24 MPG combined is respectable for the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox AWD 2.0L. It’s not going to win any hypermiling contests, but for a compact SUV with all-wheel drive and a relatively powerful turbocharged engine, it strikes a reasonable balance between capability and fuel consumption. This Equinox is for buyers who prioritize space, all-weather confidence, and decent power over ultimate fuel efficiency, accepting the MPG trade-off for those benefits.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Equinox AWD 2.0L achieves 22 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the engine works harder to accelerate the vehicle from standstill. The 28 MPG highway rating shows the benefits of the 9-speed automatic transmission, which allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs at higher speeds, conserving fuel. Achieving the EPA’s sticker will largely depend on driving style and the type of roads you frequent. Short trips in cold weather, where the engine struggles to reach its optimal operating temperature, will inevitably drag the MPG down.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox AWD 2.0L is $2,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. Remember that fuel prices fluctuate, so your actual annual cost could be higher or lower depending on where you live and how much you drive. A driver covering significantly more than 15,000 miles annually will naturally see a higher fuel bill. Conversely, a driver who primarily takes short trips within a city might not reach 15,000 miles but could still see similar costs due to reduced MPG in urban conditions.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy often varies. Some drivers report slightly lower MPG than the sticker on the window, particularly in mixed driving conditions. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and extended idling can all negatively impact fuel consumption. However, careful driving habits and consistent highway cruising can often yield results that match or even exceed the EPA’s highway rating.

How it compares

The 2019 Equinox AWD 2.0L faces strong competition in the compact SUV segment. The Honda CR-V AWD, for example, achieves a combined EPA rating of 29 MPG with its 1.5L turbocharged engine. That’s a notable improvement over the Equinox. The Toyota RAV4 AWD, another popular choice, lands around 30 MPG combined in hybrid guise. Even the non-hybrid RAV4 manages slightly better fuel economy than the Equinox. However, these competitors might not offer the same level of power and acceleration as the Equinox’s 2.0L turbo. The Mazda CX-5 with its available turbocharged engine mirrors the Equinox’s mission somewhat closely, prioritizing performance, and therefore sacrifices some fuel efficiency. Understanding these trade-offs is critical for buyers prioritizing specific attributes. For research, explore all Chevrolet fuel economy data, as well as EQUINOX MPG across all years to assess long-term trends.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2.0L turbo engine in the Equinox responds well to smooth and deliberate throttle inputs. Avoid aggressive acceleration and try to anticipate traffic flow to minimize hard braking. Gentle driving will allow the 9-speed automatic to shift smoothly and keep the engine in its most efficient RPM range.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regularly checking tire pressure is a simple yet effective way to improve MPG.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying heavy cargo increases the amount of energy required to accelerate and maintain speed. Remove any items you don’t need on a regular basis to lighten the load.

Consider using cruise control on long highway drives. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which reduces the fluctuations in throttle input and fuel consumption. However, avoid using cruise control in hilly areas, as the system may aggressively downshift to maintain speed, negating the fuel-saving benefits.

Regular maintenance is essential for optimal fuel efficiency. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently and consumes less fuel.