Chevy Reveals the 2016 Equinox

2016 Chevrolet Equinox LTZ (Credit: © GM)

Earlier I brought you the first teaser images of the refreshed 2016 Chevrolet Equinox, and now – only hours before the Chicago Auto Show opens – Chevy has revealed all of the information on the updated SUV. Looking at the images, I can see that the changes, while comprehensive, aren’t nearly as major as they looked in the teaser image.

Overall, the Equinox remains very recognizable, but it does feature the updated headlights with new daytime running light signatures on the LT and LTZ trims, revised bumper, and new fog lights seen in the teaser images. Also slightly updated is the grille, which is now a bit larger and features special chrome trimming with the LT and LTZ trims.

2016 Chevrolet Equinox LTZ (Credit: © GM)

Around back, Chevy went to work installing a revised set of dual-element taillights, an updated license plate applique, and a new lower bumper insert. On the LTZ trim, the new bumper insert also features a chrome strip, and V-6 models get new exhaust outlets peeking from the insert.

Chevy did some work on the rolling stock too, as the LT and LTZ models feature updated 17-inch wheels. The LS model also gets 17-inch wheels, but they are only available as an at-cost option.

There are also some changes of note on the inside, as Chevy added in a standard seven-inch Color Touch radio that also includes a rearview camera on L and LS models. According to Chevy, the center stack is also slightly updated, but I am having a tough time finding exactly what has changed from the images the automaker provided. The final updates inside the cabin include available universal tablet holders, a chrome-trimmed gear shifter with the Electronic Range Selector buttons moved to the top of the shifter, upgraded fabrics on the L and LS, and a new Saddle Up interior color.

2016 Chevrolet Equinox LTZ (Credit: © GM)

Chevy also upped the optional safety features on the 2016 Equinox by adding in available side blind zone alert and cross-traffic alert.

These changes aside, all else remains the same for the Equinox, including its standard 2.4-liter engine and optional 3.6-liter V-6, which produce 182 and 301 horsepower, respectively.

It’s hard to say whether these changes will help or hinder the Equinox moving forward, but I have a feeling buyers will prefer this new look over the outgoing model. The 2016 Equinox will roll into dealers in the fall of 2015, but pricing is not yet available.