The 2018 Chevrolet Equinox FWD 1.6L diesel gets 32 MPG combined. This fuel economy elevates this specific Equinox configuration above other compact SUVs. It appeals to budget-conscious buyers who want fuel efficiency without sacrificing the practicality of a small crossover. This is a pragmatic choice focused on minimizing running costs, and that MPG figure is the key selling point.

City and highway performance

While the combined figure is impressive, the individual city and highway ratings offer further insight. The EPA estimates 28 MPG in the city, which is respectable for stop-and-go driving. Daily commutes and errands won’t drain your wallet as quickly as with other vehicles in its class. On the open road, the Equinox shines, getting a commendable 39 MPG highway. Long road trips become more affordable, making this variant a good option for families who frequently travel or individuals with lengthy commutes. The combination of these figures paints a picture of a vehicle designed for both urban environments and long-distance cruising, suited to the needs of many modern drivers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $1,750 for the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox FWD 1.6L diesel. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel prices at the time of testing. It’s a standardized metric that allows buyers to easily compare the running costs of different vehicles. For Equinox owners, this represents a tangible benefit, translating into potential savings of hundreds of dollars per year compared to less fuel-efficient SUVs. This is a strong selling point for those on a fixed budget who want to know exactly what to expect in terms of fuel expenses.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy can vary depending on driving habits, terrain, weather conditions, and vehicle maintenance. Aggressive acceleration and braking will negatively impact fuel consumption, and so will sustained high speeds. Proper tire inflation, regular maintenance, and minimizing unnecessary weight in the vehicle can all help to improve fuel efficiency. Drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration, anticipate traffic flow, and avoid idling can expect to get closer to the EPA estimates. Winter blends of diesel fuel often result in slightly lower MPG numbers.

How it compares

The 2018 Equinox diesel distinguishes itself in a competitive segment. Consider the Honda CR-V, a perennial favorite known for its reliability. The CR-V, with its 1.5L turbo engine, achieves a combined MPG of around 30, slightly lower than the Equinox diesel. The Toyota RAV4, another popular choice, returns approximately 26 MPG combined with its standard gasoline engine. Even hybrid variants of the RAV4 only achieve around 34 MPG combined. The Jeep Compass, with its 2.4L engine, typically manages around 25 MPG combined. In this context, the Equinox diesel’s 32 MPG stands out. It has a clear advantage, especially for buyers who prioritize fuel efficiency. These competitors all offer different strengths, but the Equinox has a significant edge on highway mileage, which is what long-distance drivers want.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 1.6L diesel in the Equinox responds well to gentle throttle inputs. Avoid aggressive acceleration and try to maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Let the engine’s torque do the work, rather than flooring the accelerator.

Diesel engines benefit from proper warm-up. Avoid prolonged idling in cold weather. Start driving gently to allow the engine to reach its optimal operating temperature. This improves combustion efficiency and reduces emissions.

Regular maintenance is critical for maintaining fuel economy. Keep the engine properly tuned, replace air filters as recommended, and ensure the fuel system is clean. Clogged fuel filters and dirty injectors can significantly reduce fuel efficiency.

Tire pressure plays an important role in fuel consumption. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels found on the doorjamb sticker. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, leading to decreased fuel economy.

Use cruise control on long highway drives. This helps to maintain a consistent speed, minimizing unnecessary acceleration and braking, which can significantly improve fuel efficiency. Programming the cruise control carefully on rolling hills can help manage fuel spend.

See all Chevrolet fuel economy data. You can also check on EQUINOX MPG across all years.