The 2019 Chevrolet Equinox 2.0L FWD gets 25 MPG combined, which is a reasonable trade-off if you want space, comfort, and features more than the best possible fuel economy. It’s a family crossover SUV meant for passengers and cargo, and its gas mileage reflects that.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Equinox 2.0L FWD gets 22 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. This difference is due to the engine’s characteristics. In urban driving, the 2.0L engine works harder to move the Equinox, decreasing fuel efficiency. However, on the highway, the nine-speed automatic transmission allows the engine to run at lower RPMs, increasing highway MPG closer to 30 MPG. Drivers who spend more time on highways will get the most out of this Equinox configuration.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox 2.0L FWD is $2,300. This is based on 15,000 miles per year and national average fuel prices. Your individual costs may vary based on your driving and local fuel prices. This gives potential buyers a clear idea of the long-term costs of owning this Equinox.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are standardized, but real-world fuel economy varies. Several factors affect MPG in practice. Hard acceleration, frequent braking, and heavy loads will lower fuel efficiency. A gentle driving style and consistent highway speeds can improve MPG to near or even above the EPA estimates. Tire pressure is also important; properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance and improve economy. Check online forums and owner reviews to see what Equinox owners are experiencing in their daily driving.

How it compares

The 2019 Equinox 2.0L FWD competes in the compact SUV segment. The Honda CR-V, in its non-turbocharged LX trim, gets a combined 28 MPG, which is better gas mileage than the Equinox. The Toyota RAV4 also does better, with a combined 30 MPG for its LE FWD model. The Mazda CX-5, known for its performance, gets a combined 28 MPG in its base trim. This means buyers need to consider the trade-offs. The Equinox doesn’t have the best fuel economy, but it often costs less and offers a large interior and technology and comfort features, which impact the overall value equation. Buyers interested in all Chevrolet fuel economy data can review more models. Those wanting additional information on the EQUINOX MPG across all years are now able to easily compare, too.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Equinox’s 2.0L turbocharged engine responds to a moderate driving style. Avoid accelerating quickly and use cruise control on the highway to maintain a steady speed. This keeps the engine running in its most efficient range.

Keep your Equinox’s tires inflated to the pressure on the driver’s side door jamb. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and wasting gas. Check your tire pressure often, especially when the temperature changes.

Don’t carry unnecessary weight in the car. Extra cargo adds to the load, decreasing fuel efficiency. Remove items you don’t need for your daily driving. This means taking out rarely-used sports gear, tools, and other heavy things.

The Equinox’s nine-speed automatic transmission optimizes fuel economy by keeping the engine in the correct gear. Avoid using manual shift mode unless you need to, and let the transmission do its job. This allows the vehicle to shift at the most efficient times.

Consider using the Equinox’s “Driver Mode Control” to select the most efficient driving mode. If equipped, the “Eco” mode will prioritize efficiency by reducing throttle response and adjusting transmission shift points, which can improve MPG.