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2008 Chevrolet Equinox Sport: Sport “ish”
Adding the appendage; “Sport” at the end of a vehicle’s model name does not always live up to expectations. Usually it denotes a higher performance version of a vehicle that would not otherwise be destined for the racetrack. Ideally, it should mean the same thing in all cases; a “Sport” version adds increased horsepower, tighter suspension, better handling and special appearance extras to the stock models. With Chevy’s Equinox Sport, three out of four isn’t bad.
 In non-sport mode, the Equinox is a solid player in the compact SUV field. Compact? Well, that’s what Chevy says, although this 189-inch long hauler seems anything but. With seating for 5, the Equinox is value priced at $23,355 (not including Chevy’s current offer of $2,000 cash back) and among its notable features includes a sliding rear 60/40 bench seat. With eight inches of movement, the seat provides occupants the choice of cavernous rear legroom or better than average cargo space. Generous head and legroom are provided for the driver and passenger, who, incidentally have more comfortable seats than those riding in the rear. Rounding out the interior, the driver’s instrument gauges are clear, the dash is clean and the center stack is user friendly, efficient and uncluttered. That said, nothing about the interior is overly stylish, striking or memorable, save the bad memories of the ill-placed window switches and low single front drink holder. On the brighter side is the standard 3.4-liter 185-horsepower V6 which provides adequate power and 3500 lbs. towing capacity and all models have available AWD.
New for 2008 are a luxury LTZ model and our test vehicle, the Equinox Sport. The Sport is the highest priced of the bunch at $28,435 but adds most of the qualities that the designation “sport” should include. For increased speed the Sport doesn’t disappoint, thanks to its 3.6-liter 264-horsepower V6. Mated to a 6-speed transmission, this engine lives up to the hype in terms of off-the-line quickness and passing power, delivering a 0-60 time of less than 7 seconds. Though quite a feat in a nicely priced compact SUV, I found the engine to be quite noisy overall.
 The premium Sport also brings with it the appropriate standard extras, which in this case are 18-inch wheels; dual trapezoidal chrome exhausts and silver plated front air inlets; leather-wrapped steering wheel; 140 mph speedometer; heated front seats and unique shifter. The otherwise- standard roof rack has been removed to provide a cleaner exterior look but it can be had as an option. And my favorite - the oh-so-useful remote starter - came in handy during this test period as each day was bitterly cold.
As expected, the sport model has a lowered suspension that is tighter and specifically performance tuned. The Equinox Sport comes up shy in the "sport" category, however, as it exhibited considerable body roll and required significant braking before taking quick turns. The suspension also produces a rough ride on moderately bumpy roads. The harsh ride would be an acceptable sacrifice if the handling was superior, but that’s not the case. Overall, driving on smooth surfaces was pleasant, just unfulfilling when it comes to road and steering feel. Will the Equinox Sport get you there in a hurry while carrying all of your stuff? Yes. Will you enjoy your time behind the wheel? Most likely, you won’t recall.
 As an everyday vehicle the Equinox is not perfect but it is practical and affordable. Positives include 5 star frontal crash ratings, good fuel economy (16 city/24 hwy on regular unleaded), great interior volume, remote starter on select models and reasonable pricing. Bumping up to the $28,435 Equinox Sport is a choice that should be weighed carefully and will ultimately come down to your expectations. The speed is there, the handling to go along with it, sadly, is not.
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