Chevrolet redesigned the Equinox for 2018 using a platform created by Opel that cuts weight and overall length from the previous model. The 2018 Chevrolet Equinox includes more convenience and safety features that help the compact SUV stay relevant in the face of increasingly stiff competition from other domestic and import brands.
Here’s a quick look at the Equinox’s specifications.
Pricing
- The 2018 Equinox L has a starting price of $25,570 including a $995 destination charge.
- Premium models start at $39,290 with destination and climb above $40,000 with options.
- The 2017 Equinox started at $24,095 including a $995 destination charge.
Trims
- The 2018 Equinox is offered in four trims: L, LS, LT and Premier.
- Each trim is available with all-wheel drive. Although the Equinox is not offered with a hybrid or plug-in option, the LT and Premier trims can be equipped with an efficient turbo-diesel engine.
Dimensions
- The 2018 Equinox is 183.1 inches long, with a 107.3-inch wheelbase and a width of 72.6 inches.
Powertrain
- A 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gas engine is the standard engine offering, with 170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque.
- Two other engines can be optioned-in with various trim levels: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gas engine with 252 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque and a 1.6-liter turbo-diesel with 137 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque.
- The 1.5-liter gas and 1.6-liter diesel engines are mated to their own variations of a six-speed automatic gearbox, and the 2.0-liter gas engine gets a nine-speed automatic.
- All-wheel drive is optional over the default front-drive configuration.
Towing
- The Equinox reaches its max trailering ability of 3,500 pounds with the 2.0-liter gas engine under the hood.
Mileage
- When equipped with the 1.5-liter engine and FWD, the EPA estimates fuel economy at 26 mpg city/32 mpg highway/28 combined. With AWD, those figures change to 24/30/26 mpg respectively.
- The Equinox with FWD and 2.0-liter engine reach 22 mpg city/29 mpg highway/25 mpg combined, and 22/28/24 mpg with AWD.
- With diesel and front-wheel drive on board, the Equinox is the most efficient, at 28 mpg city/39 mpg highway/32 mpg combined. All-wheel drive only impacts highway driving, with estimates coming in at 28/38/32 mpg.
Safety
- Every Equinox is equipped with GM’s OnStar system and a Teen Driver mode that allows limitations to be placed on vehicle operations like top speed and radio volume.
- Standard safety equipment on higher trims like the Premier model include low-speed automatic braking, rear cross-traffic alerts, blind-spot monitors, forward-collision alerts, lane-keep assist and surround-view cameras.
Infotainment
- Chevrolet’s MyLink system is the default infotainment offering and includes a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Bluetooth and 4G LTE hotspot capabilities are also standard in every Equinox.
- Premier trims get an 8-inch touchscreen with SiriusXM and wireless smartphone charging. These models also utilize a second 7-inch touchscreen for vehicle controls.
- Navigation, Bose Premium Audio and HD radio can be added in a “Sun, Sound & Navigation” package that includes a power sunroof.
Comfort & Convenience
- The Equinox is equipped in base form with active noise cancellation, Wi-Fi hotspot, LED running lights and 12-volt outlets in the front, rear and cargo area.
- The range-topping Premier trim steps up to leather upholstery with heated front seats, hands-free liftgate, dual-zone climate controls and remote start capabilities.
- Multiple options are available and grouped into packages that include a Confidence & Convenience I/II (safety features) and Sun, Sound & Navigation.
Editor’s note: All photos courtesy of Chevrolet