RPO Central: 2012 Chevrolet Equinox With Desirable Changes
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For the 2012 model year, the Chevy Equinox will lose two colors (Cyber Gray Metallic and Cardinal Red Metallic), get a new set of optional 18″ chrome-clad wheels, and add the Chevy MyLink infotainment system. More importantly, the Equinox will make certain previously-optional features standard, such as Bluetooth phone connectivity (standard on all trim levels, even 1LS) and the rear vision camera (standard on 1LT). Also of importance is the addition of the forward collision alert and lane departure warning systems.
But not all changes are for the better in the ever-popular Equinox. For instance, the trailering package will no longer be offered — and neither will the rear infotainment package (which seems to have disappeared in favor of the new MyLink infotainment system). Unfortunately, a rear screen for the back-seat passengers isn’t yet part of the MyLink package.
And speaking of unfortunate events — the 2012 Equinox doesn’t get any upgrades in the powertrain department… which is a shame, given that the 2012 Ford Edge will offer a 2.0 liter turbo-charged (EcoBoost) engine that will make more torque and almost as much horsepower as the optional 3.0 liter LF1 V6 in the Equinox (and GMC Terrain) while delivering the same (impressive) 30 MPG on the highway. At the very least, let’s just hope GM can keep up with demand for the Theta-based compact/midsize CUV — given that demand stays at the same insanely-high level as during 2010 and 2011.
Here are the official RPO changes:
Deletions
- (GBV) Cyber Gray Metallic
- (GIS) Cardinal Red Metallic
- (PCN) Audio system with Rear Entertainment
- (PCJ) Audio system with Navigation/Infotainment
- (PDB) Audio system with Navigation/Infotainment and Rear Entertainment
- (PFF) Wheels, 17″ (43.2 cm) aluminum
- (Q6D) Wheels, 18″ (45.7 cm) machined aluminum
- (R3P) Wheels, 19″ (48.3 cm) chrome-clad aluminum
- (V92) Trailering equipment, includes Class II 1 – 1/4″ receiver hitch and 4-wire connection
New Features
- (LEA) 2.4L DOHC 4-cylinder SIDI (Spark Ignition Direct Injection) with VVT (Variable Valve Timing) E85 capable when ordered with (FE9) Federal emissions (182 hp [135.7 kW @ 6700 rpm, 172 lb-ft [232.2 N-m] @ 4900 rpm)
- (RSB) Wheels, 17″ (43.2 cm) aluminum (New RPO only was PFF)
- (RSX) Wheels, 18″ (45.7 cm) chrome-clad aluminum
- (RT6) Wheels, 19″ (48.3 cm) chrome aluminum (New RPO only was R3P)
- (UFU) Audio system, AM/FM/XM stereo with CD player and MP3 playback capability, 7″ color touch-screen display, Radio Data System (RDS), speed-compensated volume, auxiliary input jack and outside temperature display
- (UEW) Audio system with navigation, AM/FM/XM stereo, CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability, 7″ color touch-screen display and GPS navigation system with SD card memory
- (UEU) Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning
Changes
- (PDM) Cargo Management Package no longer available on 1LT/2LT (content available through GM Accessories)
- (PCP) Bluetooth Package is no longer available on 1LS (content excluding leather-wrapped steering wheel is now standard on 1LS)
- (R13) Chrome Appearance Package no longer available on 2LT
- (DD8) Self-dimming inside rearview mirror or (UVC) Rear Vision Camera no longer part of the available (PDD) Driver Convenience Package on 1LT
- (UVC) Rear Vision Camera standard on 1LT
- (AKO) Glass, deep-tinted (all windows, except light-tinted glass on windshield and driver- and front passenger-side glass) replaces (AJ1) Glass, Solar-Ray deep-tinted (all windows, except light-tinted glass on windshield and driver- and front passenger-side glass)
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Since buying mine and using it for a while, I still have to say that the #1 thing that needs improving in the nox is rear visibility, no other SUV has such diminished vision out of the side back windows with those W-I-D-E pillars, all that’s left is a tiny triangle of a window. Have to rely on side mirrors and rear backup cam which is great in 2012. Kind of jealous of the other SUV’s that don’t have that pillar issue.
Following up colors: the Crystal Red Metallic on Traverses will replace Cardinal Red that comes straight from one of the Equinox heads at GM. That color will be available in April as they want to get it out before spring and warm weather car shopping.
Alex, you have a great forum going. Hope GM hears the comments from everyone…
Thanks for the complements, Lee — we try!
Re rearward visibility — I guess that’s the price you pay for a cool design. But I agree that it should be better.
Crystal Red sounds nice! I hope that more colors are added/shared with the Cruze line as well as time goes on.
I have test drove a Terrain before and i just feel like it handles well and has a big roomy seats BUT the vents!! I mean if it’s blown from the front its okay even though eventually drivers will get cold somehow but I have told the GM guys before(which I think they just ignored it)
Hello, Will the 2012 Equinox still have a 2LT trim level? It appears some web sites are saying that 2012 will feature only three trim levels: LS, LT and LTZ. Others say there are still four trims, with 2LT included.
Yupp, it will. The way it works is LS, 1LT, 2LT, and LTZ. Some, rather obscurely, refer to 1LT and 2LT collectively as LT.
I bought a 2011, Cardinal Red, 4 cyl, FWD, LTZ, with jet black leather, sunroof, and the Audio system with Navigation/Infotainment and Rear Entertainment. I had the factory, 17″ wheels chromed, and they look great. I love it!
It’s a nice change from my 2008 Vette, and my 2007 Silverado Ext Cab. The Equinox is easy on fuel, to park, to get in and out of, it’s really comfortable, quiet, fun to drive, and it looks great. Oh yeah, the nav works great, and the sound system kicks (_!_).
If you’re thinking about getting a Equinox, do it! This car is so nice, I’d buy it twice.
I understand that Cardinal Red and Cyber Grey Metallic were discontinued due to damage at the factory in Japan that makes the paint.
My daughter is in the process of buying a 2012 LT2,. AWD, 4 cyl. with back up camera but not navigation as Garmin is a lot better option for her money which is not unlimited. I am concerned as to possible problems with other parts from Japan, contamination for one thing and availability of replacement parts for another.
Do you have any similar concerns?
Do you think the configuration of AWD with 4 cyl. is adequate. Should she get navigation with the Equinox?
And finally, sticker says 70% US but says nothing of other 30% Do you know what makes up the other 30%. Thanks.
Hey Len,
You’re right, certain metallic colors were temporarily discontinued due to the Japan natural disasters. However, I haven’t thought of the contamination issue as it relates to parts and components — that’s an interesting question. I don’t think GM (or any other responsible automaker) would continue to source parts that are in some way dangerous to the well-being of humans/drivers/passengers of its vehicles. Either way, that’s an interesting question.
The AWD and the 4-cyl are fine, but don’t expect the Equinox to be fast in any way with that powertrain. The V6 is definitely better in terms of acceleration, but not as good on fuel economy. So I’d recommend that if speed and acceleration isn’t a primary goal, stick with the 4 cylinder.
As far as the navigation system, I say don’t get anything and use the built-in and standard OnStar Directions package instead. I’ve owned GM and non-GM vehicles before with and without navigation, and can honestly say that my 2011 Cruze without navi is the best when it comes to navigation systems thanks to OnStar.
Just hit the blue OnStar button, tell the representative the address/destination, and have them send it down to your vehicle — which then routes you using voice as well as the Driver Information Center (in the display between the speedometer and the tach) and/or the center stack display (the monochrome one). Best of all is that you don’t need to stop and input an address or play around with the nav system at all by using OnStar, since it’s hands free.
And in the case that you don’t want to talk to an OnStar representative, you also have the ability to send the address to your vehicle using the OnStar Virtual Advisor from Google Maps or MapQuest. Best part? It’s not an either/or solution — whether you choose to get the color screen nav or not, you still get OnStar free for the first 6 months and then a small fee after that.
PS: the Equinox is built in Canada, so I’d expect that the other 30% of the parts is sources from there.
Cheers and let us know how it goes!
Alex
Founder, GM Authority
The optional navigation system works in combonation with onstar, and is much more detailed than just the turn by turn in the dash.
This is true. We’re just trying to figure out why some 2012s seemingly do not have MyLink…
Have been having trouble with the bluetooth “call” feature on the 2012 Chevy Equinox. Trying to figure out if it is the phone or the system. Also, went to http://www.gm.com/bluetooth and the site isn’t updated with 2012 models. Any help would be appreciated as I am the delivery coordinator and deliver all new vehicle to the customer, going over all features in detail.
Hey Terri. What trouble are you experiencing? Is it with pairing or making calls?
Alex
I actually find it a little silly that I can’t built the 2012 Equinox or the Terrain with the Blind spot system and the Lane departure warning because I don’t see it as an option on the build your own section. For the Terrain I can’t even build one with the Navigation on the SLT2 since it doesn’t have it on the Build your own section as well. Right now I’m convincing my mother to get the Terrain with all the goodies since she says that her Cadillac kinda sucks no because when changing a light bulb on her SRX she has to take the whole bumper off along with lots of screws and it already cost her $35 dollars for dealer to replace it along with tires that are hard to find.
It is nice tom hear that they are replacing the red with another red colour. I will in the market after April 2012 for another vehicle and when I read that the red was being dropped I changed my mind and was deciding on another make of vehicle. Now, that the red is being replaced with another red I will have to reconsider. I like the look of the EQ in that colour. Can’t wait to see one now.
I am also having problems with using the bluetooth option on my 2012 Equinox LT1. The paring seems to work well but the system can’t seem to call out. It could be my phone. I also froze the radio when I last tried to pare. The on off button will not work along with the touch screen. The service person at the dealership removed the fuse but didn’t cure the problem.
Damon — can you receive calls via Bluetooth? What device/phone are you using?
I just bought a 2012 Chevy Equinox not more than a week ago and am already having problems with it. My battery ran down so after being jump started I drove it to the dealership where they told me that one of the computers on the vehicle didn’t shut down and therefore ran down my battery. They updated it and told me that it shouldn’t happen again. Drove my car home (about 25 miles away) and the next morning it was dead again. What’s going on? The dealership told me that it’s been happening on the newer model Equinoxes. Any info? Needless to say I’m headed right back over to the dealership Monday morning!! This is ridiculous to be happening on a BRAND NEW CAR!
Hannah — you should demand that your dealer look into this more closely. This should not be happening on a brand new car. Ask them why, exactly, that computer didn’t turn off. Tell them to give you a loaner if they have to keep your ‘Nox for a few days. Let us know how it goes!
Alex
Founder, GM Authority
Is the 2012 Equinox no longer available with a DVD player?
I believe it is no longer available… take a look at the “deletions” section above:
“(PCN) Audio system with Rear Entertainment”
I have a feeling it will make a comeback soon, but don’t know when, exactly.
does it also have power outlets also Alex?
Not that I know of. Although it should!
I hope so ha
Let me see if i have this straight, My link will have an app to download an Navigation system.Any idea of the cost, or maybe I could have a separate Nav system installed below the controls, they do have a bracket for that.Any help would be appreciated.
Not at all, David. MyLink will be available without the nav (standard) or with the nav built-in (optional).
The smartphone app from OnStar, which is what I think you may be thinking of, was called MyLink as well, but was recently renamed to RemoteLink.
Does that help?
Alex
Alex, the stereo place can install a Nav system below the control in that cubby hole forward of the shifter.Of course the system would not in any way interfere with the Mylink Touchscreen, because I would insist that it didn’t. I am giving it serious consideration, because I want a built in system.
I have a portable Garmin, it interferes with Bluetooth even though I am connected to Bluetooth through Mylink.I had to unplug the Garmin to get Bluetooth to work
It’s surely possible, it just seems a bit of a clunky setup for a new vehicle.
Have you used the OnStar navigation that comes with every GM product? I’d highly recommend trying that before installing the aftermarket stuff.
But then the Onstar nav they give wrong directions too
Not any more than a built-in or aftermarket system. In fact, I’d wager OnStar to be more accurate since it’s a constantly-updating location directory managed by professionals. Can one say the same about a disc/SD-based system?
Because my parents used it when they were at California to go to LAX and they gave us direction going towards San Diego.
Like Alex said — all GPS systems make errors at some point or another. But OnStar has the least amount. Your example just underlines my first sentence.
That I know it does have it’s own gliche, and I can understand if it’s old gen. but if Onstar updates it then it should take people to get to right direction. Don’t get me wrong most of the time it does take me to the right area. One time I try to go to a dealer that’s 40 min from where I live and I used Onstar and I kinda had an idea of where it is but they took right pass through where the dealer is located.
Errors happen sometimes — nothing is 100% perfect 100% of the time. But OnStar is more up-to-date and more accurate than most.
Put it up against a 3rd party unit and the error rate with OnStar will be significantly lower.
My last email related to my pending delivery of the 2012 Nox LTZ. 2000 miles later; some things I love and a few disappointments.
The items I do like … All the additional electronic cool items, ride quality, driveability, drivers position, visibility and sound system all very positive.
Dislikes: big one here … No power assist pass seat … Under estimates fuel mileage, nothing close to the 24MPG claimed … I drive at 1800-2000 RPM on the open road=75-78 MPH. I drove from MPLS to MEM in one shot and 22.6 MPG was my best with resetting after each fill-up. Another big disappointment the tranny, it’s sluggish, mushy. I have a 2010 CTS 3.6 with the more uncivilized and very positive shifting 6 speed. I have not noticed the visibility concerns I’ve previously read, maybe a resolve the new multi-view mirrors added.
Even with the dislikes … This a great deal … The Nox is for my wife, she loves it. We are both happy with the LTZ package …
Have a great day …
ND
Thanks for sharing, Nick.
If you want to get the best fuel eco, you’ll need to slow it down to 65 MPH — I found that to be the optimal speed to optimize fuel economy.
I hear you loud and clear about that tranny. It is sluggish and weak. I hope to see all-new powertrains in this thing in the next 2 years — especially the 3.6 LFX that replaced the 3.6 in many of GM’s vehicles, including your CTS for the 2012 model years.
I know that doesn’t help you, though.
Cheers!
Alex
Definitely does not have good acceleration, my daughters Jeep Patriot 2.4 litre me thinks, has great acceleration(Not sure ..Anyway satisfied with the 1LT with the screen, backup camera etc.Still thinking of the aftermarket NAV system though, just a basic built in one.if affordable for what I would get..
A big problem is that I bought a on top dash Garmin, and it interferes with my built in Bluetooth.Anyone else have that problem.How much would it cost for a factory installed Nav system, I mean like having the dealer put one in.
The ride is quiet, the feel is different from my CRV, the turning radius id not as good as the CRV, and not so sure of the gas mileage, however it is not broken in yet.Poor rear view vision but have my mirrors correctly inline.
If anyone is interested there is only one way to inline your side mirrors and I know the way.Bragging of course.LOL
David — you simply gotta try the OnStar nav that’s built in to every GM product — including the Equinox. Have you already tried it?
Don’t get an aftermarket system until you do!
I’ll second that.
The OnStar nav does all you need and is more convenient — since you don’t need to stop and plug in your destination. You simply call up a live person and they send the directions down to you — without you ever having to stop.
Do the directionns go directly to your screen
They sure do. Here’s the way it works:
1. You press the blue OnStar button and tell the live operator where you want to go. They then send the directions down to your vehicle. The entire process takes a minute, if that — which is much faster than sitting in your driveway inputting the destination using a silly little keyboard.
2. The directions appear in 2 places in your vehicle:
– In the driver information center (between the speedo and tach), and/or
– In the center console monitor
The choice is yours here.
3. You also get audible (voice-based) directions to complement the displays.
The directions are capable of being automatically updated in case you leave the planned route.
Oh, and the best part of OnStar, in my opinion, is the Virtual Advisor. It’s an automated system that you can send directions to from your computer.
So let’s say you’re on Google Maps looking at a route/address. You can simply send an address (directly from Google Maps) to the OnStar Virtual Advisor. Then, when you’re in the car, you press the “push to talk button” and say “Virtual Advisor” after the beep. It then asks you what you want to do — and you say “eNav Destination”. Then you can select from the routes that you sent in and get directions that way as well without speaking to a live operator.
I must say this, this sight and all who participate Including Alex who set this up, are great.
Thanks, David! I’m honored and humbled 🙂
Alex, I just tried it, unfortunately the directions can not be sent to my display, why I do not know, they said go back to your dealer.The only thing I can get is voice turn by turn, I am not interested in that.>My display is large however it appears I do not have that function to display the Nav..And at over thirty dollars a month, after the trial period, I would not be interested.I am returning the Garmin to Cosco, as it interferes with my Bluetooth.
Weird, that’s the first I’ve ever heard of the displaying not being able to display the directions.
Can you snap a photo and send it to me to alex [at] gmauthority [dot] com.
Was a passenger in a 2011 Nox with a 4 cyl. recently. I was incredibly impressed, loved the ride the back seats were incredibly comfortable. I was really impressed with the 4 cyl’s power, I honestly thought it was the 6, my friend assured me it was a 4. Hands down would buy and recommend one of these.
I live in Canada, checked with the dealer and was told the only time you will see a map on your display, is if you have a Nav system installed .I have the 7 inch screen, however I am not interested in voice turn by turn Navigation.It appears I have no choice but to go aftermarket, I like to see where I am going.Now another problem arises, where they wished to put the new bracket for the Nav system, there is the slot for the CD player.They took pics and are going to try and figure something out.
David, I believe your dealer is incorrect. You won’t see a “map” per se — you will see little arrows and street names in the DIC (Driver Info Center) and on the center display. It’s not a full-fledged map, but it gets the “job” done.
what would u recomend and why??? 2012 awd 4 cyl terrain or equinox
Simply depends on your preference of styling. Overall, the two are pretty much identical.
I like both equally well but think the Terrain is more masculine and looks best in darker colors, while the Equinox is more feminine.