Owners of the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox with the front-wheel-drive configuration and the strong 3.6L V6 engine get 20 MPG combined. That number won’t win any awards in a world increasingly populated by hybrids and ultra-efficient small SUVs. However, the Equinox 3.6L isn’t about maximum fuel savings. It’s about providing a smooth, confident, and responsive driving experience in a practical crossover package, and that’s why its buyers accept this fuel economy.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox FWD 3.6L are 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure shows the engine’s increased workload in stop-and-go traffic, battling inertia and frequent acceleration. The highway MPG, on the other hand, is more optimistic, achieved under consistent cruising speeds where the engine operates more efficiently. That 24 MPG rating is attainable, but requires a disciplined right foot. Realistically, consistent hard acceleration will pull that number down closer to the city figure, even on the open road. This V6 runs best with smooth power delivery, not dragstrip antics.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox FWD 3.6L is $2,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Your actual fuel expenses will change depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you frequent, and the price of gasoline. Drivers with longer commutes or lead-footed tendencies should anticipate spending *more* than the EPA’s stated $2,200 per year. You can review all Chevrolet fuel economy data to see how this stacks up.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs. Drivers who frequently use the vehicle’s available power for merging or passing should expect fuel economy closer to the city rating, even on the highway. Likewise, prolonged idling in traffic or during cold weather warm-ups will also reduce the average. The 3.6L V6 delivers ample power, but it comes at a cost. Drivers who prioritize fuel economy will need to adopt a more gentle driving style and carefully monitor their driving habits.

How it compares

Compared to similarly sized crossovers, the 2016 Equinox 3.6L FWD lands in the middle of the pack. A 2016 Honda CR-V with its standard 2.4L four-cylinder engine achieves approximately 29 MPG combined, showing the efficiency gains of a smaller engine. However, the CR-V lacks the power of the Equinox V6. A 2016 Toyota RAV4, similarly equipped with a four-cylinder, manages around 25 MPG combined. The six-cylinder Nissan Murano from the same year posts numbers similar to the Equinox, prioritizing power over saving money. To save more gas within the Equinox lineup, explore EQUINOX MPG across all years as well as the 2.4L four-cylinder option available in the 2016 model. The choice comes down to priorities: responsive power or maximum efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The 3.6L V6 is responsive, but every stomp of the accelerator sends fuel consumption soaring. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a smooth, steady pace. The Equinox is a comfortable cruiser when driven with restraint.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which directly impacts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended level, usually found on a sticker in the driver’s side doorjamb. Small changes here can yield noticeable results over time.

Minimize idling. The 3.6L V6 consumes fuel even when stationary. If you’re waiting for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Constant idling, especially in cold weather, significantly degrades your overall fuel efficiency.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, minimizing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. This allows the engine to operate more efficiently, particularly on long journeys. You’ll see the biggest gains on relatively flat highway stretches.

Keep up with routine maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance ensure the engine operates at its peak efficiency. Neglecting these tasks can lead to decreased performance and reduced fuel economy. Treat this V6 well, and it’ll reward you (slightly) at the pump.