The new Equinox engine range will consist of a 2.4L four-cylinder and a 3.0L V6. The 2.4L engine delivers an estimated 30mpg in highway driving, placing the Equinox at the top of its segment in highway mileage and GM estimates that consumers who drive the 2.4L-equipped Equinox 15,000 miles per year will save 134 gallons of fuel or about $270 to $400 annually (assuming gas prices of $2 or $3 per gallon as compared to the 2009 model year Equinox).
The new 2.4L direct injection engine delivers an estimated 180hp (134 kW) at 6,700rpm and 172lb-ft of torque (232Nm) at 4,900 rpm. It uses technology based on GM's other four-cylinder direct injection applications, but GM claims that it has unique features designed for its specific application in the Equinox. This includes an 11.4:1 compression ratio that helps build power, slightly dished pistons that increase combustion efficiency and injectors with an application-specific flow rate.
The 3.0L unit with direct injection is rated at an estimated 255hp (187kW) and 214lb-ft of torque (290Nm), more power and torque than Ford's six-cylinder engine found in the Escape.
The Equinox will join a growing roster of direct injected vehicles from GM, including the all-new 2010 Cadillac SRX crossover and 2010 Buick LaCrosse sedan, which, along with the Equinox, debut in January at the Detroit Motor Show.