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2018 Chevrolet Equinox: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for 2018 is a complete redesign that launches the third-generation Chevrolet Equinox. It has a smaller, much lighter structure and a more modern cabin than the 2017 model.
About the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox
3rd generation, first year (2018-2021 before the 2022 styling update).
Chevrolet positions the 2018 Equinox as a compact five-passenger SUV that balances style, everyday efficiency, easy-to-use tech, and family practicality. The core pitch is simple: a right-sized crossover for commuting, errands, and weekend trips, with a quiet cabin, flexible cargo space, smartphone-friendly infotainment, and available all-weather traction. Compared with many rivals, Chevrolet leans hard on the Equinox’s approachable technology, turbo efficiency, and polished ride rather than an overtly sporty personality.
Chevrolet positions the L and LS as straightforward versions with a 7-inch touchscreen, smartphone integration, keyless start, and Rear Seat Reminder. The better-equipped LT spans 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter gas engines plus a 1.6-liter diesel, while Premier adds leather, an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, LED lighting, and a hands-free liftgate.
What changed, by category
Structural
A new third-generation platform makes the Equinox smaller and cuts roughly 400 pounds compared with the previous model.
Powertrain
The lineup switches to turbocharged four-cylinder engines. A 1.5-liter turbo is standard, a stronger 2.0-liter turbo joins the range, and a new 1.6-liter diesel is added to LT and Premier. AWD-equipped models use a new switchable system that disconnects the rear axle when extra traction is not needed.
Styling
The exterior and cabin are fully redesigned as part of the move to the third-generation Equinox.
Safety
Teen Driver and Rear Seat Reminder are introduced, along with a broader range of driver aids. Blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and park assist become standard on Premier.
Tech
New 7- and 8-inch touchscreen systems bring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Premier also adds wireless phone charging.
2018 Chevrolet Equinox specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.5 Liter / 4-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 1.6 Liter / 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.5 Liter / 4-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 1.6 Liter / 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 9-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 9-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas / Diesel | Gas / Diesel |
| MPG City | 26 mpg | 26 mpg | 22–28 mpg | 22–28 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 32 mpg | 32 mpg | 29–39 mpg | 29–39 mpg |
| Horsepower | 170 hp | 170 hp | 137–252 hp | 137–252 hp |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft | 203–260 lb-ft | 203–260 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3500 lb | 3500 lb | 3500 lb | 3500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 63.5 cu-ft | 63.5 cu-ft | 63.5 cu-ft | 63.5 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 39.7 in | 39.7 in | 39.7 in | 39.7 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic High Beams | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Park Assist | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| 360 Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| HID Headlights | ||||
| LED Headlights | ||||
| LED Tail Lights | ||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Power Close Liftgate/Trunk | ||||
| Privacy Glass | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Side Steps | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox a full redesign?
Yes. The 2018 Chevrolet Equinox starts the third generation with a new platform, a smaller body, roughly 400 pounds less weight, a redesigned cabin, and an entirely turbocharged engine lineup.
What engines does the redesigned 2018 Chevrolet Equinox have?
The 2018 Equinox uses turbocharged four-cylinder engines throughout the lineup. The 1.5-liter turbo is standard, the stronger 2.0-liter turbo appears in higher trims, and a new 1.6-liter diesel is offered in LT and Premier models.
Does the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. Every 2018 Equinox trim has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto through a touchscreen system. L, LS, and LT use a 7-inch screen, while Premier has an 8-inch screen.
What safety features were added to the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox?
The redesigned 2018 Equinox adds Teen Driver and Rear Seat Reminder, along with a broader range of driver-assistance features. Premier makes blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and park assist standard.
How does AWD work in the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox?
AWD-equipped 2018 Equinox models use a switchable system. It can disconnect the rear axle when extra traction is not needed, which reduces unnecessary drag during normal driving.
2018 Chevrolet Equinox Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox.
4.1
2018 Chevrolet Equinox
(1,380 reviews)
“The Chevrolet Equinox is a great “mom car". It will fit a growing family while not feeling like a van. It has great gas mileage and good pick up and go. It looks good while performing even better.”
“The Equinox feels incredibly safe and it is super reliable. The storage area in the back is large enough for just about anything and it gets great gas mileage.”