2026 Chevy Equinox
As the SUV segment remains strong in popularity, most automakers strive to provide consumers with the best option. Since its inception, Chevy has been closely tied to the SUV, as models like the Blazer and Suburban are synonymous with the vehicle class. The most popular model in the Chevy SUV fleet is the Equinox. Agile and equipped with a powertrain that will help drivers save money at the pump, the Equinox has long been a favorite among families and drivers who live in urban and suburban areas. With a new model year here, the 2026 Chevy Equinox promises to carry on the same excellence and efficiency as its predecessors.
The Equinox underwent a considerable change in 2025 as it began its fourth generation. Updates such as a new infotainment interface, transmission, and various styling changes have led the Equinox to be more popular than ever. And while some things have been altered on Chevy’s great compact SUV, some things have remained consistent, like its quality and price. With a low starting MSRP of only $28,600, the 2026 Equinox costs far less than some competitors.[a] As we’ll soon describe, Chevy doesn’t just give you a bargain, but much more for your money.
Understanding everything a vehicle can offer you is essential before considering its purchase. This is what we’d like to do for you regarding the 2026 Equinox. At McCluskey Chevrolet, we’re proud to represent the Chevy brand and are impressed year after year with what this model offers. So, let’s take a look at what the 2026 Chevy Equinox brings to the fold. We will review the powertrain and interior, and we’ll even look at the many driving assistance features in the Chevy Safety Assist suite. Start your engines!
MSRP: $28,600 [a]
Horsepower: 175
Torque: 203 lb-ft
Cargo Space: 63.5 cu.ft.
Performance
From the moment the first models rolled off the assembly line, the Equinox has been designed with the average consumer in mind. It has always provided agile handling that’s more in common with a sedan than the typical SUV. Most drivers will be satisfied with what they find under the hood of a Chevy Equinox, as it has always come with a powertrain that highlights fuel economy, making it ideal for driving in the city and for undertaking light recreational activities.
The Equinox has consistently given drivers great performance, and all trims of the 2026 model come with a turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder engine that produces 175 hp. One change that occurred with the Equinox for the 2025 model year was its transmission, of which there are now two, corresponding to the drivetrain you choose. Front-wheel drive is standard, and Equinox models with front-wheel drive have their engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT allows the Equinox’s engine to produce 184 lb-ft of torque. Estimates for a 2026 Chevy Equinox with front-wheel drive are exceptional, as drivers can expect to achieve 26 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway, for a combined 27 MPG.
Some drivers prefer their SUVs to be equipped with all-wheel drive. A 2026 Chevy Equinox with all-wheel drive utilizes the same turbocharged four-cylinder engine but comes paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission to bolster performance. This combination can produce 203 lb-ft of torque. The optional all-wheel drivetrain does little to lessen the Equinox’s exceptional fuel economy, as this setup can get 24 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway, for a combined 26 MPG. Regardless of what drivetrain you choose, the 2026 Equinox can facilitate light towing duties, as it offers a 1,500-lb capacity.
The 2026 Chevy Equinox continues to offer drivers sustainable fuel economy and exceptional handling, making it great for on-road and off-road applications alike. Regardless of your drivetrain, you will get an SUV that can go longer distances between fill-ups. The modern driver partakes in all kinds of errands and activities, and the latest Equinox can facilitate them all, regardless of what they might be.
Interior
The Equinox is certainly impressive under the hood; its powertrain facilitates exceptional fuel economy, which is one aspect that has made the Equinox a favorite among drivers. But commuters look for more than fuel economy and agility when choosing an SUV to satisfy their needs. The modern driver looks for a way to stay connected with the apps and other technologies they use daily. Not to mention, they want an interior that offers a comfortable ride that makes any trip enjoyable, regardless of the distance. The 2026 Chevy Equinox delivers comfort, connectivity, and the practical features that have made the SUV segment so popular.
Staying connected is essential to most drivers, and they can do so through their vehicle’s infotainment interface. The 2026 Chevy Equinox offers an intuitive, user-friendly experience with an 11.3-inch touchscreen. The infotainment system provides wireless connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Via Google Built-In, drivers can access navigation, music, podcasts, maps, and more, thanks to the world’s top search engine. Most Chevy Equinox trims come with a wireless charging pad, allowing you to leave your phone cables at home. The interior has multiple USB ports, too, allowing you to bring more devices on the go.
The Equinox offers comfortable seating for five passengers, and most trims have dual-zone climate control. Cold mornings are no longer an issue thanks to the heated driver and passenger seats across all trims. Besides offering plenty of technology and comfort for commuters, the 2026 Equinox also provides the practical aspects that have made the SUV segment so popular among drivers. With all five seats occupied, the Equinox offers 29.8 cu.ft. of storage room, which is almost double the trunk space of a typical four-door sedan (15 cu.ft.). For across-town moves and other situations where cargo room is key, the rear row can be folded down, unlocking 63.5 cu.ft. of available space.
The 2026 Chevy Equinox offers everything you need in a single package. It provides a rewarding commute with a spacious interior that satisfies both comfort and storage. With the inclusion of an advanced and user-friendly interface with connectivity tools from Apple, Android, and Google, drivers have the best technology at their fingertips.
Safety
The most important aspect of any vehicle is its capacity for safety, hence why we’ve saved this category for the final part of our examination. Chevy has always maintained a reputation for safety that matches the one it’s established for performance. The 2026 Chevy Equinox is no exception and has multiple driver assistance features to help provide safe travels.
Like other vehicles built by the bowtie brand, the latest Equinox comes with Chevy Safety Assist, a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features that cover the basics of helping you stay safe on the road. Features such as automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, a following distance indicator, and a forward collision warning all play a crucial role in enhancing reaction time, which can help you avoid a potential collision.
The lane keeping assist and lane departure warning can help you maintain a correct position in your lane by providing alerts and corrective steering. Chevy’s IntelliBeam automatic high beams engage when visibility is limited, and they disengage when other vehicles approach. The 2026 Equinox also comes standard with adaptive cruise control (with lane-centering technology), which is one of the most sought-after features among modern drivers. By adjusting your speed in accordance with traffic patterns, adaptive cruise control can help you maintain a safe distance from other vehicles while traveling on the highway.
The 2026 Equinox also comes with GM’s Teen Driver tool, which includes a virtual report card that helps parents monitor the driving of the newest drivers in the household. Parents can set limitations on stereo volume and speed, monitor travel habits, and prevent certain driving assistance features from being disabled. Drivers who want even more assurance and safety with the Equinox can have it equipped with the Safety & Technology Package. Rear pedestrian alert and traffic sign recognition are some features included with this package that can grant you additional oversight where it matters most.
Chevy’s dedication to its customers is nothing short of extraordinary. In addition to equipping the 2026 Equinox with an economical powertrain and an advanced infotainment interface, Chevy’s standard safety features are among the best in the industry. Regardless of your chosen trim, you’re getting the protection you need for your peace of mind.
Test Drive a 2026 Equinox Today!
The 2026 Chevy Equinox checks all the boxes regarding what modern drivers want in an SUV. With its economical powertrain, tech-savvy interior features, and abundance of standard safety tools, the latest Equinox offers more than the competition.
At McCluskey Chevrolet, you have a chance to test drive the 2026 Equinox and experience everything it offers. Our sales team will review the different trims with you, helping you choose the right one. Our finance department can help you get behind the wheel. Later, our service center can help you get the most out of your purchase and be able to enjoy it for many years. Visit us today to test-drive Chevy’s excellent compact SUV.
