The 2019 Chevrolet Equinox FWD 1.5L gets 28 MPG combined, making it a decent choice in the crowded compact SUV segment. It’s a number that works for buyers who want practicality and affordability, not performance or off-road capability. These shoppers are typically families, commuters, or empty-nesters who value space, comfort, and keeping costs down. Fuel economy is important, and while not the best in its class, the Equinox 1.5L offers a good mix of efficiency and utility for their needs. They accept its fuel economy because it’s “good enough” considering that it’s a competent, comfortable, and well-equipped SUV at a competitive price.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Equinox 1.5L at 26 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. The city figure shows the engine’s responsiveness in stop-and-go traffic, where the turbocharger provides a boost of torque to help it accelerate. However, frequent acceleration and idling can drastically decrease fuel economy in city driving, no matter what the EPA says. On the highway, the Equinox gets a commendable 32 MPG. Its relatively efficient engine and smooth six-speed automatic transmission help . This MPG requires driving at consistent speeds, avoiding aggressive acceleration, and using cruise control when possible. These numbers are only for the front-wheel-drive model; the all-wheel-drive version will have slightly lower fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox 1.5L FWD is around $1,550. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and on national average fuel prices when it was calculated. This is just an estimate, so your actual fuel costs may be different. How you drive, the type of fuel you use, and local gas prices all change the real cost. While this $1,550 gives you a good idea, individual driving habits and fuel prices can really change how much you spend each year.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a useful starting point, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Owners of the 2019 Equinox 1.5L FWD usually report numbers that are within a few MPG of the EPA estimates. Several things can cause this. Hard acceleration, lots of passengers and cargo, and frequent short trips can hurt fuel economy. But gentle acceleration, consistent highway speeds, and proper tire inflation can help you match or beat the EPA estimates. Because the Equinox is often a family vehicle, it often faces conditions that reduce fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The 2019 Equinox 1.5L FWD’s fuel economy is similar to other popular compact SUVs. The Honda CR-V, without a hybrid system, gets around 28 MPG combined, making it a direct competitor. The Toyota RAV4, before hybrid options became more common, also got around 28-30 MPG combined with its gasoline engine. These are all strong options for compact SUV buyers. The Mazda CX-5, known for its good driving, gets around 25 MPG combined with its base engine (but its optional turbo engine burns more fuel). The Subaru Forester, with standard all-wheel drive, gets around 29 MPG combined, showing that AWD doesn’t always hurt efficiency. For shoppers considering the Equinox, these MPG numbers are important to compare. They should consider if the Chevy has better value, features, or is more fun to drive than its closest rivals. You can also see all Chevrolet fuel economy data for a greater look within the brand.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 1.5L turbocharged engine in the 2019 Equinox works best with smooth throttle control. Avoid hard acceleration from a stop, especially when the engine is cold. This can significantly decrease fuel economy. Starting gently will let the turbocharger spool up without wasting extra fuel.

Regular maintenance is important for getting the best fuel efficiency. Make sure the tires are inflated to the right pressure, as low tires increase rolling resistance and reduce MPG. Also, follow the recommended oil change schedule. Old or dirty oil can hurt engine performance and reduce efficiency.

Try not to load the engine with too many accessories, like air conditioning. Running the A/C at full blast, especially when it’s hot out, can really reduce fuel economy. If it’s nice out, use the ventilation system or open the windows. Reduce the fan speed to save energy when you really need the A/C.

Plan your routes to avoid stop-and-go traffic if you can. Traffic burns fuel, so try to take routes that minimize idling. Navigation apps with real-time traffic updates can help you find alternate routes and avoid gridlock, ultimately saving fuel.

Reduce weight in the vehicle. Too much cargo puts strain on the engine and reduces fuel economy. Remove anything you don’t need from the trunk or back seats. Avoid using a roof rack or cargo carrier unless you have to, as these increase drag and reduce efficiency. For information about EQUINOX MPG across all years, check out our Equinox model page.