23 MPG combined won’t set any fuel-sipping records, but for the 2015 Chevrolet Equinox AWD 2.4L, it’s a reasonable compromise. Families needing flexible space and all-weather traction in a reliable package primarily buy this vehicle. They value practicality over outright efficiency and accept the fuel economy numbers.

City and highway performance

The Equinox’s 20 MPG city rating reflects stop-and-go traffic where the all-wheel-drive system and the SUV’s weight matter. The 2.4L four-cylinder engine works adequately around town, providing enough low-end torque for daily errands. Out on the highway, the situation improves.

If you maintain a steady speed and avoid aggressive acceleration, the 28 MPG highway rating is achievable. The six-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal rev range to conserve fuel during long trips. However, loading up with passengers and cargo, especially with a roof rack, will pull that number down closer to the city figure.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Chevrolet Equinox AWD 2.4L is $1,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes a national average fuel price. Individual fuel expenses will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the actual number of miles driven annually. Drivers who primarily stick to city streets or who drive aggressively will exceed this estimate. Those who drive mostly highway miles and drive conservatively can potentially come in under budget.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized test cycle, but your personal mileage is subject to variability. Expect to see numbers a bit lower than the sticker on the window if you regularly drive in demanding conditions or enjoy brisk acceleration. The AWD system constantly shuffles power around, and that uses extra fuel.

Mindful drivers who anticipate traffic, avoid unnecessary idling, and stick to posted speed limits can likely approach the EPA estimates. The EPA conducts its testing with modern synthetic motor oil, properly inflated tires, and no added roof racks or other accessories that would increase drag.

How it compares

The 2015 Equinox AWD’s fuel economy sits within a competitive range, but it doesn’t lead the pack. A similarly equipped Honda CR-V offered a slightly better 29 MPG combined during the same year. The Toyota RAV4, another popular compact SUV, also delivered slightly better numbers. For those who prioritize lower fuel costs, front-wheel drive variants of the Equinox offered superior EPA ratings. Drivers willing to sacrifice all-wheel drive could see noticeable improvements in their fuel bills.

Other considerations are similarly sized vehicles with hybrid powertrains. While more expensive, they offer far better fuel efficiency. The EQUINOX MPG across all years shows a clear pattern of increasing fuel economy in later models, especially with turbocharged engines.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Keep them at the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside your driver’s side door. Some adjustments can yield improvements.

Avoid short trips when possible. The engine operates less efficiently when it’s cold, so combining errands into a single trip allows the engine to reach its optimal operating temperature and improve fuel economy. The first few miles of a trip sees a dramatic increase in fuel consumption, especially in cooler weather.

Be mindful of your driving habits. Aggressive acceleration and hard braking waste fuel. Smooth, gradual acceleration and anticipating traffic flow can improve your MPG. The Equinox isn’t a sports car, driving it like one will only empty your wallet faster.

Lighten your load. Carrying unnecessary weight in your vehicle decreases fuel efficiency. Remove any items you don’t need, such as sporting equipment or extra cargo. Even small weight reductions can add up.

Be cautious with the air conditioning. The AC compressor puts a load on the engine. Use it only when necessary and consider using the recirculate function to cool the cabin. Opening the windows on the highway, as opposed to using AC, can actually harm aerodynamics and fuel economy. You can find all Chevrolet fuel economy data here.