What is the difference between 1.5 l and 2.0 l Equinox?
The 2.0-liter turbo engine offers more power and higher towing capacity, while the 1.5-liter turbo prioritizes fuel efficiency and everyday practicality. Choosing between them comes down to how you plan to use the vehicle and what balance of speed, economy, and cost matters most.
In the following sections, we break down how each engine performs, what you can expect in terms of capability, and how availability varies across trims and model years. This will help you decide which engine aligns with your driving needs and budget.
Power, performance, and capability
Key specifications and how they translate to real-world driving are laid out below.
- Horsepower and torque: The 1.5L turbo makes about 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. The 2.0L turbo delivers around 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The gap in output is the main reason for stronger acceleration with the 2.0L.
- Transmission and drivetrain: Both engines are paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is available with either engine, though availability may depend on model year and trim.
- Acceleration and feel: The 1.5L turbo provides smooth, efficient acceleration suited to daily driving, while the 2.0L turbo offers notably quicker acceleration and stronger passing power, especially with all-wheel drive engaged.
- Towing capability: With the appropriate equipment, the 1.5L is typically rated to tow around 1,500 pounds, whereas the 2.0L can tow up to about 3,500 pounds when equipped with the necessary towing package.
- Fuel economy considerations: The 1.5L turbo generally yields better fuel economy, particularly in front-wheel-drive configurations. The 2.0L turbo sacrifices some efficiency to deliver higher power and torque.
- Maintenance and ownership: The 2.0L turbo uses more intricate components (such as a larger turbo and more boost pressure under load), which can translate to higher maintenance costs if issues arise. Routine service intervals are similar, but components on the larger engine tend to be more complex to service.
In short, the 1.5L engine favors efficiency and lower running costs, while the 2.0L engine targets performance and higher towing capacity, with trade-offs in fuel use and price.
Availability by trim and model year
Engine availability can vary by year and trim level. The 1.5L turbo is the more common, base-to-mid option across many trims, while the 2.0L turbo appears on higher-trim configurations or as a more premium upgrade in multiple model years. Always check the exact year and trim you’re considering, as Chevrolet’s lineup can shift with refreshes or packaging changes.
- 1.5L turbo availability: Typically offered on most trims at the lower to mid-range levels and across several model years. This engine is positioned as the everyday, efficiency-focused choice.
- 2.0L turbo availability: Generally available on higher trims or as an optional upgrade in many model years. It’s the option that emphasizes performance, with more power and higher towing capacity.
For buyers, this means a 1.5L-equipped Equinox is often a better fit if you value cost efficiency and lower running costs, while a 2.0L-equipped model suits those who want quicker acceleration, extra power for highway merging or light towing, and are willing to pay a premium for it.
Which engine suits which use case?
Practical daily driving
If most of your driving is around town and on highways with light loads, the 1.5L turbo is typically the smarter pick for its efficiency and steady performance.
Performance and towing focus
If you anticipate carrying heavier loads, frequently needing quick acceleration on ramps, or towing up to several thousand pounds, the 2.0L turbo offers a meaningful boost in capability.
Both engines share Chevy's modern turbocharged design and similar technology, so you’ll still get up-to-date infotainment, safety features, and the same chassis dynamics — with the primary differences lying in power, torque, towing, and fuel economy.
Summary
The 1.5L Equinox is the efficiency-minded choice, delivering adequate power for everyday driving with better fuel economy and lower operating costs. The 2.0L Equinox adds a significant horsepower and torque boost, better overtaking capability and higher tow ratings, at the expense of some efficiency and a higher price. Your decision should hinge on how you value performance versus economy, plus how much you expect to tow or haul regularly.
Bottom line: If you want brisk acceleration and stronger towing, lean toward the 2.0L; if you prioritize fuel savings and lower ownership costs for daily driving, the 1.5L is typically the better fit. Always verify the exact engine, drivetrain, and trim on the specific model year you’re considering, as configurations can vary.
