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2008
Chevrolet Equinox

Starts at:
$23,035
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New 2008 Chevrolet Equinox
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NHTSA tested vehicle score
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • FWD 4dr LS
    Starts at
    $23,035
    17 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    2
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • FWD 4dr LT
    Starts at
    $23,905
    17 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • AWD 4dr LS
    Starts at
    $24,660
    17 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    2
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • AWD 4dr LT
    Starts at
    $25,530
    17 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • FWD 4dr LTZ
    Starts at
    $27,810
    17 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • FWD 4dr Sport
    Starts at
    $28,115
    16 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • AWD 4dr LTZ
    Starts at
    $29,435
    17 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • AWD 4dr Sport
    Starts at
    $29,740
    16 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

Photo & video gallery

2008 Chevrolet Equinox 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 2008 Chevrolet Equinox

Notable features

Performance Equinox Sport
FWD or AWD
Passenger- and cargo-area versatility
Electric power steering
Standard ABS and electronic stability system

The good & the bad

The good

Interior space and versatility
Ride comfort
Automatic-transmission response
Availability of AWD

The bad

Engine noise
Visibility
Uncertain construction quality

Expert 2008 Chevrolet Equinox review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Steven Cole Smith
Full article
our expert's take


The 2008 Chevrolet Equinox Sport is the answer to a question I thought no one was asking: “Why isn’t there a deluxe, high-performance version of the Equinox?”

Shows what I know. The Equinox, introduced as a 2005 model, has filled an important but moderately low-profile niche for General Motors: As a five-passenger “crossover,” sharing bits and pieces with the Saturn Vue, it targets consumers who don’t need the ruggedness of the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, or want a minivan like the Chevrolet Uplander. Though offered in all-wheel-drive, the Equinox is no off-roader, and most sold are front-wheel-drive. It’s an attractive, utilitarian vehicle marketed at a reasonable price, powered by a reasonably old-fashioned, Chinese-built 3.4-liter V-6 engine with 185 horsepower. Hard to get excited about that.

For 2008, that sensible-shoes Equinox remains, but it’s joined by the Equinox Sport. The Sport is more than just a bigger engine, though: Quite a bit of suspension work has been done to the SUV, the numb electric power steering was replaced by a much better hydraulic unit, handsome 18-inch tires and alloy wheels replace the 16- or 17-inchers on other Equinox models, and some modest but effective body trim identifies it as something different.

So does the sticker: Base price of our front-drive Equinox Sport is $27,380. Had we wanted the all-wheel-drive model, that would have added $1,600. The least expensive Equinox starts at $22,995, including shipping, and even at that price, the base Equinox is very well equipped. Standard on all models is air conditioning, a six-speaker AM/FM stereo with CD player, cruise control, antilock brakes, stability control, keyless entry and a five-speed automatic transmission to go with the 3.4-liter V-6. The next step up from the base LS is the LT, then the LTZ, then the Sport. Load up an all-wheel-drive Sport with most all options, including a navigation system, and you’re nudging $34,000.

The test Sport had several options, including leather upholstery, a sunroof, roof racks and side-curtain airbags, bringing the total price, with shipping, to $29,580.

Inside, the Equinox still has some interior trim that belongs on a less expensive model, but there are some very nice features: The rear seat slides forward or back about eight inches, giving you the option of lots of room for passengers or cargo. With the seat toward the rear, there’s room aplenty for five six-footers. There is no third seat, but Chevrolet could probably squeeze one in there if they tried — the Equinox is big enough.

Instruments and controls are standard GM-issue, which is fine. The front seats are supportive; rear seats are comparatively hard and upright. Even with the rear seat all the way back, there’s still lots of luggage space.

On the road, the Equinox Sport shines. The ride is firm but compliant, and handling is better than I thought I’d ever see in an Equinox. This engine, optional on the new Malibu, has plenty of punch, nicely delivered through the six-speed automatic transmission. And you don’t pay much of a price in fuel economy: The test Sport is EPA-rated at 16 mpg city, 24 highway; with the regular 185-horse engine, it’s 17 mpg city, 24 highway. Both engines run on regular gas.

The Equinox Sport, and its counterpart, the Pontiac Torrent GXP, add some genuine spark to serviceable but otherwise dull vehicles. Good for General Motors.

Sentinel Automotive Editor Steven Cole Smithcan be reached at scsmith@orlandosentinel.com.

2008 Chevrolet Equinox review: Our expert's take
By Steven Cole Smith


The 2008 Chevrolet Equinox Sport is the answer to a question I thought no one was asking: “Why isn’t there a deluxe, high-performance version of the Equinox?”

Shows what I know. The Equinox, introduced as a 2005 model, has filled an important but moderately low-profile niche for General Motors: As a five-passenger “crossover,” sharing bits and pieces with the Saturn Vue, it targets consumers who don’t need the ruggedness of the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, or want a minivan like the Chevrolet Uplander. Though offered in all-wheel-drive, the Equinox is no off-roader, and most sold are front-wheel-drive. It’s an attractive, utilitarian vehicle marketed at a reasonable price, powered by a reasonably old-fashioned, Chinese-built 3.4-liter V-6 engine with 185 horsepower. Hard to get excited about that.

For 2008, that sensible-shoes Equinox remains, but it’s joined by the Equinox Sport. The Sport is more than just a bigger engine, though: Quite a bit of suspension work has been done to the SUV, the numb electric power steering was replaced by a much better hydraulic unit, handsome 18-inch tires and alloy wheels replace the 16- or 17-inchers on other Equinox models, and some modest but effective body trim identifies it as something different.

So does the sticker: Base price of our front-drive Equinox Sport is $27,380. Had we wanted the all-wheel-drive model, that would have added $1,600. The least expensive Equinox starts at $22,995, including shipping, and even at that price, the base Equinox is very well equipped. Standard on all models is air conditioning, a six-speaker AM/FM stereo with CD player, cruise control, antilock brakes, stability control, keyless entry and a five-speed automatic transmission to go with the 3.4-liter V-6. The next step up from the base LS is the LT, then the LTZ, then the Sport. Load up an all-wheel-drive Sport with most all options, including a navigation system, and you’re nudging $34,000.

The test Sport had several options, including leather upholstery, a sunroof, roof racks and side-curtain airbags, bringing the total price, with shipping, to $29,580.

Inside, the Equinox still has some interior trim that belongs on a less expensive model, but there are some very nice features: The rear seat slides forward or back about eight inches, giving you the option of lots of room for passengers or cargo. With the seat toward the rear, there’s room aplenty for five six-footers. There is no third seat, but Chevrolet could probably squeeze one in there if they tried — the Equinox is big enough.

Instruments and controls are standard GM-issue, which is fine. The front seats are supportive; rear seats are comparatively hard and upright. Even with the rear seat all the way back, there’s still lots of luggage space.

On the road, the Equinox Sport shines. The ride is firm but compliant, and handling is better than I thought I’d ever see in an Equinox. This engine, optional on the new Malibu, has plenty of punch, nicely delivered through the six-speed automatic transmission. And you don’t pay much of a price in fuel economy: The test Sport is EPA-rated at 16 mpg city, 24 highway; with the regular 185-horse engine, it’s 17 mpg city, 24 highway. Both engines run on regular gas.

The Equinox Sport, and its counterpart, the Pontiac Torrent GXP, add some genuine spark to serviceable but otherwise dull vehicles. Good for General Motors.

Sentinel Automotive Editor Steven Cole Smithcan be reached at scsmith@orlandosentinel.com.

Available cars near you

Safety review

Based on the 2008 Chevrolet Equinox base trim
NHTSA crash test and rollover ratings, scored out of 5.
Frontal driver
5/5
Frontal passenger
5/5
Nhtsa rollover rating
4/5
Side driver
5/5
Side rear passenger
5/5

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
3 years / 36,000 miles
Corrosion
6 years / 100,000 miles
Powertrain
5 years / 100,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
5 years / 100,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
5 model years or newer / up to 75,000 miles
Basic
12 months / 12,000 miles bumper-to-bumper original warranty, then may continue to 6 years / 100,000 miles limited (depending on variables)
Dealer certification
172-point inspection

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Consumer reviews

4.0 / 5
Based on 62 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.2
Interior 3.8
Performance 4.0
Value 4.0
Exterior 4.2
Reliability 4.1

Most recent

  • Very dependable, runs like a champ at 16 yrs old

    Father in Law bought this car towards end of 2008 with 18,000 miles on it, a 'GM program car' It was his 2nd vehicle so it didn't get used a bunch, he wanted the AWD option for winter driving. Fast forward to end of 2018 and we took possession of it with 79000 miles on it after he stopped driving. We have maintained it with regular oil changes, trans fluid changes, and have had some small repairs done (wheel bearings, power window motor replacement, that kind of stuff). It now has 215000 miles and engine and transmission still going strong. It's my husband's daily driver-70 miles a day- plus taking it on trips out of town. Metallic gray paint still looks great. Averages 24mpg. We are actually looking for another one with the 3.4 v6 with 100,000 miles or less, we've been so impressed with it.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • I will never buy Chevy again either.

    I bought my 2008 brand new from a dealership. Right away the fuel pump was making up and down squeeling noise. I took it in so they put in a new fuel pump. Then they called me and said we found out that the equinox has two fuel pumps and the engineers say that this is a normal noise. So they offered to put on soundproofing underneath the car to drown out the noise. Check engine lights constantly for many many years. Seal around the back hatch had to be replaced three times after the factory installation. The tire well kept filling with water and rotting. Light bulbs burn out like crazy constantly. Nothing was wrong with my front lights until each one of them had the bulb changed and then they took on condensation. There were no cracks. Finally had to buy completely new headlight lenses. Now they're working great back lights aren't burning out quite as often as they used to. Lot of issues with the battery that was installed when it was new. Obviously bought a new one. The tires that came on it wore off very quickly. Interior pieces and parts some of them break due to being all made out of cheap plastic. Including handle on glove compartment which broke off and I still can't get into my glove compartment.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 2.0
    Value 1.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 2.0
    0 people out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Equinox the lemon that squeezes you

    Bought used from dealer after a new transmission, brakes, and turn signal control was installed. A year later dealer rebuilt that transmission twice in 4weeks. Then I had to replace power steering pump 4 times along with lines, complete gears and lines. Then rear end, bearings and entire suspension. Then had put in another transmission. Not sure if the part list will ever end because I have literally rebuilt the car under a 160,000 miles
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 2.0
    Performance 2.0
    Value 1.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 1.0
    19 people out of 19 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Worst vehicle Ever

    Put thousands of $ in Chevy, I have a Honda Accord with 170,000 miles never have a problem, only 100,000 on Chevy, junk don’t buy!! Unless you have money to just throw away!!! Will never buy GM ever again foreign from now on!!!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 1.0
    Interior 1.0
    Performance 1.0
    Value 1.0
    Exterior 1.0
    Reliability 1.0
    7 people out of 14 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • WORST car I’ve ever owned

    I’ve had this car for 8 months now, At first it was a fun roomy fast car... it won’t pass emissions, had to replace the cat converter, 02 downstream, And then everything WAS good... My car was starting to pull back while accelerating and driving, had multiple mechanics look at it saying my car was in great shape, not a few days later the entire engine blew up, timing belt broke, gaskets blew and my engine seized. My car has Maintained, always has oil in it, everything taken good care of. The car has 153000 miles on it. The engine was TOAST, i had to completely get a new motor for my car that was more than what the car is worth, Now I have a new/used engine in the car with 88,000 miles on it and now my transmission is going out !!! And my car is driving touchy and terrible. This has been nothing but a headache and a mistake and a loss of money.... This car Is a LEMON. The mechanic who replaced my engine told me this car is a lemon as well.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 2.0
    Value 2.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 1.0
    16 people out of 17 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • So far this Is one of the best vehicle I’ve owned

    So far this truck has been worked on twice. Passed inspection and rides so smooth and quiet. It takes me to work and back with no problem at all.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    9 people out of 9 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Great car!

    Great car. Nice, comfortable ride. Gets around good on snow covered roads, which is what you need in the winter time if you live in Northern Pennsylvania!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Lots of electrical problems

    The motor and trans weren't bad but I forever had lights coming on the dash for no specific reason things drawing power from the battery while the car was off leaving me to have to jump start it every time
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 2.0
    Interior 2.0
    Performance 2.0
    Value 2.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 2.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • One owner with all maintenance done on schedule

    Selling for my mother. She simply just doesn't drive much! All I can do is be honest- it has hail damage, and paint is peeling off right roof rail. Besides cosmetics, she followed all maintenance schedules. Solid ride; extremely low miles
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Great little car

    I bought this car to be used as a second car that would spend 5 months a year in the garage as I was an RVer traveling. I have since sold the RV and it is now my only car. I bought it used in 2016 with 59k miles. It now has 72k, only problem was the heater core $1300 fix, that was shocking as the last time I replaced one it cost $34 and an hour of my time, did I. Mention i am old?. Intown gas mileage is disappointing especially with the air on but out on the road it handles and rides like a big car and the gas mileage improves quite nicely. My only complaint is the turning radius, if I want to make a U turn I have to really assess the situation. Even though it is 11 years old it still looks new and the styling hasn't aged, a few times I have had people ask me if that is the new equinox, I laugh and say "no it is 11 years old" So all in all i would by this car again.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • One issue after another

    I will never buy another GM product after this car. The entire cooling system went out at 75,000 miles. The temperature gauge went out around the same time. The heater core had to be replaced at 100,000 miles. Now an airbag sensor is out. Not worth it. If I spend thousands on a car, I expect it to last longer than 100k miles.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 2.0
    Value 2.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 1.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • It’s one of worst car I have

    I really liked the car but I strate haveing problems with a s soon as I got it but all they did was put oil in it I had already done that cause it had noil in it an it smell like gas really bad they said they fix it but they didn’t it still smell like gas they said the gas tank has a hole but I have to pay to fix it well I been having all kinds of problem with even the transmission
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 1.0
    Value 1.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 1.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No

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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2008 Chevrolet Equinox?

The 2008 Chevrolet Equinox is available in 4 trim levels:

  • LS (2 styles)
  • LT (2 styles)
  • LTZ (2 styles)
  • Sport (2 styles)

What is the MPG of the 2008 Chevrolet Equinox?

The 2008 Chevrolet Equinox offers up to 17 MPG in city driving and 24 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2008 Chevrolet Equinox?

The 2008 Chevrolet Equinox compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2008 Chevrolet Equinox reliable?

The 2008 Chevrolet Equinox has an average reliability rating of 4.1 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2008 Chevrolet Equinox owners.

Is the 2008 Chevrolet Equinox a good SUV?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2008 Chevrolet Equinox. 80.6% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.0 / 5
Based on 62 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.2
  • Interior: 3.8
  • Performance: 4.0
  • Value: 4.0
  • Exterior: 4.2
  • Reliability: 4.1

Chevrolet Equinox history

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