The 2018 Chevrolet Equinox AWD with the 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder achieves a combined fuel economy of 26 MPG. This figure reflects its position as a practical, comfortably sized crossover aimed at budget-conscious families. It prioritizes all-wheel drive traction and useful cargo capacity balanced against respectable, but not groundbreaking, fuel consumption.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 Equinox AWD 1.5L at 24 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The city figure suggests competent performance in the stop-and-go traffic typical during commutes. The small turbocharger provides sufficient low-end torque, and the Equinox buyer is likely to spend most of their time in these conditions, making the city MPG critically important.

The 30 MPG highway rating is realistic for longer trips. Drivers should note that aggressive acceleration or consistently exceeding posted speed limits will reduce these numbers, as is the case for virtually any vehicle. The 6-speed automatic transmission prioritizes fuel economy over outright shift speed, which helps maintain efficiency on long highway runs.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox AWD 1.5L at exactly $1,700. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is an estimate, and your actual fuel costs will vary depending on how much you drive, your driving style, and the price of gasoline in your area. The $1,700 annual fuel cost provides a baseline for owners to compare against their own spending and potentially adjust their driving habits to save money. Anyone considering all Chevrolet fuel economy data should pay particular attention to this type of annual figure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized testing regime, real-world fuel economy depends heavily on individual driving habits and conditions. Equinox owners report a range of MPG figures, often influenced by factors like terrain, climate, and the frequency of short versus long trips. Expect the all-wheel drive system to subtly decrease fuel efficiency compared to the front-wheel drive model, especially during dry conditions when it’s not actively needed.

Owners who prioritize smooth acceleration and consistent speeds are likelier to achieve numbers closer to the EPA estimates. Those living in hilly areas or regularly carrying heavy loads may observe slightly lower values. The EQUINOX MPG across all years shows slight variations based on model year and powertrain.

How it compares

The 2018 Equinox competes in a crowded field of compact SUVs. The Honda CR-V, in its all-wheel drive configuration, typically achieves a slightly better combined MPG, often around 28 MPG. The Toyota RAV4 AWD similarly offers around 25-26 MPG combined, depending on the model year. The Nissan Rogue AWD, another popular choice, also hovers around 26-27 MPG combined. These minor differences highlight the compromises inherent in the segment.

Shoppers seeking maximum fuel efficiency may gravitate towards hybrid SUVs or smaller, less powerful options. The Equinox buyer accepts a balance of fuel economy, spaciousness, and all-weather capability, positioning it as a well-rounded choice.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Adopt a smooth and gradual driving style. The 1.5L turbo engine is most efficient when accelerating gently and maintaining a consistent speed. Avoid sudden bursts of acceleration and hard braking, which consume more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and plan your route to minimize stop-and-go driving.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended PSI listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. This simple step can noticeably improve your MPG over time.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in your Equinox increases fuel consumption. Remove any items you don’t need, such as sports equipment, tools, or other bulky objects. A lighter vehicle requires less energy to accelerate and maintain speed.

Minimize idling. Excessive idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, making this a worthwhile habit.