Chevrolet Equinox AWD vs FWD
Chevrolet Equinox · AWD vs FWD · 2027
Equinox AWD vs FWD: is all-wheel drive worth $2,000?
For 2027, FWD and AWD Equinox models share the same 8-speed and tow rating. Here's what AWD costs, what it gets you, and who needs it in Barron County.
Short answer
AWD for winter, FWD to save
Side by side
2027 Equinox FWD vs AWD
| FWD | AWD | |
|---|---|---|
| Price difference | – | +$2,000 |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| EPA mpg (city/hwy/comb) | 25/29/27 | 25/29/26 |
| Fuel tank | About 14.8 gal | About 15.6 gal |
| Max towing | 1,500 lb | 1,500 lb |
| Available trims | LT, RS, ACTIV | LT, RS, ACTIV |
EPA; GM order guide; Chevrolet; tank sizes approximate from published spec data.[1][2][3]
Up north
Who needs AWD around Barron
Get AWD
Rural roads, a long gravel driveway, hills, early shifts before the plows, or trips up to the cabin.
FWD is fine
Town driving and plowed highways, with a set of winter tires. Put the $2,000 toward the tires.
Either way
AWD helps you go; it doesn't help you stop or turn. Tires do that.
The numbers
What AWD adds: price, transmission, MPG, modes
| FWD | AWD | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Base | +$2,000 |
| Transmission | CVT (2025–26) / 8-speed (2027) | 8-speed |
| EPA combined (2027) | 27 mpg | 26 mpg |
| Drive modes | Normal, Snow | Adds Off-Road |
| Towing | Up to 1,500 lb (2027) | Up to 1,500 lb |
Figures checked on chevrolet.com/suvs/equinox October 31, 2026 (2027 model year: LT from $29,300, $29,300–$36,200 starting range, 175 hp / 203 lb-ft, up to 1,500 lb, 63.5 cu ft). Package prices from GM 2027 pricing via GM Authority (June 2026). Prices exclude destination and are subject to change. The exact price is on the window sticker — ask us for an out-the-door quote.
Frequently asked questions
How much does AWD add to an Equinox?
$2,000 on every trim per GM 2027 pricing (Chevrolet.com's $29,300 to $36,200 starting range reflects it). It costs about 1 mpg combined on the EPA label.
What is the real-world MPG for an AWD Equinox?
EPA rates the 2027 AWD Equinox 25 city / 29 highway / 26 combined (FWD 27 combined). Barron-area owners usually see mid-20s in winter with remote-start idling and winter tires, and close to the highway number on summer trips.
Does the Equinox have drive modes?
Yes. A Drive Mode Selector is standard. Chevrolet lists Normal and Snow modes, with an Off-Road mode added on AWD models; confirm the list in the owner's manual for the model year.
What engine and transmission does the Equinox have?
Every Equinox uses a 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder, 175 hp and 203 lb-ft. 2025-2026 FWD models use a CVT and AWD models an 8-speed automatic; for 2027 every Equinox, FWD or AWD, uses the 8-speed automatic.
Is AWD worth it on an Equinox?
In northwest Wisconsin, for most people, yes. It adds $2,000, costs about 1 mpg combined, and helps on unplowed side roads, slushy hills and gravel. Good winter tires matter just as much.
Does the AWD Equinox get worse gas mileage?
Slightly. EPA rates the 2027 FWD at 25/29/27 and the AWD at 25/29/26 mpg (city/highway/combined).
Is the FWD Equinox still a CVT?
Not on 2027. Every 2027 Equinox uses the 8-speed automatic. 2025 and 2026 FWD models used a CVT.
Do FWD and AWD tow the same?
On 2027, yes: 1,500 lb either way. On 2026, FWD was 800 lb and AWD 1,500 lb.
Can I get any trim in AWD?
Yes. LT, RS and ACTIV all come in FWD or AWD.
Chevrolet store
Talk with an Equinox specialist in Barron
Ask us which drivetrain fits your commute and your driveway. Call ahead and we will have the vehicle pulled up, warmed up and priced out the door.
Swant Graber Motors
Chevrolet · Dodge · Ram
1690 East Division Avenue, Barron, WI 54812
715-537-5657
More Equinox guides
- Chevrolet Equinox Buyer's Guide (2026–2027)
- 2026 vs 2027 Equinox: what changed
- Equinox LT vs RS vs ACTIV
- Equinox Convenience II, III and Safety and Technology packages
- Equinox colors and black or white roofs
- Equinox Midnight Edition and wheel packages
- Equinox towing and trailer hitch
- How to order an Equinox from Swant Graber
- Equinox specs, dimensions and cargo space
- Equinox reliability and warranty
- Equinox vs Trax, Trailblazer and Traverse
- Equinox features and tech you should know
- Equinox accessories and prices
- Used Equinox by year
- Buying an Equinox in Barron
- Shop new Equinox in Barron
Pick FWD or AWD
Shop Equinox in stock, or order it with the drivetrain you want. We work with national and local lenders.
Sources
- U.S. EPA, 2027 Chevrolet Equinox fuel economy: fueleconomy.gov
- GM, 2027 Chevrolet Equinox order guide (published March 20, 2026); public copy: autoevolution.com
- Chevrolet, 2027 Equinox prices, 183.2" length, 63.5 cu ft cargo, 3,428–3,629 lb weight, 175 hp / 203 lb-ft: chevrolet.com
Updated October 30, 2026. Specs, package content and prices are subject to change by Chevrolet. The window sticker and door-jamb labels on the vehicle are final. Not affiliated with or endorsed by General Motors.