28 MPG combined is perfectly adequate for the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox FWD 1.5L 4-cyl. This isn’t a hybrid and doesn’t pretend to be. It’s a practical, affordable compact SUV aimed at buyers who prioritize space, comfort, and ease of use over outright fuel efficiency. The Equinox buyer is often a young family or empty-nester who needs a reliable vehicle for daily commutes, weekend errands, and the occasional longer road trip, and for them, 28 MPG strikes a reasonable balance.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox FWD 1.5L achieves 26 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. The city MPG is decent, reflecting the engine’s responsiveness in typical stop-and-go traffic. The 31 MPG highway rating is achievable if you maintain a consistent speed and avoid aggressive acceleration. The 6-speed automatic transmission is geared to optimize fuel economy on the open road, but it sometimes feels dated compared to the 8- or 10-speed units found in some competitors. Still, for the vast majority of driving scenarios, it gets the job done efficiently.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox FWD 1.5L at exactly $1,550. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Factors like your individual driving habits, local fuel costs, and the type of fuel you use (regular unleaded is recommended) can influence this number. If you drive less than 15,000 miles annually, your fuel costs will naturally be lower, and vice versa. This is a helpful benchmark for comparing the Equinox’s running costs to other vehicles in its class.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a good baseline, real-world fuel economy often varies depending on driving conditions and habits. Expect to see numbers slightly lower than the EPA estimates if you frequently encounter heavy traffic, drive aggressively, or live in hilly terrain. Conversely, you may achieve better fuel economy if you primarily drive on the highway at moderate speeds.

Consistent maintenance, including regular tire inflation and oil changes, is also critical for maximizing fuel efficiency. Owners often report figures close to the EPA estimates with careful driving.

How it compares

The Honda CR-V, a perennial rival, achieves 28 MPG combined in its standard FWD configuration (LX trim), matching the Equinox. The Toyota RAV4 FWD, another popular choice, also claims 28 MPG combined. However, both the CR-V and RAV4 offer hybrid versions with significantly better fuel economy, in the high 30s to low 40s. The Nissan Rogue S FWD achieves 30 MPG combined, slightly better than the Equinox. For the Equinox buyer, who is often prioritizing up-front cost and ease of maintenance, a slightly lower MPG number is an acceptable trade-off versus the higher price and complexity of a hybrid.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Gentle starts and stops not only improve fuel economy but also reduce wear and tear on your vehicle’s brakes and tires. The Equinox’s 1.5L engine responds best to smooth, consistent throttle inputs.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. This is a simple task that can have a measurable impact on your MPG.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in your Equinox adds weight, which increases fuel consumption. Remove any unnecessary items from your vehicle, especially heavy objects. The Equinox’s spacious cargo area is a selling point, but using it wisely can save you fuel.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy, especially on long trips. Avoid using cruise control in hilly terrain, as the transmission may downshift frequently, negating any potential fuel savings.

Consider using the “ECO” mode, if equipped. This mode adjusts the engine and transmission settings to prioritize fuel economy. While it may slightly reduce performance, it can provide a noticeable improvement in MPG, especially during city driving.

Explore all Chevrolet fuel economy data or dig deeper into EQUINOX MPG across all years.