Conventional wisdom tells you that in order to get a premium SUV you have to sacrifice savings. There's no real value without maximum monetary output, so on and so forth. The 2014 Chevy Equinox is here to prove that premium doesn't mean breaking the bank. Take a seat, conventional wisdom, and welcome the crossover SUV that is an affordable alternative to the status quo.

With room for up to five adults and enough style to make Versace roll over in his grave, the new Equinox represents the future of Chevrolet. Their ability to blend affordability and premium features is what the auto-buying public has asked for for years and never gotten. As one of the industry's most popular small crossovers, Equinox returns for 2014 with new standard features and new exterior colors like Red Rock Metallic and Silver Topaz Metallic.

Chevy Equinox shoppers in Kansas City can pick up this year's spacious model in LS, LT and LTZ trim levels. Two-wheel drive is standard, but buyers can opt for all-wheel drive as well. The 2014 Equinox comes standard with a 2.4-liter Ecotec direct-injected engine that produces 182 horsepower and 172 lb.-ft. of torque. An optional 3.6-liter V6 is also available and offers greater power and faster acceleration. This configuration delivers best-in-class 301 horsepower and 272 lb.-ft of torque.

A great list of standard and optional features further separates the 2014 Equinox from competitors like the Honda CR-V, Kia Sorento and Ford Escape. Count on the following creature comforts and amenities: climate control, cruise control, 17-inch wheels, keyless entry, Chevy's MyLink infotainment system, OnStar, cloth or leather seats, fully powered accessories, an eight-speaker Pioneer sound system, navigation and a dual-screen rear seat entertainment system.

Continue reading this Chevy Equinox review below and contact Van Chevy for more information and a test drive.