2018 Chevy Equinox 2.0T Pricing Will Start From $30,040

The all-new 2018 Equinox has been on sale for several months, but thus far shoppers have only been able to buy the entry-level 1.5T model. A more powerful 2.0T engine and segment-first diesel have been on tap for delayed release.

Order guides reveal the new 2.0T Equinox has been priced from $30,040, or $2,395 more than the base engine. However, there's actually a quirk that will result in one version being $4,340 more expensive than the same vehicle with the 1.5T.

So what will pricing look like? Why is one version so much more expensive than the 1.5T? And will this end up being the most expensive vehicle in the segment?

Here's what you need to know.

2.0T Pricing, With A Quirk

Based on recent order guides, the 2.0T Equinox LT will start at $30,040, or $2,395 more than the $27,645 MSRP of the same trim with the 1.5T. The price factors a destination charge of $895.

Although that's technically $5,565 more than the entry-level Equinox L, that trim mainly exists for advertising purposes, is rarely stocked and is excluded from most promotions and isn't really a fair comparison.

The new 2.0T Equinox Premier will start at $34,480, or $2,795 more than the 1.5T. Opting for all-wheel drive adds $3,645 for a range-topping price of $38,125.

That all seems straightforward, but we found a quirk in the middle of the range.

For some reason, GM has opted to bundle the all-wheel drive version of the 2.0T Equinox LT with equipment that's optional on the same vehicle with the 1.5T. At $33,735, it will be $4,340 more expensive.

The reason for the big difference in price stems from the fact that GM has decided to bundle that configuration with the Driver Confidence and Convenience Packages. This was confirmed for CarsDirect today by GM spokesperson Tara Kuhnen.

The Confidence Package adds a blind spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors, etc. The Convenience Package adds dual-zone climate, leather steering wheel, a power liftgate, remote start, heated front seats and more.

Although these are attractive safety and convenience features, shoppers considering the 2.0T with all-wheel drive should be aware of the difference in price when considering the LT.

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Our Take

With the addition of the 2.0T Equinox, shoppers will get a more powerful alternative that's more efficient than the outgoing generation's V6. It also features 3,500 lbs of towing capacity, compared to 1,500 lbs with a 2017 Honda CR-V.

However, at $30,040, the vehicle starts quite a bit higher than the $27,490 MSRP of a 2017 Ford Escape with its optional 245 hp 2.0T engine. Both vehicles arguably boast similar output and are probably a better comparison.

At the top end, the Premier's price of $38,125 is considerably higher than the $33,240 MSRP of an Escape Titanium 2.0T 4x4. Close in terms of price is the 2017 Toyota RAV4 Platinum, which hits $37,110 when opting for all-wheel drive.

Will the 2.0T Equinox be the most expensive vehicle in its segment? That appears to be shaping up to be the case. That said, there are differences in equipment between brands and shoppers should study specs carefully.

Despite its hefty premium, it's important to note that the Equinox tends to feature attractive cashback offers and lease incentives. We suspect GM will need to continue such tactics to bring the vehicle closer in line with competitors

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