Holden is introducing a new 1.6-litre turbo-diesel engine option for the recently released Equinox medium-size SUV. The new diesel offering should help to give the model more presence in the demanding segment.
Available in all four variants, the 1.6-litre turbo-diesel motor offers up 100kW and 320Nm. It’s one of the least powerful diesel engines in the class, but with an average fuel consumption rating of 5.6L/100km, it is one of the most economical. All diesel models come with a six-speed automatic transmission and the availability of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
Until now buyers have had to choose between 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engines, which are rated at 6.9L/100km and 8.2L/100km for fuel consumption, respectively. These units produce 127/275Nm and 188kW/353Nm.
Standout features on the Equinox include hands-free power tailgate (LTZ and LTZ-V models only), advanced park assist technology, wireless phone charging, heated and ventilated front seats, and also a segment-first safety alert driver’s seat which gives drivers a small vibration to alert them of potential hazards.
In terms of sales, Holden sold 506 Equinox models for the month of April. This places the medium SUV as the tenth best-selling model behind vehicles such as the top-selling Hyundai Tucson, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, and Kia Sportage. Holden’s executive director of marketing, Kristian Aquilina, said:
“The new 1.6-litre turbo diesel engine boasts leading efficiency while remaining so smooth and refined, you forget you’re driving a diesel. The turbo diesel joins the 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre turbo petrol engines currently sold in the range, meaning we’ve got an Equinox to suit every taste, and with our extended seven-year warranty, now is a great time to buy.”
The 2018 Holden Equinox diesel will be available from showrooms from May 4, with prices starting from the following (excluding on-road costs):
2018 Holden Equinox diesel LS+ – $35,990
2018 Holden Equinox diesel LT – $39,990
2018 Holden Equinox diesel LTZ (AWD) – $47,290
2018 Holden Equinox diesel LTZ-V (AWD) – $49,290
