Do Chevy Equinoxes have good gas mileage?
Yes. In general, Chevy Equinoxes offer competitive fuel economy for a compact SUV, especially when equipped with the 1.5-liter turbo engine. Typical combined fuel economy tends to land in the high 20s mpg, with higher numbers possible on two-wheel-drive configurations and lower numbers on all-wheel-drive setups or when choosing the larger turbo engine. There is no hybrid version of the Equinox, so mileage depends on engine and drivetrain choice rather than a hybrid system.
Engine options and EPA estimates
Key engine configurations and their efficiency
The following figures reflect EPA estimates for commonly configured Equinox models from recent years. They illustrate how the engine and drivetrain affect efficiency, not guaranteed results in every trip.
- 1.5L turbocharged inline-4 — Front-wheel drive: about 26 mpg city / 31 mpg highway / 28 mpg combined; All-wheel drive: about 25 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 27 mpg combined.
- 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 — Front-wheel drive: around 23 mpg city / 29 mpg highway / 25 mpg combined; All-wheel drive: around 22 mpg city / 28 mpg highway / 24 mpg combined.
- 2.4L naturally aspirated inline-4 (older configurations): around 22 mpg city / 32 mpg highway / 26–27 mpg combined.
Note: Model-year differences, transmission choices, and equipment can shift these figures. Real-world results vary with driving style, terrain, and weather conditions.
Real-world considerations and tips to maximize fuel economy
Practical driving tips to improve mileage
Beyond sticker numbers, several practical factors influence how much fuel a driver actually uses in the Equinox. The following guidelines help maximize efficiency in daily use.
- Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure and check them regularly; underinflation reduces efficiency and handling.
- Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, use the recommended oil grade, and keep air filters clean.
- Drive smoothly with gradual accelerations and steady speeds; heavy braking and rapid acceleration waste fuel.
- Use cruise control on highways where appropriate to maintain a steady pace and conserve fuel.
- Minimize aerodynamic drag by removing roof racks when not in use and avoiding roof-mounted cargo when possible.
Even with optimal driving practices, mileage will vary with load, terrain, climate, and overall driving habits.
How the Equinox stacks up in the segment
In the compact-SUV class, the Equinox’s 1.5L turbo configuration generally offers competitive fuel economy compared with rivals in the same category. While some competitors offer hybrid options that can beat gasoline-only models, the Equinox remains a solid choice for buyers who prioritize interior space and straightforward gasoline efficiency without considering a hybrid powertrain.
Summary
Bottom line: Chevy Equinoxes can deliver good gas mileage for a compact SUV, especially with the 1.5-liter turbo engine paired with two-wheel drive. Expect EPA-estimated combined mileage in the high 20s to around 30 mpg range for the most efficient configuration, with lower numbers for the more powerful 2.0-liter turbo or all-wheel-drive setups. Real-world results depend on driving style, conditions, and vehicle configuration, so prospective buyers should check EPA estimates for their specific model year and trim and test-drive to gauge actual performance.
