2008 Chevrolet Equinox Sport

Chevrolet’s sporty version of its popular Equinox SUV comes with a beefed-up engine, bigger wheels, as well as a new six-speed automatic gearbox. The fact that there are some actual performance benefits with the “sports” version is nice to see; we come across too many cars fitted with trinkets that offer no benefits.

To give the Equinox Sport a sportier look, GM has removed the roof rack (though it’s still available as an option), added front and rear aero parts, and installed 18” wheels shod with P235/50R18 tires. Inside are new seats with bolsters for better support when cornering.

GM’s 3.6L V-6 powers the Equinox Sport. It is a DOHC engine with variable valve timing that delivers 263hp and 342Nm – a massive 42% power increase over the Equinox LT. The 3.6L engine is paired with a new Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic and powers the SUV to a 0-60 mph time of less than seven seconds. The suspension has also been improved to deliver a sportier ride.

The 2008 Equinox Sport is scheduled to arrive at Chevrolet dealerships in the third quarter of 2007. Front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models are available.

Click ahead for full image gallery and the press release.