Can you get a Chevy Equinox with a V6 engine?

The current Chevrolet Equinox lineup does not offer a V6 engine; modern models use turbocharged four-cylinder powertrains instead. If you’re after a V6, you’d have needed to look at older generations or other GM SUVs, but the Equinox itself no longer provides a V6 option.

Current engine options in the Equinox

To understand what you can buy today, here are the engine choices available in the latest generation. This section explains the options before you consider whether a V6 could be found in a new model.

• 1.5L turbocharged inline-4 (standard on most trims)


• 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 (available on higher trims or with certain packages)

In practice, no V6 is offered in the current Equinox lineup. If you want V6 power from Chevrolet, you would need to consider other models or older Equinox generations.

Why GM moved away from V6 in the Equinox

Over the years, General Motors shifted toward smaller, turbocharged four-cylinder engines across its compact and midsize SUVs to improve fuel economy and meet evolving emissions standards. The Equinox followed that trend as part of a broader redesign and refresh of the model line, prioritizing efficiency and modernization over a traditional larger-displacement V6 option.

Historical context: V6 options in earlier Equinox generations

In earlier generations, the Equinox did offer V6 engines. Those options were phased out as GM pursued turbocharged four-cylinder powerplants across its small- and mid-size SUVs. While older models could be found with V6 power, they are no longer produced for the current model years.

Tips for buyers considering a used Equinox with V6 history

If you are shopping for a used Equinox and want to verify whether a given vehicle had a V6 engine, consider these steps before you buy.

• Check the vehicle’s engine badge and window sticker for the engine type listed.


• Review the VIN or service records to confirm the original drivetrain specification.


• Ask the dealer or seller to pull the original build sheet or GM spec sheets for the year in question.

Note that even if a used Equinox had a V6 in its past, it would come with older technology and lower fuel efficiency compared to current turbocharged four-cylinder options.

Summary

The Chevrolet Equinox does not offer a V6 engine in its current model years (as of 2024–2025). Prospective buyers should look at turbocharged four-cylinder options (1.5L or 2.0L) or consider other GM SUVs if V6 power is a priority. For those exploring used models, always verify the exact engine and drivetrain history to avoid surprises, and weigh fuel economy and emissions alongside performance.

Do they make an Equinox with a V6?

Yes, the Chevy Equinox has had a V6 engine option in the past, but current models (2023 and later) are only offered with four-cylinder engines. Historically, the Equinox offered both a 3.4L V6 and a more powerful 3.6L V6 in different model years. 
You can watch this video to see a review of a past Chevy Equinox model with a V6 engine: 52sPluggedIn AutomotiveYouTube · Aug 29, 2025

• Historically Available: From its first generation, the Equinox was available with a 3.4L V6. Later, a more powerful 3.6L V6 was offered, particularly on the 2013-2017 models. 
• Current Models: For the 2023 and 2024 model years, the Equinox is equipped with a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and no V6 option is available. 
• Performance: The 3.6L V6 was a popular upgrade for those seeking more power, with a 2017 model offering 301 horsepower. 

Is the 3.6 L V6 Chevy a good engine?

The Chevy 3.6L V6 is considered a good engine for its power and fuel efficiency, but its reliability heavily depends on proper maintenance. It is known for potential issues with its timing chain system and oil consumption, especially in earlier models. To ensure longevity, consistent and frequent oil changes using full synthetic oil are crucial, and it is best to be aware of and address common issues like carbon buildup and potential water pump problems.
 
This video provides an overview of the Chevy 3.6L V6 engine, its features, and common issues: 42sSUV ZoneYouTube · Aug 11, 2025
Pros

• Good performance: The engine provides strong power delivery and adequate torque, making it suitable for a variety of vehicles. 
• Decent fuel economy: It offers a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency. 
• Built for longevity: When maintained properly, the engine is known to be durable and can last for many miles. 

Cons

• Maintenance-intensive: The engine can be unforgiving if maintenance is neglected, particularly with oil changes. 
• Timing chain issues: Earlier models were prone to timing chain stretch and failure, though GM made improvements in later years. 
• Oil consumption: Some versions are known to consume oil, which can be exacerbated if oil levels aren't regularly checked and maintained. 
• Complex and costly repairs: Due to its design, some major repairs, like timing chain replacement, can be labor-intensive and expensive. 

How to maintain the engine

• Change oil frequently: Follow a strict maintenance schedule and perform oil changes every 5,000 miles using full synthetic oil. 
• Monitor oil levels: Regularly check the oil level between changes and top it off as needed. 
• Address carbon buildup: Consider performing intake valve cleaning to prevent performance issues, especially for later models with direct injection. 
• Inspect cooling system: Keep an eye on coolant levels and check the water pump for leaks to prevent overheating. 

What engines are available in a Chevy Equinox?

The main engine option for the Chevrolet Equinox is a standard 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine. For previous model years, other options included a more powerful 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder and a 1.6L turbo-diesel engine. For current and upcoming models, the engine choice is limited to the 1.5L turbo, with horsepower varying based on whether the vehicle has front-wheel drive (175 hp) or all-wheel drive (203 hp). 
Current and upcoming models (2024-2026)

• 1.5L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder: This is the standard and only engine option for recent model years.
  • Horsepower: 175 hp for front-wheel drive models, and 203 hp for all-wheel drive models.
  • Torque: 184 lb-ft for front-wheel drive and 203 lb-ft for all-wheel drive.
  • Transmission: A continuously variable automatic (CVT) is paired with front-wheel drive, while a six-speed or eight-speed automatic transmission is used with all-wheel drive. 

Previous model years (e.g., 2018-2020)

• 1.5L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder: This was the standard option on many models. 
  • Horsepower: 170–175 hp. 
  • Torque: 203 lb-ft. 
• 2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder: This was a more powerful, optional engine available on LT and Premier trims of previous years. 
  • Horsepower: 252 hp. 
  • Torque: 260 lb-ft. 
• 1.6L Turbo-Diesel Four-Cylinder: This was another option available in some earlier models. 
  • Horsepower: 137 hp. 
  • Torque: 240 lb-ft. 

Does the 2025 Chevy Equinox have a V6 engine?

Under the hood of every Equinox is a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 175 horsepower. In front-wheel drive models, the turbo mates to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) but if you opt for all-wheel drive, you'll get an eight-speed automatic instead.