As fuel prices continue to influence the total cost of vehicle ownership, choosing a compact SUV with better fuel economy can lead to significant long-term savings. The 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer and 2025 Chevrolet Equinox are two of the most popular options in Chevrolet’s lineup, and while they share the same family DNA, they offer very different driving experiences and fuel efficiency ratings.
The Trailblazer is a smaller, more compact SUV designed with versatility and agility in mind. It’s especially well-suited to urban environments and light off-roading in trims like ACTIV. The Equinox, by contrast, is a slightly larger vehicle with a roomier interior and more power, making it an ideal choice for families and those who value comfort and cargo capacity.
This article compares both models in detail and explores their fuel economy over multiple driving distances. We also look at how much you can expect to spend per year on fuel depending on whether you choose front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD).
The 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer is built for buyers who want a compact SUV that’s both affordable and adaptable. Its compact size makes it a great fit for city driving, yet trims like the ACTIV and RS offer rugged capability and bold styling. With standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, a large 11-inch infotainment screen, and available AWD, the Trailblazer balances functionality and technology across all trims.
Under the hood, the Trailblazer features an ECOTEC® 1.3L turbocharged engine, producing 174 lb-ft of torque and offering strong fuel economy across both FWD and AWD versions. With three drive modes and off-road-tuned suspension on ACTIV models, it delivers versatility that goes beyond simple commuting.
Inside, you’ll find fold-flat passenger seating, up to 2.5 metres (8.5 ft.) of cargo length, and an available hands-free liftgate. It’s surprisingly roomy for a small SUV, and Chevrolet Safety Assist comes standard across the lineup, offering advanced active safety features like Lane Keep Assist and Forward Collision Alert.
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox has been fully reimagined with a fresh design, new trims including ACTIV and RS, and a greater focus on driver comfort. It’s larger than the Trailblazer, both in cabin space and road presence, with a refined interior and impressive versatility for family use or extended travel. The 60/40 split-bench rear seats and nearly 1,800 litres of cargo volume mean it’s ready to carry both people and gear with ease.
All trims of the Equinox are powered by a 1.5L turbocharged engine delivering 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. The FWD versions pair this engine with a CVT for optimal efficiency, while AWD trims feature an 8-speed automatic transmission. Its towing capacity of up to 680 kg adds to its functionality.
Inside, the Equinox comes with an 11.3-inch infotainment screen and offers Google built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, plus available features like a Bose audio system and AutoSense Power Liftgate. It’s a well-rounded vehicle built for those who want more refinement in a compact footprint.
To help understand how each model affects your fuel budget, we calculated fuel costs using the official combined fuel economy numbers based on a 55% city / 45% highway driving mix. At a fuel price of $1.75 per litre, the following table shows estimated annual fuel costs based on five different driving distances.
|
Distance (km) |
Trailblazer FWD (L/100km) |
Trailblazer AWD (L/100km) |
Equinox FWD (L/100km) |
Equinox AWD (L/100km) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
10,000 |
$1,358.00 |
$1,513.75 |
$1,538.25 |
$1,608.25 |
|
15,000 |
$2,037.00 |
$2,270.62 |
$2,307.38 |
$2,412.38 |
|
20,000 |
$2,716.00 |
$3,027.50 |
$3,076.50 |
$3,216.50 |
|
25,000 |
$3,395.00 |
$3,784.38 |
$3,845.62 |
$4,020.62 |
|
30,000 |
$4,074.00 |
$4,541.25 |
$4,614.75 |
$4,824.75 |
|
Difference (Equinox AWD vs Trailblazer FWD) |
— |
— |
— |
$1,066.75 |
|
Average Annual Fuel Cost |
$2,716.00 |
$3,027.50 |
$3,076.50 |
$3,216.50 |
Fuel cost differences between the two models are significant over time, especially at higher annual distances. The most efficient version is the Trailblazer FWD, averaging $2,716 per year in fuel at 20,000 km. On the other end of the scale, the Equinox AWD costs $3,216 per year on average, a difference of $500 annually—or over $2,500 across five years.
The Equinox FWD provides better interior space and capability, but it does so at a cost of roughly $360 more per year compared to the Trailblazer FWD. Meanwhile, AWD versions of both models show a consistent pattern of higher consumption, which is expected but should be factored into your decision if you don’t need AWD year-round.
The difference between the least efficient (Equinox AWD) and most efficient (Trailblazer FWD) trims reaches over $1,000 per year at 30,000 km. That cost can be more significant than optional features or packages when assessing overall value.
The 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer and Equinox each serve distinct buyer needs. The Trailblazer is better suited for drivers who prioritize value, fuel efficiency, and city-friendly dimensions. The Equinox, on the other hand, offers more power, space, and comfort—ideal for families or those who need more interior flexibility and long-distance refinement.
If your driving involves long commutes or higher annual mileage, the Trailblazer FWD offers the lowest fuel costs. However, if interior space and towing capability are higher priorities, the Equinox may justify its added operating costs. In the end, choosing between these two comes down to your personal priorities—size, efficiency, or long-distance comfort.
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