is its enhanced appearance. It typically includes unique styling elements such as a distinctive grille, sporty wheels, and body-colored accents that differentiate it from the base models. These touches give it a more premium and athletic vibe, which can be a significant factor for buyers looking to stand out. Beyond aesthetics, the Sport trim often includes upgraded interior features and technology, making it a well-rounded package.

In terms of practicality, the Equinox offers a spacious cabin for passengers and a decent amount of cargo space, making it suitable for families and individuals alike. The rear seats can slide and recline, providing flexibility for passenger comfort and cargo management. This versatility is a key selling point, as it allows the Equinox to adapt to various needs, whether you're hauling groceries, sports equipment, or luggage for a road trip.

Under the hood, the 2017 Equinox typically offers a choice of engines, including a standard four-cylinder and an optional V6 for those seeking more power. The four-cylinder provides adequate performance for daily driving and good fuel economy, while the V6 delivers stronger acceleration and towing capability. The ride quality is generally comfortable, making it a pleasant vehicle for both city commuting and long highway journeys. Safety features are also a priority, with available options like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning to help keep you and your passengers safe.

Overall, the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox Sport is a solid choice in the compact SUV segment, offering a blend of style, comfort, and practicality. Its sporty appearance and available features make it an attractive option for those who want a vehicle that looks good and performs well. While it may not be the most cutting-edge SUV on the market, its reliability and established track record make it a dependable choice for many buyers.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's get into the nitty-gritty of what makes the 2017 Chevy Equinox Sport tick. Knowing the key features and specs will help you understand exactly what you're getting.

Engine Options

  • 2.4L Four-Cylinder Engine: This is the standard engine, producing around 182 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque. It's designed for efficiency, offering a good balance of power and fuel economy.
  • 3.6L V6 Engine: Available as an upgrade, this engine cranks out about 301 horsepower and 272 lb-ft of torque. If you're looking for more oomph and towing capability, this is the way to go.

Transmission

  • 6-Speed Automatic: Both engine options are paired with a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission. This transmission helps optimize fuel economy and provides responsive performance.

Drivetrain

  • Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): Standard on most models, FWD provides good fuel efficiency and confident handling in normal driving conditions.
  • All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Available as an option, AWD enhances traction and stability, especially in inclement weather or on slippery surfaces. If you live in an area with snow or rain, AWD is a smart choice.

Interior Features

  • Seating: The Equinox Sport typically seats five passengers comfortably. The rear seats have a sliding and reclining feature, allowing for flexible cargo and passenger arrangements.
  • Infotainment: Expect a 7-inch touchscreen display with Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment system. This system includes features like Bluetooth connectivity, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and USB ports.
  • Audio: A standard six-speaker audio system provides decent sound quality. Higher trims may offer an upgraded premium audio system.
  • Comfort: Cloth upholstery is standard, but some models may feature leather or premium cloth options. Other comfort features include air conditioning, power windows and locks, and keyless entry.

Exterior Features

  • Wheels: The Sport trim typically comes with unique alloy wheels, often 18-inch or larger, that enhance its sporty appearance.
  • Styling: Expect body-colored accents, a distinctive grille, and other sporty styling elements that set the Sport apart from other Equinox trims.
  • Lighting: Halogen headlights are standard, with available upgrades to LED headlights on higher trims.

Safety Features

  • Standard: The Equinox comes standard with features like antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a suite of airbags.
  • Available: Optional safety features may include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, forward collision alert, and a rearview camera.

Dimensions and Cargo Space

  • Cargo Space: The Equinox offers around 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to about 63.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
  • Dimensions: The overall length is approximately 183 inches, making it a manageable size for city driving and parking.

Knowing these key features and specifications will give you a solid understanding of what the 2017 Chevy Equinox Sport has to offer. Whether it's the engine options, interior comforts, or safety features, this SUV is designed to provide a well-rounded driving experience.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance and handling, the 2017 Chevy Equinox Sport offers a balanced driving experience that caters to everyday needs. Let's break down how it performs on the road.

Engine Performance

  • 2.4L Four-Cylinder: The standard 2.4L four-cylinder engine provides adequate power for most driving situations. It's responsive enough for city commuting and highway cruising, though it may feel a bit strained when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. The emphasis here is on fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for daily use.
  • 3.6L V6: If you opt for the 3.6L V6, you'll notice a significant boost in performance. With over 300 horsepower, this engine delivers brisk acceleration and strong passing power. It's particularly useful for towing or driving in hilly terrain, providing a more confident and enjoyable driving experience. The V6 transforms the Equinox from a practical commuter into a more capable and versatile vehicle.

Transmission and Drivetrain

  • 6-Speed Automatic: The 6-speed automatic transmission works well with both engine options, offering smooth and timely shifts. It helps optimize fuel economy while providing responsive performance when you need it. The transmission is well-tuned to match the engines' characteristics, ensuring a comfortable and efficient driving experience.
  • Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): Standard FWD provides good traction in normal driving conditions. It's efficient and suitable for everyday use. However, it may struggle in slippery conditions like snow or ice.
  • All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Available AWD enhances traction and stability, making it a valuable addition if you live in an area with challenging weather conditions. AWD provides added confidence and control, especially on wet or snowy roads.

Ride and Handling

  • Ride Quality: The 2017 Equinox offers a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and road imperfections effectively. It's well-suited for long highway journeys and daily commutes, providing a smooth and pleasant driving experience.
  • Handling: The handling is decent, with responsive steering and predictable body control. It's not the sportiest SUV on the market, but it's competent and easy to drive. The Equinox feels stable and planted, inspiring confidence behind the wheel.

Fuel Economy

  • 2.4L Four-Cylinder: Expect fuel economy in the range of 22 mpg city and 32 mpg highway with FWD. AWD models may see slightly lower numbers.
  • 3.6L V6: The V6 offers lower fuel economy, typically around 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. The trade-off for the extra power is a noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency.

Overall Driving Experience

The 2017 Chevy Equinox Sport provides a balanced and practical driving experience. The four-cylinder engine is suitable for those prioritizing fuel efficiency, while the V6 offers more power and capability. The ride quality is comfortable, and the handling is competent, making it a well-rounded choice for everyday driving. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or embarking on a road trip, the Equinox delivers a pleasant and reliable driving experience.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Let's step inside the 2017 Chevy Equinox Sport and explore its interior comfort and technology features. These elements play a crucial role in the overall driving experience, so it's important to know what to expect.

Seating and Upholstery

  • Seating: The Equinox Sport typically seats five passengers. The front seats are generally comfortable and supportive, suitable for long drives. The rear seats offer decent legroom and headroom, making them comfortable for adults as well.
  • Upholstery: Cloth upholstery is standard, providing a comfortable and durable seating surface. Some models may feature leather or premium cloth options, adding a touch of luxury and refinement.

Interior Design and Materials

  • Design: The interior design is functional and straightforward, with a focus on practicality and ease of use. The layout is intuitive, with controls that are easy to reach and operate.
  • Materials: The quality of materials is decent, though some hard plastics are present. Higher trims may feature soft-touch surfaces and upgraded trim materials, enhancing the overall feel of the cabin.

Infotainment System

  • Touchscreen Display: A 7-inch touchscreen display is standard, running Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment system. The touchscreen is responsive and easy to navigate, providing access to various features and functions.
  • Smartphone Integration: The MyLink system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone for navigation, music, and communication.
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth connectivity is standard, enabling hands-free calling and audio streaming. USB ports are also available for charging and connecting devices.

Audio System

  • Standard Audio: A six-speaker audio system is standard, providing decent sound quality for everyday listening. It's adequate for most users, but audiophiles may want to consider upgrading to a premium audio system.
  • Available Upgrades: Higher trims may offer an upgraded premium audio system with enhanced sound quality and additional features, such as a subwoofer and amplifier.

Comfort and Convenience Features

  • Air Conditioning: Air conditioning is standard, keeping the cabin comfortable in warm weather.
  • Power Windows and Locks: Power windows and locks are standard, providing convenient control over the vehicle's windows and doors.
  • Keyless Entry: Keyless entry is standard, allowing you to unlock and lock the doors with the touch of a button.
  • Other Features: Other available features may include a sunroof, automatic climate control, and heated seats, depending on the trim level and options package.

Overall Interior Experience

The 2017 Chevy Equinox Sport offers a comfortable and functional interior with a range of technology features. The seating is comfortable, the infotainment system is user-friendly, and the available comfort and convenience features enhance the overall driving experience. While the interior design may not be the most luxurious, it's practical and well-suited for everyday use.

Potential Issues and Reliability

No car is perfect, so let's talk about some potential issues and reliability concerns with the 2017 Chevy Equinox Sport. Knowing these can help you make a more informed decision.

Common Problems

  • Excessive Oil Consumption: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, particularly with the 2.4L four-cylinder engine. This can lead to engine damage if not monitored and addressed properly. Regular oil checks and timely maintenance are crucial.
  • Timing Chain Issues: The 2.4L engine has also been known to have timing chain issues, which can cause significant engine damage if the chain breaks. Symptoms include unusual engine noise and poor performance. Addressing this issue promptly can prevent costly repairs.
  • Air Conditioning Problems: Some owners have experienced issues with the air conditioning system, such as weak airflow or failure to cool properly. This can be caused by refrigerant leaks, compressor issues, or other component failures.
  • Electrical Issues: Electrical problems, such as malfunctioning sensors, faulty wiring, and issues with the infotainment system, have been reported by some owners. These issues can be intermittent and difficult to diagnose.

Reliability Ratings

  • J.D. Power: J.D. Power gives the 2017 Equinox a reliability rating that is about average for its class. While it's not the most reliable SUV on the market, it's generally dependable.
  • Consumer Reports: Consumer Reports rates the Equinox with mixed reviews, noting some potential trouble spots but also highlighting its strengths. Overall, it's considered a reasonably reliable vehicle.

Maintenance Tips

  • Regular Oil Changes: Follow the recommended oil change intervals to prevent excessive oil consumption and timing chain issues. Use the correct type of oil and filter.
  • Check Fluid Levels: Regularly check and maintain all fluid levels, including coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. This helps ensure proper operation and prevents potential problems.
  • Inspect Belts and Hoses: Inspect belts and hoses for cracks, wear, and leaks. Replace them as needed to prevent breakdowns.
  • Monitor Tire Pressure: Maintain proper tire pressure to ensure even wear and optimal handling. Rotate tires regularly to extend their lifespan.
  • Address Issues Promptly: If you notice any unusual symptoms, such as strange noises, warning lights, or performance issues, address them promptly to prevent more significant damage.

Overall Reliability

While the 2017 Chevy Equinox Sport has some potential issues to be aware of, it's generally a reliable vehicle when properly maintained. Addressing common problems promptly and following a regular maintenance schedule can help ensure long-term dependability. Be sure to research and consider these factors when making your purchase decision.

Is the 2017 Chevy Equinox Sport Right for You?

So, is the 2017 Chevy Equinox Sport the right choice for you? Let's weigh the pros and cons to help you decide.

Pros

  • Sporty Appearance: The Sport trim adds a stylish and distinctive look to the Equinox, making it stand out from other models.
  • Available V6 Engine: The optional 3.6L V6 engine provides strong performance and towing capability, making it a versatile choice.
  • Comfortable Ride: The Equinox offers a comfortable ride quality, making it suitable for long drives and daily commutes.
  • Spacious Interior: The interior is spacious and practical, with decent legroom and cargo space.
  • User-Friendly Technology: The MyLink infotainment system is easy to use and offers smartphone integration features.

Cons

  • Potential Reliability Issues: The 2.4L engine has been known to have excessive oil consumption and timing chain problems.
  • Interior Material Quality: Some hard plastics are present in the interior, which may detract from the overall feel.
  • Fuel Economy: The V6 engine offers lower fuel economy compared to the four-cylinder.
  • Not the Most Cutting-Edge: The 2017 Equinox is not the most technologically advanced or stylish SUV on the market.

Who Should Buy This Car?

The 2017 Chevy Equinox Sport is a good choice for:

  • Small Families: It offers enough space and safety features for small families.
  • Commuters: The comfortable ride and available fuel-efficient engine make it suitable for daily commuting.
  • Those Who Want a Sporty Look: The Sport trim adds a stylish touch to the Equinox.
  • Buyers on a Budget: It's a reasonably priced SUV with a lot to offer.

Who Should Look Elsewhere?

The 2017 Chevy Equinox Sport might not be the best choice for:

  • Those Prioritizing Reliability: If reliability is your top priority, you may want to consider other SUVs with better track records.
  • Those Seeking the Latest Technology: If you want the most advanced technology features, you may want to look at newer models.
  • Those Needing a Lot of Cargo Space: While the Equinox offers decent cargo space, there are other SUVs with more room.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to buy the 2017 Chevy Equinox Sport depends on your individual needs and priorities. Weigh the pros and cons carefully and consider your budget, lifestyle, and driving habits. If it fits your criteria, it could be a great choice. Happy car hunting!