The 2010 Chevrolet Equinox compact crossover, which is all set to be unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show 2009 that will get underway next month, has been touted as General Motors’ foray into the compact direct-injection petrol engine space.

A clear take-off from the Chevrolet Malibu sedan and the Traverse crossover, the new Equinox will sport a two-tier grille and the gold Bowtie visage.

Photo: Chevy Equinox, debut at Detroit Motor Show

The Equinox is a five-passenger vehicle, which retains the previous model’s MultiFlex rear seat capability. The uniqueness about this is that it allows the seat to be moved forward and backwards nearly eight inches. The car will come with safety features such as six-airbags as standard, disc brakes with electronic stability control and traction control, plus standard OnStar and XM Satellite Radio, said previews of the car.

Photo:Chevy Equinox 2010 crossover

The car maker plans to debut the car by mid-2009 in the marketplace. The Equinox will be available in LS, LT and LTZ trim, and optional AWD models.

The new model will have additional features including a number of storage bins, such as an oversized glove box; a closed storage bin in the instrument panel above the center stack; and closed storage under the center armrest large enough for a laptop computer.

The car major expects to sell the new model with astounding success as it believes that almost two-thirds of customers will choose an efficient 182hp 2.4L engine. It is set to position the new Equinox in an effort to deliver best-in-segment highway fuel economy of 30 mpg.