Whether you're comparing it with previous Equinox models or sizing it up against rivals like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, or Hyundai Tucson, the 2026 Equinox delivers meaningful advances. This article walks through what’s new or improved, where it still lags, what buyers should plan for or avoid, and how it stacks up in its class.
What’s New & What’s Better in 2026
Even though the 2025 Equinox was a full redesign, the 2026 model adds enough upgrades to make it worth a second look. These improvements enhance safety, usability, and tech—especially in trims that previously lacked certain features. Key upgrades include:
- Drive Mode Selector becomes standard on all trims. Previously, this was only available on certain higher or specialty trims (RS, ACTIV). Now even the base LT trim gets this added control over driving dynamics. (Edmunds)
- New safety technologies are now standard or improved. Two of the most important additions: intersection automatic emergency braking and upgraded adaptive cruise control with lane-centering. These help prevent collisions in complex traffic situations. (Felix Chevrolet)
- Tech upgrades: The Equinox continues to include an 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and an 11-inch digital driver information cluster. The inclusion of Google Built-In services across trims adds connectivity without needing aftermarket workarounds. (Chevrolet)
- Interior comfort and material upgrades: Seating surfaces have been improved in premium trims (Evotex, sueded microfiber in ACTIV) and styling (stitching, two-tone roof options, more refined finishes). Even driver/passenger touches like center console redesigns and hidden storage improve usability. (Chevrolet)
Performance, Efficiency & Capability
When comparing what’s new versus what stayed the same, it’s helpful to see where Equinox advances and where conservatism remains.
- The engine: 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, producing 175 horsepower and about 203 lb-ft of torque. This is consistent across trims. (svggm.com)
- Transmissions: Front-wheel drive (FWD) versions use a continuously variable transmission (CVT); all-wheel drive (AWD) versions use an 8-speed automatic. (svggm.com)
- Fuel economy: The Equinox is rated at virtually the same MPG as 2025—around 26 city / 31 highway (these numbers can vary slightly by drivetrain). (Felix Chevrolet)
- Capability: Towing capacity is up to 1,500 lbs when properly equipped. AWD is available. (Kbb.com)
So, in performance/efficiency terms, 2026 builds modestly but usefully upon 2025 rather than revolutionizing.
How It Compares to Competitors & Past Models
To understand the upgrade in context, let’s see how the 2026 Equinox holds up against its immediate predecessor and against similar SUVs.
Versus 2025 Equinox
- Safety additions as noted above (intersection emergency braking, lane-centering cruise control) are new. (Felix Chevrolet)
- Feature standardization: things like drive mode selector moved from optional to standard. (Edmunds)
- Fuel economy, cargo/size remain much the same: both offer about 29.8 cubic feet behind rear seats, 63.5 cubic feet with rear seats folded. (Kbb.com)
Versus Rivals (Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson)
- Horsepower: Honda CR-V gas variants reach up to about 190 hp, Toyota RAV4 hybrids push beyond that (often over 220 hp) vs. Equinox’s 175 hp. (zanesvillehonda.com)
- Fuel efficiency: The RAV4 and CR-V (especially hybrids) tend to beat the Equinox in highway and combined MPG. For instance, the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid manages about 38 combined MPG, while the Equinox stays in the mid-20s combined for gas versions. (AP News)
- Cargo and passenger space: Equinox is competitive, though some rivals have slight edges in rear legroom or folded cargo space. E.g., Honda CR-V offers more maximum cargo (~76.5 cu ft) vs. Equinox’s ~63.5 cu ft. (zanesvillehonda.com)
Things to Plan For & Common Mistakes
If you’re considering upgrading to a 2026 Equinox (or buying new), here are planning tips and mistakes to avoid:
- Trim choice matters: ACTIV and RS trims add rugged styling or sporty features, but these may come with trade-offs (e.g. weight, wheel size, ride comfort). If you want efficiency and smooth ride, sticking with LT might make more sense.
- Consider drivetrain carefully: AWD adds capability but impacts fuel economy and maintenance. If you live in mild climates or mostly drive on highways, FWD models may serve you well.
- Don’t overvalue horsepower alone: While 175 hp is adequate for most daily driving, competitors with hybrid powertrains will outperform Equinox in acceleration and in fuel economy. If those are priorities, compare hybrid or electric offerings.
- Watch for tech feature gaps: Equinox is adding more to standard features, but rivals might still offer features earlier (in lower trims) or more advanced driver assistance tech. Read the full feature list.
- Resale and warranties: Understand warranty coverage, reliability data, and resale prospects. Sometimes, vehicles with hybrid or electric systems may have different long-term maintenance profiles.
Quotes & Expert Opinions
“The 2026 Equinox upped its game with sharper styling and tons of standard driver assist features.” — Edmunds (Edmunds)
“The only meaningful change is a drive mode selector that’s now standard on every trim.” — Edmunds in reviewing what’s new versus the 2025 model. (Edmunds)
These reflect consensus that the 2026 version’s improvements are significant largely in standardization, safety, and tech rather than power or major mechanical change.
What to Consider Before You Decide
- What are your priority features: safety, fuel economy, ride comfort, off-road style, or performance? Equinox leans toward safety and tech for 2026.
- Where and how you drive: city traffic, highways, snow, etc. If road grip or winter driving is important, AWD may be worth it.
- Competitors’ hybrid / electric options: if you want higher MPG or emissions advantages, some rivals may outshine the gas-only Equinox in those respects.
- Long-term cost of ownership: insurance, maintenance (especially for AWD or larger wheels), fuel costs.
- Timing: sometimes dealers offer incentives for outgoing stock; 2026 being close to a redesign (though 2025 was redesign year) means some older models might be available with deals.
Conclusion
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox isn’t a completely new vehicle compared to its 2025 version—but the upgrades it brings are meaningful. By making drive mode selection standard, bolstering safety with intersection emergency braking and lane-centering adaptive cruise control, refining the interior and tech, and maintaining the solid performance and cargo capacities of the 2025 redesign, Chevrolet makes sure the Equinox remains competitive. For buyers who care most about tech and safety, yet want a practical compact SUV, this year’s model offers more without sacrificing what works.
If you prioritize fuel efficiency, higher horsepower, or hybrid/electric powertrains, rivals like the CR-V, RAV4, or Tucson are worth comparing. But for someone wanting good balance—modern safety & infotainment, enough power for daily driving, versatility—the 2026 Equinox is a strong contender.
FAQs
Q: Is there a hybrid version of the 2026 Equinox?
A: No. The 2026 Equinox remains with a gas-powered 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine across all trims. Some of its competitors offer hybrids. (bomninchevrolethomestead.com)
Q: What is the towing capacity of the 2026 Equinox?
A: Properly equipped, the Equinox can tow up to 1,500 pounds. (Kbb.com)
Q: Has fuel economy improved from 2025 to 2026?
A: Not significantly. The MPG figures remain very similar to the 2025 model—mid-20s combined for city/highway in gas models. (Felix Chevrolet)
Q: What tech features are now standard that weren’t before?
A: Drive mode selector is now standard across all trims. Safety upgrades like intersection automatic emergency braking and improved adaptive cruise control with lane-centering are also newer additions. (Felix Chevrolet)
Q: How does interior space compare to competitors like the CR-V or RAV4?
A: Equinox offers decent cargo room (~29.8 cu ft behind rear seats; ~63.5 cu ft with seats folded) and competitive passenger space, but in some dimensions (especially cargo folded space) rivals like the CR-V slightly outperform. (zanesvillehonda.com)
Resources & Tools
Here are a few tools and sources you can use if you want to dive deeper or build side-by-side comparisons:
- Edmunds comparison tool — lets you compare specs, MPG, interior dimensions of the Equinox vs other SUVs.
- Kelley Blue Book (KBB) specs page for the Equinox — excellent for detailed trims, cargo capacity, and drivetrain info.
- U.S. News & World Report car rankings — good for seeing expert and owner ratings, especially for reliability and overall scores.
- Chevrolet’s official site — for the most accurate list of standard features, safety items, and color/trim options.
Citations & Disclaimers
- All facts and statistics (horsepower, cargo volume, safety tech, etc.) are based on manufacturer data and credible automotive review sources as of the 2026 model year.
- Some values (fuel economy, performance) may vary depending on trim level, drivetrain (FWD vs AWD), and optional packages.
- Comparative values for competitors are drawn from available data and may be updated in the future as manufacturers release new information.