Does Chevy Equinox have a turbo?
Yes. The current Chevy Equinox uses turbocharged gasoline engines. In the latest models, the lineup relies on a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder as the standard powerplant; a larger 2.0-liter turbo was available in earlier generations but is not offered today. There is no diesel option in the current Equinox lineup.
Turbo setup in the Equinox today
1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (standard)
The modern Equinox uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder as the default engine in most trims. It is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and commonly offered with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, depending on the chosen configuration.
2.0-liter turbo (historical option)
In earlier generations, Chevrolet offered a larger 2.0-liter turbo in select trims for higher performance. That powerplant is not part of the current model-year lineup and is not available on recent Equinox models.
Engine options at a glance
- Current and recent models: 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder is the standard engine; all-wheel drive is available on many trims.
- Older model years: A 2.0-liter turbo was available on higher-end trims in certain years, delivering more power.
For any given vehicle, the exact engine option depends on the model year and trim. Always check the window sticker or ask a dealer for the precise engine description.
How to verify whether your Equinox has a turbo
If you're unsure whether your specific vehicle is equipped with a turbo, use these steps to confirm:
- Check the window sticker (Monroney label) or the vehicle's build sheet for the engine description.
- Open the hood and look for turbocharger components and intercooler piping that typically run from the exhaust manifold to the turbo and to the intercooler.
- Look for a "Turbo" badge on the back of the vehicle or in the engine bay, or refer to the owner's manual for engine specifications.
- Use the VIN to decode the engine type via GM's official service resources or contact a Chevrolet dealer.
- If in doubt, contact a dealer with your VIN for a definitive answer.
Knowing the exact engine helps with maintenance, fuel economy expectations, and performance characteristics.
Performance and fuel economy considerations
Turbocharged engines in the Equinox are designed to balance everyday usability with improved efficiency. The smaller 1.5-liter turbo delivers adequate power for daily driving and typically offers better fuel economy than older, non-turbo small-displacement engines. The larger 2.0-liter turbo, when it was offered, provided more horsepower at the expense of lower fuel economy and higher maintenance complexity. All-wheel drive can affect fuel economy, and real-world mileage varies by drivetrain, terrain, and driving style.
Summary
The Chevy Equinox uses turbocharged engines, with the current lineup centered on a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. A larger 2.0-liter turbo option existed in earlier model years but is not part of today’s lineup, and there is no current diesel option. If you own or are shopping for an Equinox, verify the engine on your specific vehicle via the window sticker or VIN for an accurate understanding of performance and maintenance needs.
