Chevrolet introduces 2018 Equinox SUV with turbo diesel option in N. America
23 September 2016
Chevrolet has introduced the all-new 2018 Equinox compact SUV with a choice of three turbocharged engines—including the segment’s first turbo-diesel in North America. The choices are a 1.5L turbo, a 2.0L turbo—matched with GM’s new nine-speed automatic transmission—and a 1.6L turbo-diesel.
The new Equinox is the first Chevrolet model in North America to use an all-turbocharged, multi-engine powertrain lineup. The 2018 Equinox goes on sale in the first quarter of 2017 in North America and rolls out to approximately 115 additional global markets later in the year.
The 1.6L turbo-diesel is an all-new design, with output estimated at 136 hp (101 kW) at 3,500 to 4,000 rpm and 236 lb-ft of torque (320 N·m) at 2,000 rpm. A variable-geometry turbocharger helps generate a broad torque band that makes the engine very responsive at low rpm. It also features stop/start technology and is one of the industry’s most refined diesels.
The 2018 Equinox’s 1.5L turbo offers a GM-estimated 31 mpg highway (FWD). It is GM-estimated at 170 hp (127 kW) and is part of GM’s family of Ecotec small-displacement engines, featuring direct injection. The available 2.0L turbo offers a higher degree of performance, GM-estimated 252 hp (188 kw) and a wide torque band for strong pulling power and acceleration. It also offers a GM-estimated 28 mpg on the highway (FWD).
Ninety percent of the engine’s peak torque is available from 2,000 to 5,600 rpm, along with maximum torque from 2,500 to 4,500 rpm. That strong, sustained torque production helps the new Equinox offer a 3,500-pound (1,585 kg) max trailering capacity that is equal to the current model’s capacity with the available V-6 engine.
9-speed. The all-new 9T50 nine-speed automatic transmission features a higher 7.6:1 overall ratio to enhance efficiency. Smaller steps between the gears (compared to six-speed designs) enhance refinement.
An on-axis design, in which all the gears are in line with the crankshaft, and GM’s first application of a selectable one-way clutch help reduce the package size of the 9T50, making it roughly the same size as a six-speed transmission.
Connectivity. Chevrolet’s latest connectivity technologies are featured, including 7- and 8-inch-diagonal MyLink infotainment systems designed to support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as an available OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility is subject to their terms, privacy statements and data plan rates, as well as a compatible smartphone.)
Safety. The Equinox offers a comprehensive suite of available active safety technologies and adaptive crash-avoidance features that provide ease of use and peace of mind on the road.
Teen Driver is also offered, allowing parents to set controls and review an in-vehicle report card in order to encourage safer driving habits, even when they are not in the vehicle.
Available advanced active safety features to enhance driver awareness on the road include radar- and camera-based adaptive technologies that can provide alerts to potential crash threats, allowing the driver to react and make changes to avoid them, including:
- New Safety Alert Seat
- New Surround Vision
- New Forward Collision Alert with Following Distance Indicator
- New Low-Speed Forward Automatic Braking
- New Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
- New Rear Seat Reminder
- Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Additional vehicle highlights:
Approximately 400 pounds (180 kg) lighter than the current model—a 10 percent weight reduction.
Switchable AWD system that enhances efficiency by disconnecting from the rear axle when not needed.
Unique kneeling rear seat that enables a flat rear load floor and up to 63.5 cubic feet (1,798 liters) of maximum cargo space.
Equinox sales have reached more than 2 million since its launch and it is Chevrolet’s second-best retail selling vehicle, after the Silverado.
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