[EquinoxFF1063]

I understand this option is available when ordered with FE9 emissions, Is it just a modified LEA ?
Is it preferable over the standard 2.4 LA Gas ?

 

[jcarm75]

It would be a modified I4 engine to be able to handle the higher ethanol content. Backed by GM.
Here is an article on E85. http://www.cars.com/go/advice/Story.jsp?section=fuel&subject=fuelAlt&story=e85

How many ethanol stations do you have around you? Check http://neare85.com/ I only have one and it is in Salton City, CA over 60 miles away.

Quick summary.
"......
PROS
+ Renewable fuel
+ Uses up to 85 percent less imported petroleum
+ Less money goes overseas
+ You don't have to pay a premium for a flexible-fuel model

CONS
- Gets fewer miles per gallon than regular gas
- Environmental benefits unclear
- Possible effects on global food supply
.....
E85 - 85% Ethanol and 15% Gasoline"

As for your original question.
Yes modified, regular gas vehicles can also be converted, cost extra though.
Is it preferable? Not to me, if you live in a large metro area with E85 and it cost much less than regular gas, than it might be to you.
The problem that comes into play with Flexfuel vehicles is fewer MPG and the additional initial cost of being a FlexFuel vehicle. When does it even out where you are actually saving money when compared to using regular fuel? Someone here has posted some calculations to answer that question.

 

[Mochaman]

It is a LEA engine(flex fuel) and has some differences 11.2 compression vs 11.4 for LAF. They way things are going flex fuel may end up being cheaper than gas so even though it was not a deal maker I am glad to have it. Looks like the LAF will be a 2 year wonder (and some '11 owners issues may be why).

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GM_Family_II_engine

 

[EquinoxFF1063]

I have the (LEA) 2.4L DOHC 4-cylinder SIDI, but is not Flex Fuel E85 capable. I assumed it was standard as it appeared on the website as "STD I4 Gas/Ethanol"
I would have preferred the option, I did not think it was something that the dealer had to order, live and learn I guess. GM told me they would expedite correction
of the website. I was wondering what the E85 option does for the engine, same HP and Torque ? Good info and links above, as E85 has 27% less energy,
and lower MPG, power? I wonder if I would ever have really used E85. Too late for me anyway.

 

[dwendt44]

The main differences with the E85 engine are hoses and seals, and the computer that will/would adjust the ignition and injection timing when it senses the E85 or a mixture of regular and E85.

Most of the mechanical parts are the same.

GM had two, maybe three, 2.4L engines in production at one time. They apparently dropped the 'old' Nox/Terrain version for one of the other(s).


My 2¢

 

[Deangmc]

So I have the flex fuel but I use a higher grade gasoline. Should I be using something else?