2026 Chevrolet Equinox Trims Comparison

Side profile view of the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox driving over a bridge

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The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox offers a compelling trio of trims to meet diverse driver preferences, from practical daily use to sporty styling and adventurous capability. Whether prioritizing value, sporty design, or rugged capability, the Equinox offers a well-rounded selection. Be sure to check out our new Chevrolet offers to see if your SUV of choice is eligible!

What are the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox Trim Levels?

There are three core 2026 Equinox trims: LT, RS and ACTIV, with the Equinox EV also available for those interested in all-electric driving.

Equinox LT

The LT serves as the foundation of the Equinox, boasting a solid balance of value and functionality. This trim includes a standard 11.3-inch diagonal touchscreen infotainment system integrated with Google Built-In, which offers seamless access to navigation, music, and smartphone connectivity via wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

The LT rides on 17-inch wheels, striking a balance between comfort and style, while also packing an impressive suite of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The interior emphasizes comfort with cloth upholstery and a user-friendly climate control system, making it an excellent option for daily commuting and family outings.

  • 1.5L turbo engine
  • Heated front seats and steering wheel
  • 11.3-inch diagonal infotainment touch-screen
  • 11-inch diagonal Driver Information Center

Equinox RS

Moving up the range, the RS introduces a sportier persona designed for drivers seeking a more dynamic appearance and feel. The RS distinguishes itself with 19-inch Carbon Flash machined wheels and a signature flat-bottom steering wheel, lending a performance-inspired touch to the cabin. Exterior styling upgrades include blacked-out accents and distinctive RS badging, which enhance the vehicle’s visual appeal. 

While the core infotainment and safety technologies mirror the LT, the RS offers additional convenience with optional packages that include features like a surround-view camera system and heated front seats. This trim caters to those who want a blend of style and functionality without compromising on everyday usability.

  • Black mirrors, moldings, emblems and badging
  • 19-inch and available 20-inch machined wheels
  • Flat-bottom steering wheel
  • Available two-tone Black roof

Equinox ACTIV

For drivers with an adventurous spirit, the ACTIV is tailored to provide a more rugged aesthetic and enhanced capability. It features all-terrain tires paired with uniquely tuned suspension components that offer improved handling on varied surfaces, though it remains primarily a road-focused crossover. 

The ACTIV’s exterior sports bold design elements such as functional roof rails and specialized badging that emphasize its off-road-inspired character. Inside, the trim incorporates a mix of vinyl and microfiber seating surfaces for durability and comfort. 

While it shares the same infotainment system and many standard safety features as the LT and RS, the ACTIV stands out with its distinctive approach to styling and suspension tuning, making it ideal for drivers who value a tougher look and feel.

  • 17-inch machined wheels
  • All-terrain tires
  • Evotex and sueded microfiber seating surfaces
  • Available two-tone white roof

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How Does the 2026 Chevy Equinox Perform?

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox is uniformly powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 175 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque in front-wheel-drive configurations, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). 

This identical setup aims to balance fuel efficiency with adequate urban and suburban driving performance, which suits the needs of most daily commuters and small families in and around Thompsontown.

Does the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox Have AWD?

For those seeking enhanced traction and slightly more robust performance, Chevrolet offers an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option across all trims. Selecting AWD replaces the CVT with a more traditional eight-speed automatic transmission and boosts torque to 203 pound-feet, allowing the drivetrain combo to improve acceleration responsiveness and deliver better handling in adverse weather or on rougher road surfaces, a valuable feature when navigating Pennsylvania’s variable seasons.

Performance testing indicates a 0 to 60 mph acceleration time of around 8.6 to 8.7 seconds in AWD versions, which is on par with many competitors but may feel less spirited during full passenger and cargo loads. Steering feedback is generally smooth and progressive, though it leans toward being heavier than some rivals, which may reduce agility in tight corners. The Equinox’s suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing typical road imperfections well; however, it can feel a bit bouncy over larger bumps or uneven terrain.

How Efficient is the 2026 Chevy Equinox?

Fuel economy estimates for front-wheel-drive models hover around 27 miles per gallon combined, while AWD variants are rated slightly lower, averaging 26 mpg combined. Real-world mileage might vary, especially under more aggressive driving or highway conditions, but the powertrain’s focus remains on delivering a practical and economical driving experience.

What Safety Features Does the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox Have?

Standard safety features include: 

  • Automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
  • Lane departure warning
  • Lane-keeping assist
  • Adaptive cruise control with lane-centering functionality
  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • Rear cross-traffic alert
  • Stability control

These systems work together to provide proactive support during both city and highway driving, helping to mitigate accidents before they occur. Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) assigns the Equinox top marks in side-impact crash testing, with a 5-star rating, and a solid 4-star rollover resistance, reflecting robust structural integrity.

How Much Space Does the 2026 Chevy Equinox Have?

Behind the rear seats, the vehicle provides approximately 29.8 cubic feet of storage space, which expands to around 63.5 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down. This flat-folding rear bench allows easy transport of larger items such as bicycles or bulky luggage, making the Equinox adaptable for a variety of lifestyle needs. 

Inside, storage solutions include a multi-level center console, door bins, and ample cupholders, ensuring passengers have convenient places to stow personal belongings.

Can I Finance a New Equinox at This Chevrolet Dealership?

Yes! Our Chevy dealership is ready to help you from the car-buying process to Chevrolet leasing:

If you have any questions about any trim of the 2026 Equinox, don’t hesitate to contact us online and be sure to schedule a test drive at our Thompsontown car dealer.

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