The 2017 Chevrolet Equinox LT AWD represents a significant evolution in the compact crossover segment, blending practical capability with refined comfort. This specific model year marked a period of refinement for the Equinox, focusing on enhanced safety features, improved fuel efficiency, and a more premium interior experience. The integration of all-wheel drive (AWD) transformed the LT trim from a basic commuter into a versatile all-weather companion, capable of handling diverse road conditions with confidence. For buyers seeking a balance of efficiency, space, and capability, this trim level presented a compelling proposition in a crowded market.
Design and Exterior Refinements
Visually, the 2017 Equinox LT AWD distinguished itself with a more assertive front fascia compared to its predecessors. The introduction of LED daytime running lights and a redesigned lower grille gave the vehicle a sharper, more modern appearance that aligned with Chevrolet's design language of the era. The AWD badging on the rear tailgate signaled the capability beneath, while 18-inch alloy wheels provided a sturdy and attractive footprint. These aesthetic updates were not merely cosmetic; they contributed to a more cohesive and upscale visual identity that set the LT apart from the base models.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the 2017 Equinox LT AWD offered a cabin that prioritized both comfort and connectivity. The adoption of higher-quality materials, including soft-touch plastics and available premium leather seating surfaces, elevated the cabin's ambiance away from its more basic counterparts. The LT trim typically featured upgraded cloth seating with enhanced bolstering for better support during longer drives. A significant upgrade was the inclusion of Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment system, featuring an available 7-inch diagonal color touch-screen, which provided intuitive access to navigation, audio, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Performance and AWD Capability
Powering the 2017 Equinox LT AWD was a choice between two efficient engines, both mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The standard 2.4-liter direct-injection four-cylinder engine delivered adequate power for daily driving and highway merging, while the available 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder offered a noticeable boost in responsiveness and passing power. The AWD system, utilizing a full-time electronic transfer case, seamlessly distributed torque between the front and rear wheels. This system was engineered to enhance traction on wet pavement, light snow, and uneven road surfaces, significantly improving the vehicle's stability and confidence-inspiring nature in adverse weather conditions.
Fuel Efficiency and Practicality
One of the key strengths of the 2017 Equinox LT AWD was its commendable balance of capability and efficiency. The AWD system was designed with fuel economy in mind, often decoupling the rear wheels when full-time power was not necessary to conserve energy. This resulted in competitive fuel economy figures for a compact crossover with all-weather capability. The five-passenger seating configuration provided a practical and versatile interior space, with a rear seat that offered ample room for adults on road trips. The trunk area, while not class-leading, offered sufficient depth for groceries, luggage, or everyday errands, making it a genuinely usable family vehicle.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
The 2017 model year was a landmark for safety in the Equinox lineup, as it became one of the first vehicles in its segment to offer a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies as standard on the LT trim. This included Chevrolet’s Teen Driver system, which allowed parents to monitor and encourage safe driving habits. Furthermore, the available Safety Confidence Package introduced forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and front pedestrian braking. These features worked in concert to provide a proactive layer of protection, representing excellent value and peace of mind for buyers investing in an AWD model.
