Is the Chevy Equinox fast?
The quick answer: not fast by sports-car standards, but the Equinox offers brisk acceleration with its 2.0L turbo and solid efficiency with the 1.5L turbo. This article breaks down the engine options, official numbers, and what you can expect in daily driving.
Engine options and performance figures
The Equinox is offered with two turbocharged four-cylinder engines. Here are the key specs that influence pace and efficiency.
- 1.5-liter turbocharged I-4 — about 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque; 9-speed automatic; available in FWD and AWD.
- 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 — about 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque; 9-speed automatic; typically paired with AWD; higher trims emphasize performance.
In short, engine choice determines acceleration, feel, and fuel economy, with the 2.0T offering substantially quicker launches at the expense of efficiency.
Real-world acceleration and driving feel
What matters to most buyers is how the Equinox feels on the road and in tests. Official numbers can vary with drivetrain, tires, and testing conditions.
- 0-60 mph with 1.5L turbo (FWD): roughly 8.5 to 9.5 seconds; 1.5L with AWD is typically similar or slightly slower.
- 0-60 mph with 2.0L turbo (FWD): roughly 6.0 to 7.0 seconds depending on trim and tires.
- 0-60 mph with 2.0L turbo (AWD): about 6.0 seconds or a touch faster in optimal conditions.
- Braking and handling: The Equinox prioritizes ride comfort and stability over razor-sharp handling; the 2.0T remains confident for everyday driving and highway merging.
In practice, the 2.0L turbo-equipped Equinox can feel notably quicker for a compact SUV, while the 1.5L turbo delivers ample usability with better fuel economy.
Notes on real-world tests
Automotive journalists often point out that acceleration is affected by cargo, passengers, weather, and tires. Independent tests show a range of times for the same configuration, particularly for the 2.0L turbo depending on tires and drivetrain.
The figures above are general ranges from manufacturer data and consumer testing. Actual times vary by model year, tires, altitude, and load.
Choosing a model: speed vs. efficiency
If speed is your priority, the 2.0L turbo with AWD is the quickest configuration. If daily commuting and fuel economy matter most, the 1.5L turbo offers a balanced mix of performance and efficiency.
Bottom line for buyers
For most drivers, the Equinox’s speed is adequate for everyday driving, highway merging, and family trips. It isn’t a performance SUV, but the 2.0L turbo can deliver a satisfying edge in acceleration for its class. Always test-drive your preferred configuration to judge how it feels with your usual cargo and passengers.
Summary
The Chevy Equinox sits in the realm of practical, everyday crossovers rather than speed-focused machines. Two turbocharged engines—1.5L and 2.0L—provide a clear trade-off: the 1.5L turbo emphasizes efficiency and comfort, while the 2.0L turbo offers brisker acceleration. Real-world speed depends on drivetrain, tires, and payload, but for most buyers the Equinox delivers competent, confident performance suitable for daily use rather than dazzling sports-car numbers. If you want stronger acceleration, choose the 2.0L turbo with AWD; if you prioritize efficiency and comfort, the 1.5L turbo is the better fit.
What are the Equinox's pros and cons?
Good-looking exterior and interior designs, attractive base price, strong offering of connectivity features. Engine could use more oomph, uncompetitive fuel economy, noisy inside on the highway. The redesigned Equinox looks and feels more modern than before but still isn't a standout in the compact-SUV segment.
How fast is the Chevy Equinox?
120mph
Equinox Engine Overview
| 2021 Chevrolet Equinox Engine Specs | ||
|---|---|---|
| Premier | 1.5L Turbocharged 4-cylinder | 120mph (Estimated) |
| RS | 1.5L Turbocharged 4-cylinder | 120mph (Estimated) |
| LT | 1.5L Turbocharged 4-cylinder | 120mph (Estimated) |
| LS | 1.5L Turbocharged 4-cylinder | 120mph (Estimated) |
Are Chevy Equinox turbo?
Yes, the Chevrolet Equinox comes with a turbo engine, as a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder is standard on recent models like the 2025 and 2026 versions. Some older models also offered a more powerful 2.0L turbocharged engine.
You can watch this video to learn about the 1.5L turbo engine in the 2025 Chevy Equinox: 57sCar ConfectionsYouTube · Aug 30, 2024
- Standard turbo engine: The 1.5L turbocharged engine is the standard powertrain for the latest models, offering a balance of fuel efficiency and power.
- Older model option: A more powerful 2.0L turbocharged engine was available on some older Equinox models.
- Powertrain variations: For newer models, the standard 1.5L engine's torque output can differ between front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) versions, and the transmission also changes.
What Chevy Equinox to stay away from?
You should avoid Chevy Equinox model years 2010–2013 due to widespread problems with excessive oil consumption, engine issues, and stalling. Other years to be cautious about are the first generation models 2005–2008, which had issues like head gasket failures, and the 2015 model, which had a dangerous airbag defect.
Specific model years to avoid
- 2005–2008: First-generation models, particularly the 2005, experienced significant engine problems like head gasket failures.
- 2010–2013: This range is highly problematic for the second generation, with the 2.4L four-cylinder engine being especially prone to excessive oil consumption, stalling, and other engine damage.
- 2015: A dangerous airbag defect was a major issue, where the front seat-mounted side impact airbag inflator could rupture on deployment.
- 2018: The first year of a redesigned generation had issues with the powertrain, including a potential problem with the right front intermediate drive shaft fracturing.
Common issues across various model years
- Oil Consumption: Primarily affects the 2010–2017 models, requiring frequent oil additions.
- Transmission Problems: Reported in some models from 2011–2012 and 2010-2015 models with the 3.6L V6.
- Electrical and Battery Issues: Occurred in the 2015 model, and 2005 models had ignition switch problems.
- Brake and Fuel System Issues: Specific defects in some models, such as brake caliper issues in 2020 models, and a fuel pump problem in 2021-2024 models.
Which models are safer to buy
- First generation (2008–2009): These are considered better options within the first generation.
- Third generation (2017 onwards): Models from 2017, and especially 2019–2021, are considered more reliable, with 2019 being the first year after the 2018 redesign.
