GM cuts Equinox, Terrain diesel engines
Thanks to the misdeeds of a few automakers, diesel-powered engines are now enjoying the popularity of toothpaste-flavoured ice cream.
The exceptions are pickup trucks, because prodigious oil-burning torque remains the choice for getting work done. In the mainstream, however, it’s definitely fading from public consciousness.
Chevy will not be renewing the diesel engine option in the Equinox crossover for the 2020 model year.
Gearheads at The Car Connection were told by Chevy that the engine won’t return because of low demand. In addition to binning the 1.6-litre turbodiesel for 2020, the trim levels of 3LT and 3LZ will also vanish.
The usual colour-naming dance is also being performed, with some shades, such as Orange Burst being swapped out for Cayenne Orange. A fresh Midnight Edition removes all the chrome, while content that was once part of a Driver Confidence Plus package is now standard equipment.
The GMC sales staff across the showroom also have one fewer diesel engine in their catalogue as well. The 2020 fleet guide spells out deletions for the GMC Terrain, erasures that include the turbodiesel. Minor trim and equipment changes are also on tap for the upcoming model year. These changes are reflected on the American fleet guide as well.
The diesel was available in these crossovers for a couple of years, producing only 137 horsepower but a healthy 240 pound-feet of torque.