We had the opportunity to drive an Equinox FWD Premier with the base 1.5-liter turbo-four, and the new 2.0T AWD model back to back.
NASHVILLE, Tennessee — We are driving the all-new 2018 Chevrolet Equinox AWD Premier 2.0T AWD on the super smooth Natchez Trace Parkway. This road is perfect for the compact crossover and makes us appreciate the sedate, friendly ride and comfortably capable handling.
2018 Chevrolet Equinox 2.0T AWD Premier and 1.5T FWD Premier
The 2.0T designates the third-generation Equinox’s new optional engine, a 2.0-liter turbo-four that makes 252 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. But before catching our flight to the Music City, we had the opportunity to drive an Equinox FWD Premier with the base 1.5-liter turbo-four, an engine good for 170 hp and 203 lb-ft of torque.
Mated to a six-speed automatic, it will get to 60 mph in an eventual 9.2 seconds. Gas misers will be happy to know that the six-speed is tuned with fuel economy in mind and it upshifts to its highest gear regularly. Back home in Los Angeles, it did the job comfortably during rush hour traffic and around town hauling groceries.
The 2.0-liter is considerably quicker, getting the Equinox to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds. It was noticeably quicker than the 1.5T on the backroads of Tennessee, displaying decent passing power. Pound the accelerator hard enough and its nine-speed automatic will skip a few gears to help get you down the road. The first five ratios are close together and the powertrain gets the job done with minimal lag, at least with two adults and no cargo in the SUV. The bigger engine can also tow up to 3,500 pounds, according to the latest Chevy spec sheets.
Looking for a 2018 Chevrolet Equinox 2.0T AWD Premier and 1.5T FWD Premier? Visit Ron Westphal Chevy in Aurora, IL or view us online at www.WestphalChevy.com. Call our Customer care team at 630-898-9630 to set up your VIP test drive.
Read more at the Source: Back to Back: 2018 Chevrolet Equinox 2.0T AWD Premier and 1.5T FWD Premier | Automobile Magazine