Whether you're shopping for or have already purchased a Chevy Equinox, understanding how many cylinders it has in the engine isn't just for kicks: it will really matter. Knowing how many cylinders your SUV has affects your driving experience, fuel economy, and any potential repair costs. The number of cylinders in an engine plays a critical role in figuring out how much power that vehicle is able to generate and how efficiently it burns its fuel. Purchasing a used Equinox, or just wanting to know more about what you're currently driving? Knowing what number of cylinders your Equinox has helps for knowing what actions you'll take regarding maintenance, performance, and fuel.
Chevy Equinox Cylinder Options
Chevy Equinox is typically either a 4 or 6-cylinder vehicle depending on the model year and trim. The pre-2018 models offered both 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder options, however, newer models typically offer only a turbo charged 4-cylinder engine. This was done to improve fuel economy for drivers, and to stay within the recent CO2 emissions rules while trying not to sacrifice performance too much for drivers. If you happen to own one of the newer Equinox SUVs, it's highly likely that you have a turbo charged 4-cylinder under the hood, and not a 6-cylinder.
Chevy Equinox Engine Options by Model Year
Here's a quick summary of Equinox engine types by year:
- 2010-2017: Available with both 2.4L 4-cylinder and 3.6L V6 engines.
- 2018-2020: Switched to a 1.5L turbo 4-cylinder and available 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder. No V6 engine.
- 2021-2025: Most trims are only offered with 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. No V6.
Prior trim levels, such as LT and Premier, offered engine options with more power than the current lame engine offerings. Even base trims today have slightly more efficient engines, just fewer engine options.
4-Cylinder vs 6-Cylinder – Performance Comparison
A 4-cylinder Equinox will usually have better gas mileage and less weight, so it is better for daily commuting and city driving. You will get great acceleration, but not extreme power. In comparison, a 6-cylinder Equinox (which is only available in year models before 2018) will have stronger acceleration, better towing, and an overall better highway driving experience. It will also have better experiences in hilly terrain and if you carry heavy loads on a regular basis. The flip side is that it will consume more fuel, so you have to be mindful of that. Overall, most casual Equinox drivers will hardly miss the 6-cylinder engines of the past, as turbocharged 4-cylinder engines are in all Equinoxes since 2018.
Turbocharged 4-Cylinder Explained
Chevy replaced the traditional V6 starter engines with turbocharged 4-cylinder engines beginning in 2018. The turbo-charged engine employs direct gasoline injection forced air induction that not only have less displacement but produce more power. A complimentary 2.0L turbo motor in the 2018 Premier trim model, almost produced the same horsepower values as the traditional V6 version that preceded it, albeit with better fuel efficiency. Four-cylinder turbo engines will also reduce the vehicle's weight and emissions. Therefore, SUV's equipped with this motivated engine will be lighter, better for the environment, as well as making haste.
What Equinox trim levels will deliver more power?
Cycles with more performance will be the trim levels that offered the 2.0L turbocharged engines, such as the Premier or LT trim from 2018-2020 with optional upgrades. Alternatively, the older trim levels such as the 2017 Premier V6 or 2016 LTZ may be acceptable options as performance models. Lastly, if you look at the models base trims newer than 2018 the standard engine is the 1.5L turbo engine. The fuel efficiency is amazing, but it doesn't build power like the other motors. I recommend that you confirm the trim and engine spec breakdown when purchasing a used Equinox to check for performance-related features.
Engine Cylinders & Fuel Efficiency in the Equinox
Fuel efficiency is one of the main benefits of a 4-cylinder engine. The 1.5L Turbo 4-cylinder in some of the more recent Equinox models has a highway rating of up to 31 MPG, while the older V6 models had a highway rating in the mid-20’s. While ​6-cylinders offer more power, it came at the cost of mileage and emissions. The change in powertrain to smaller turbocharged engines came in response to higher fuel prices and stricter environmental standards. The Equinox allows the driver to be more economically and environmentally friendly.
Common Misconceptions about Equinox Engine Types
Many people still believe that bigger SUVs like the Equinox always have a V6 option when this simply isn’t true. Since 2018, Chevy has pretty much made it a point to put a turbocharged 4-cylinder in every model. Another misconception is that 4-cylinder engines are underpowered. In fact, the 4-cylinder turbo can have a pretty impressive amount of torque and response. Another major misconception is thinking that all trims are identical. Engine specs can vary between models even in the same model year. It is always best to verify engine specs using the VIN or owner’s manual.
How to Check Your Chevy Equinox Engine Type
Not sure what engine your Equinox has? Here’s how to find out:
- Check your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). The 8th digit usually indicates engine type.
- Owner’s manual or manufacturer sticker under the hood provides exact engine specs.
- Use online VIN decoders like Chevy’s official site or vehicle history tools.
- Some apps (like MyChevrolet) can show engine details if connected to your vehicle.
Knowing your engine type is important for maintenance, oil type, and resale value.
