The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox AWD with the 1.5L turbo four-cylinder gets 26 MPG combined. This is a compromise: all-weather capability and a spacious interior in exchange for fuel efficiency that’s merely adequate. This Equinox isn’t designed to win any hypermiling competitions; it’s designed to appeal to young families and practical-minded individuals in colder climates who prioritize safety, cargo space, and available features over class-leading efficiency.

City and highway performance

EPA estimates suggest the Equinox AWD 1.5L will achieve 24 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s work required to repeatedly accelerate the fairly heavy SUV from a standstill. The 8-speed automatic transmission does its best to keep the engine in its most efficient range, but stop-and-go traffic will always impact fuel consumption. On the highway, the Equinox is more relaxed. The 29 MPG figure represents a more consistent speed and less demand on the engine. Keep in mind that headwinds and higher speeds above 70 mph will noticeably reduce highway mileage.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox AWD 1.5L at $1,700. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is just an estimate. Your own driving habits, the type of driving you do, the price of fuel in your area, and how well you maintain your vehicle will alter the final number. If you drive significantly more than 15,000 miles per year, or if fuel prices rise sharply, you can expect to pay substantially more. For example, someone covering 25,000 miles annually will likely see their fuel costs approaching $2,800 or more. This assumes you use regular unleaded fuel, as the 1.5L turbo is designed to run on it.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy can vary. Many drivers find that achieving the EPA’s highway figure of 29 MPG is realistic during steady-state cruising on flat terrain. However, those who frequently encounter hills, heavy traffic, or prioritize brisk acceleration may find themselves averaging closer to the combined 26 MPG figure, or even slightly below. The AWD system, while beneficial in snow and ice, also adds some weight and drivetrain friction, which contributes to a slight decrease in fuel economy compared to the front-wheel-drive version of the Equinox. Check owner forums and fuel tracking apps for a broader range of reported MPG figures from actual Equinox drivers. You can also see all all Chevrolet fuel economy data.

How it compares

The Equinox’s fuel economy is in a very competitive segment. The Honda CR-V AWD achieves an EPA combined rating of 29 MPG, giving it a noticeable edge. The Toyota RAV4 AWD also performs similarly to the CR-V. Even the Mazda CX-5, known more for its engaging driving dynamics, manages a combined 26 MPG with its standard AWD system and base engine, matching the Equinox. The Subaru Forester, another popular choice with standard AWD, also sits around 28 MPG combined. For the Equinox buyer, fuel economy is likely not the primary decision-making factor, but the availability of more efficient alternatives may prompt consideration. The Equinox often lies in its value, interior space, and user-friendly technology, despite lagging slightly behind in fuel efficiency. You might also want to consider what the EQUINOX MPG across all years looks like.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Equinox’s 1.5L turbo engine responds favorably to gentle acceleration. Avoid aggressive starts and maintain a steady speed to minimize fuel consumption. Pay attention to the road ahead and anticipate traffic flow to avoid unnecessary braking and acceleration. The engine is equipped with start/stop technology that shuts off when idling, saving fuel in stop-and-go situations. Ensure this system is enabled if you spend considerable time in city traffic.

Check your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which drags down fuel economy. Consult the sticker on your driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure for your Equinox. A simple tire pressure gauge can help make sure your tires are always properly inflated.

Remove any unnecessary weight from your vehicle. Extra cargo in the trunk or backseat adds to the vehicle’s overall weight, requiring the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Lighten your load by removing items you don’t need for your daily driving.

When possible, use cruise control on the highway to maintain a constant speed. This helps prevent unintentional speed fluctuations that can negatively impact fuel economy, especially over longer distances. The Equinox’s adaptive cruise control system can further enhance efficiency and driving ease by automatically adjusting speed to maintain a safe following distance.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance, particularly air filter replacements. A clogged air filter restricts airflow to the engine, forcing it to work harder and reducing fuel efficiency. Replacing the air filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendations will ensure optimal engine performance and fuel economy.