2009 Chevrolet Equinox: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2009 Chevrolet Equinox is that head-curtain side airbags with rollover sensors become standard on every trim. Otherwise, this is a light update in the final year before the 2010 redesign.
About the 2009 Chevrolet Equinox
1st gen (2005-2009), final year before the 2010 redesign
Chevrolet pitched the 2009 Equinox as a right-size family crossover with SUV styling, standard V6 power, and more passenger flexibility than many compact rivals. Its signature features were the long wheelbase, sliding rear seat, flat-fold front passenger seat, and available AWD. Compared with a CR-V or RAV4 of the time, the Equinox leaned more toward V6 strength, towing confidence, and a roomy, traditional SUV feel than maximum fuel economy.
The 2009 Equinox is a roomy, V6-powered family SUV, with the LS serving as the straightforward entry model and the LT adding everyday convenience. The LTZ focuses on comfort with heated seats, leather seat inserts, and upgraded audio, while the Sport uses a 264-hp 3.6-liter V6, a six-speed automatic, and a firmer suspension.
What changed, by category
2009 Chevrolet Equinox specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.4 Liter | V6, 3.4 Liter | V6, 3.4 Liter | V6, 3.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 17 mpg | 17 mpg | 17 mpg | 16 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | 24 mpg |
| Horsepower | 185 hp | 185 hp | 185 hp | 264 hp |
| Torque | 210 lb-ft | 210 lb-ft | 210 lb-ft | 250 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3500 lb | 3500 lb | 3500 lb | 3500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 68.6 cu-ft | 68.6 cu-ft | 68.6 cu-ft | 68.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 40.2 in | 40.2 in | 40.2 in | 40.2 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Privacy Glass | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2009 Chevrolet Equinox?
The biggest change is improved standard safety equipment. Every 2009 Equinox trim has head-curtain side airbags with rollover sensors.
Is the 2009 Chevrolet Equinox a redesigned model?
No. The 2009 Equinox keeps the first-generation design and is the final model year before the SUV’s 2010 redesign.
Which 2009 Chevrolet Equinox trims have Bluetooth?
Bluetooth hands-free phone capability is included on the 2009 LT, LTZ, and Sport models. The LS does not receive this tech update.
What makes the 2009 Equinox Sport different from the other trims?
The Sport is the performance-focused version. It has a 264-hp 3.6-liter V6, a six-speed automatic, firmer suspension tuning, hydraulic steering, and unique exterior details; the LS, LT, and LTZ use a 3.4-liter V6 with a five-speed automatic.
Does the 2009 Equinox LS have the new standard airbags?
Yes. The 2009 LS has head-curtain side airbags with rollover sensors, just like the LT, LTZ, and Sport.