We took in the saner sights around Ann Arbor, Michigan driving the new 2018 Chevrolet Equinox compact utility with the addition of a 1.6-liter turbo-diesel attached, to a 6-speed automatic transmission. 

While the 1.6 turbo-diesel is already available in the Chevy Cruze compact, on our day long drive, it seemed like an altogether different engine combining good strength with ultra-quiet operation like no other domestic brand’s diesel application to date.

There is good punch off the line before the Equinox diesel settles into a steady if not overly rapid pace. With 137-horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, there is enough power in reserve for passing without the driver starting to sweat. More importantly, the Equinox diesel with front-wheel drive has an EPA rating of 39 miles-per-gallon Highway, the highest of any utility in its class.

All-wheel drive is available.

The 2018 Chevrolet Equinox Diesel starts at under $31,000, and it’s in dealerships now. 

Specifications

  • Engine: 1.6 turbo-diesel
  • Horsepower: 137
  • Price: Starts under $31,000