The Chevrolet Equinox III, produced from 2017 to 2021, represented a significant step forward for Chevrolet’s popular compact SUV. Within the Equinox III range, the 1.5i (173 Hp) AWD Automatic variant occupied a crucial mid-range position, offering a balance of fuel efficiency, capability, and features aimed at families and everyday drivers. This model was a key component of Chevrolet’s strategy to compete in the increasingly crowded crossover segment, offering an alternative to both front-wheel-drive base models and the more powerful 2.0L turbocharged options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Equinox |
| Generation | Equinox III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5i (173 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 173 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 116.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 275 Nm @ 2500-4500 rpm (202.83 lb.-ft. @ 2500-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LYX |
| Engine displacement | 1490 cm3 (90.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74 mm (2.91 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.6 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC-CVVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1606 kg (3540.62 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 847 l (29.91 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1798 l (63.5 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 59 l (15.59 US gal | 12.98 UK gal) |
| Length | 4651 mm (183.11 in.) |
| Width | 1844 mm (72.6 in.) |
| Height | 1661 mm (65.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2725 mm (107.28 in.) |
| Front track | 1580 mm (62.2 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1580 mm (62.2 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Equinox III 1.5i AWD Automatic is the GM LYX 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes direct injection and a variable valve timing system (DOHC-CVVT) to optimize both power and fuel efficiency. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, helps to mitigate turbo lag and provide a relatively broad torque curve. The engine produces 173 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 275 lb-ft of torque between 2500 and 4500 rpm. This engine is longitudinally mounted, a configuration common in vehicles designed for all-wheel drive. The transmission is a six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic, known for its smooth shifting and reliability. This particular transmission was chosen for its ability to handle the engine’s torque output while maintaining acceptable fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5L turbo engine, paired with the six-speed automatic, delivers adequate performance for most daily driving situations. Acceleration is respectable, though not particularly sporty. The automatic transmission is programmed for comfort and efficiency, with gear changes generally smooth and unobtrusive. Compared to the available 2.0L turbo engine, the 1.5L offers less outright power, resulting in slower acceleration times. However, the 1.5L’s lighter weight and more relaxed power delivery make it feel more manageable in city driving. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in inclement weather, making it a practical choice for regions with snow or rain. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy, meaning the engine may feel slightly strained when climbing hills or during aggressive acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5i AWD Automatic trim typically included standard features such as Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and keyless entry. Higher trim levels, such as the LT and Premier, added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power liftgate, and advanced safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Interior upholstery in the base trims was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials available. Dashboard configurations were consistent across the range, featuring a straightforward layout with easy-to-use controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Equinox III utilizes a unibody construction for improved rigidity and crash safety. The front suspension features an independent McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employs an independent multi-link setup. This suspension configuration provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The vehicle is equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) as standard. The all-wheel-drive system automatically distributes torque between the front and rear axles as needed, enhancing stability and traction.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Equinox III 1.5i AWD Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and user-friendly technology. Fuel economy was also a strong point, with EPA estimates placing it around 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. Compared to the 1.5L front-wheel-drive model, the AWD version offered improved traction and all-weather capability, albeit with a slight decrease in fuel economy. The 2.0L turbo engine provided significantly more power, but at a higher price point and with slightly lower fuel efficiency. Reliability reports for the LYX engine have been generally positive, though some owners have reported minor issues with the turbocharger and fuel injectors.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Equinox III 1.5i AWD Automatic remains a popular choice in the used car market. Its combination of practicality, fuel efficiency, and available features makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The LYX engine, while not known for being exceptionally powerful, has proven to be relatively durable and reliable with proper maintenance. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, spark plug replacements, and inspection of the turbocharger and cooling system. The six-speed Hydra-Matic transmission is also generally reliable, but fluid changes should be performed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. As a mid-range trim, the 1.5i AWD Automatic offers a good balance of value and features, making it a well-rounded and practical compact SUV.
