Last year was a big one for the Chevrolet Equinox compact crossover, which gained a new look, turbocharged engines and a lighter structure conceived to help make this utility more fuel efficient.
But evidently, Chevy has had some customer feedback on how the Equinox's standard and optional features were configured, because this year brings a pile of running changes to those lists.
Before we get into those, however, let's start with the basics.
The Equinox's all-four-cylinder, all-turbo engine lineup includes a 1.5L that makes 170 hp and 203 lb-ft of torque, and the upgrade is a 2.0L good for 252 hp and 260 lb-ft. There's also a 1.6L diesel that makes just 136 hp but cranks out 236 lb-ft.
A six-speed automatic transmission comes with the 1.5- and 1.6L engines, while the 2.0L gets a nine-speed auto. Front- and all-wheel drive are available.
And now, take a deep breath for a dive into what's new for 2019.
A new "lights and bright" package is available on 1LT trims and adds 19-inch wheels with silver painted pockets, chrome grille surround and LED headlights and tail lights.
Chevrolet has upgraded the Equinox's exterior cameras for better image quality; this applies to the basic backup camera and the optional surround-view system.
Inside, there are four standard USB ports -- two in front that work as audio inputs and two charging-only ports in the rear seat -- replacing the single front USB input that were included across the line last year.
Elsewhere on the tech front, the Equinox gains adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go and front pedestrian detection and braking, but only as part of a driver confidence II package that's optional in the top-end Premier trim.
Front-drive LT models lose their leather-trimmed shift lever, which becomes part of an optional package.
Standard features in LS trim include 17-inch wheels, body colour door handles, automatic halogen headlights, heated side mirrors, 12-volt power outlets in the front console and cargo area, six-speaker stereo, heated front seats with manual adjustments, Bluetooth, 7.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, cruise control, passive keyless entry, remote engine start, manual air conditioning and tire pressure monitoring.
LT trim adds body-colour mirror caps and bright lower window trim, tinted rear glass, HID headlights, eight-way power driver's seat and satellite radio.
Finally, Premier models gain rear park assist, rear cross-traffic alert and blind spot alert, 18-inch wheels, chrome door handles and mirror caps, auto-dimming rearview and side mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather trimmed steering wheel, hands-free power tailgate, garage door remote control, LED headlights and tail lights, 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, colour driver information display and wireless smartphone charging.
Fuel consumption estimates are 8.5/6.0 L/100 km (city/highway) with the diesel engine. With the 1.5L gas engine, ratings are 9.2/7.3 with FWD and 9.8/7.9 for AWD models. The 2.0L comes only with AWD and estimates of 10.9/8.3 L/100 km.
