The 2017 Chevy Equinox V6 represents a significant step in the compact crossover’s evolution, marking the first full year the available 3.6-liter V6 engine was paired with the standard nine-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain combination was introduced to meet growing consumer demand for smoother power delivery and better highway merging performance without sacrificing the practical benefits of the Equinox’s renowned cargo space and comfortable cabin. For buyers seeking a balance between efficiency and capability, this specific model year offered a compelling blend of technology, comfort, and the reassurance that comes with a robust V6.
2017 Chevy Equinox V6 Powertrain and Performance
Under the hood, the 2017 Equinox V6 is centered on the reliable 3.6-liter direct-injected V6 engine, producing 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. This unit was mated exclusively to the GM 6T70 nine-speed automatic transmission, a sophisticated unit designed to optimize gear ratios for both fuel efficiency and responsive acceleration. The engineering focus here was on eliminating the torque converter “slush” associated with older automatic transmissions, resulting in a more linear and engaging driving experience. The power delivery felt confident and assured, particularly when merging onto highways or passing on two-lane roads, where the V6’s extra displacement truly shone compared to the base four-cylinder variants.
Handling and Driving Dynamics
While the V6 model added substantial weight, the 2017 Equinox maintained its class-leading handling composure. The standard front-wheel-drive layout, combined with a refined suspension setup featuring a hydraulic body lift and electronically controlled power steering, ensured the vehicle felt planted and stable at speed. The nine-speed transmission played a crucial role, often downshifting swiftly to capitalize on the V6’s robust torque curve during spirited driving. Drivers would notice a marked improvement in overtaking confidence and overall refinement, making the V6 variant feel more premium and dynamic than its four-cylinder counterparts, especially on long road trips.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the 2017 Equinox V6 continued the trend of elevating the cabin experience across the trim spectrum. Available on the higher trims like the LT and Premier, the V6 package often included premium features such as leather-trimmed seating surfaces, heated front and rear seats, and a power liftgate. The cabin was redesigned for the 2017 model year, featuring a more modern dashboard layout with larger air vents and higher-quality soft-touch materials. A significant upgrade was the introduction of the new Infotainment 3 system with an available 8-inch-diagonal color touch screen, which offered faster processing and a more intuitive user interface than the outgoing system.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety remained a cornerstone of the 2017 Equinox, with the V6 models typically bundling the available Chevrolet Safety Assist package. This suite included advanced features like Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and Following Distance Indicator. The available rearview camera with dynamic guidelines provided excellent visibility, a critical asset for a vehicle of its size. These technologies worked in concert to deliver a driving experience that was not only powerful and comfortable but also reassuringly safe for families navigating daily commutes or weekend adventures.
Fuel Economy and Practicality
One might assume that opting for the V6 would drastically reduce fuel efficiency, but the 2017 Equinox managed to keep its practicality intact. EPA-estimated ratings for the V6-equipped models were respectable, typically around 17 city / 25 highway MPG. This was achieved through a combination of the efficient nine-speed transmission, direct injection technology, and available Active Fuel Management that deactivates cylinders during light-load conditions. The real-world advantage was evident in the Equinox’s versatile five-passenger seating and generous cargo area, which remained unfettered by the presence of the V6, offering up to 73.3 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats when folded.
