IN THE Australian production world, Holden’s SUV range takes on even greater importance and the company must improve its ability to compete in the segment.

The first SUV model to be revamped since the end of local production of the Commodore, the Equinox lands to take the reins from the already-discontinued Captiva 5 in the booming mid-size SUV segment and competes directly against the likes of the Mazda CX-5, Toyota RAV4 and Ford Escape.

The new-look Holden snout and a more cohesive exterior give the Equinox more attractive styling than its predecessor, while locally tuned road manners and a three-engine, five-grade line-up ensure buyers take home an SUV tailored to Australian conditions.

However, the Mexican-built Equinox faces a tough fight against a myriad of more-established, and critically adored, competitors.