Chevy's truck-based SUV in the mid-size class comes in regular-length and stretched editions. The larger version - TrailBlazer EXT - measures 16 inches longer with extra space inside for a third tier of seats to boost the passenger capacity to seven. A standard-length TrailBlazer has seats for five. Both TrailBlazer and EXT use a 4.2-liter in-line-six as the standard powertrain, which delivers 275 hp with a Hydra-Matic four-speed automatic transmission. For more muscle, EXT also offers a new Vortec 5.3-liter V8 rated at 290 hp.

The all-aluminum plant applies innovative Displacement on Demand (DOD) technology, which automatically cuts the number of cylinders engaged in the combustion process when boosted power is not needed. The process improves fuel economy numbers by as much as eight percent. These SUVs continue with trims of LS and LT and choices for rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and four-wheel-drive (4WD) traction. With the 4WD equipment aboard, the TrailBlazer employs the smart Autotrac system with push-button selections and automatic switching from standard RWD traction to a mode that distributes engine torque equally between front and rear wheels.

The compact-class SUV extends this year strictly as a two-door model but there are three trim alternatives. Consider the base two-door Blazer a value package, although there are special versions too -- Xtreme, rigged with a low-riding sport suspension, and ZR2, with a high stance and 4WD gear for serious off-road forays. All Blazers carry a Vortec 4.3-liter V6 engine that musters 190 hp with either a standard manual five-speed transmission or optional four-speed Hydra-Matic automatic. A package of convenience features is available for all trims, adding gear like a tilting steering wheel, power controls for windows and door locks and power mirrors with internal electric heat element. Another choice is the Autotrac automatic active transfer case for AWD traction.

The latest SUV in Chevrolet's line measures larger than others in the compact class, with a broad track and the longest wheelbase. The wide and long platform sets up a passenger compartment that seems as spacious as a mid-size wagon. The plans for the five-seat cabin have a pair of comfortable bucket seats on the cockpit row separated by a flip-up or fold-down console. A bench seat on the second row slides fore and aft eight inches to vary legroom and space for the rear cargo bay. The bench's seatback, in sections split 60/40 percent, reclines to two positions and each side folds to make room for cargo.

In the back bay Equinox has a power outlet and a panel that fits in three positions for stacking cargo in tiers. The panel also serves as a tabletop for tailgate picnics. This wagon feels frisky thanks to a 3.4-liter V6 engine that produces 185 hp with an automatic five-speed transmission. Equinox offers two trims -- LS and LT -- with front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) options for each. (...BACK)

Read our Review: Chevrolet Equinox