Chevrolet recently invited the media to drive in its new 2018 Chevrolet Equinox compact utility with the 1.6-liter turbo-diesel attached to a 6-speed automatic transmission. While the 1.6 turbo-diesel is already available in the Chevy Cruze compact sedan, on our day long drive, it seemed like an altogether different engine combining good strength with ultra-quiet operation like no other domestic brand’s diesel application to date. There is good punch off the line before the Equinox diesel settles into a steady if not overly rapid pace.  With 137-horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, there is enough power in reserve for passing without the driver starting to sweat. More importantly, the Equinox diesel with front-wheel drive has an EPA rating of 39 MPG Highway, the highest of any utility in its class. All-wheel drive is available.