2012 Chevrolet Equinox LS

The Equinox is Chevrolet's compact SUV, the one that splits the difference between the Traverse and the smaller Captiva Sport. It's a comfortable cruiser rather than a sporty one, with a ride that soaks up bumps well and steering that's light and easy. The cabin is roomy for four adults, and the rear seat slides fore and aft to trade legroom for cargo space. Some owners mention the engine can stall when starting from a stop on a hill, so give it a beat before pulling away. The LS is the base trim, so you skip the LT's upgraded audio and power-adjustable driver seat, but you still get the same 2.4L I4 and all-wheel drive for less money. The 2.4L I4 makes 182 horsepower and pairs with a six-speed automatic, which is enough for daily driving, and the all-wheel drive helps in snow or rain. The LS rides on 16-inch steel wheels instead of alloys, and the cabin gets manual windows and locks, so expect a more utilitarian feel.