2026 Chevrolet Equinox Reviews

Introduction

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox emerges as a competitive player in the compact SUV segment, offering a blend of practicality, technology, and comfort. Positioned against rivals such as the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape, the Equinox aims to attract families and individuals seeking a versatile vehicle for daily commuting and weekend adventures.

What’s New

Updated exterior design with a more aggressive front fascia

Enhanced interior materials for improved comfort and aesthetics

New infotainment system with larger touchscreen options

Introduction of an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option for base models

Improved fuel efficiency across engine options

Expanded suite of standard safety features

What We Think

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox showcases significant improvements over its predecessor, particularly in design and technology. The updated exterior gives it a more modern appeal, while the enhanced interior materials elevate the overall experience. However, despite these advancements, the Equinox faces stiff competition in a crowded market. Its performance metrics are solid but may not lead the class. Overall, it remains a strong contender for buyers prioritizing comfort and tech features.

Performance and Fuel Economy

The 2026 Equinox offers a choice of two engines that deliver adequate power for daily driving:

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4: Produces 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.

1.5L Turbocharged Inline-4: Generates 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque.

The vehicle is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth shifts and responsive acceleration. The estimated 0-60 mph time for the 2.0L engine is approximately 6.5 seconds. Fuel economy ratings are competitive, with the 1.5L engine achieving around 28 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, while the 2.0L engine offers about 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.

Engine Options

1.5L Turbocharged Inline-4

This base engine is designed for efficiency, making it ideal for urban driving. It balances power with fuel economy, appealing to budget-conscious consumers.

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

The more powerful option caters to those who desire enhanced performance without sacrificing practicality. It provides robust acceleration and is well-suited for highway merging and overtaking.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

The 2026 Equinox comes equipped with a comprehensive array of safety features:

Standard Automatic Emergency Braking

Forward Collision Alert

Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning

Available Adaptive Cruise Control

Optional hands-free driving technology in select trims

Interior, Cargo Space, and Dimensions

The interior of the Equinox is designed with passenger comfort in mind:

Front Legroom: 40.9 inches

Rear Legroom: 39.9 inches

Cargo Capacity:

Behind Front Seats: 63.9 cubic feet

Behind Rear Seats: 29.9 cubic feet

Compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the Equinox offers competitive cargo space but may fall short in overall passenger volume.

Technology and Infotainment

The infotainment system in the Equinox has been upgraded for better usability:

Touchscreen Sizes: Available in 7-inch or 11-inch options.

Connectivity: Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.

Premium Features:

Available heads-up display (HUD)

Dual-zone climate control

Premium audio system options available in higher trims.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox is offered in several trims to cater to various preferences:

L:** Starting at $26,995 – Base model with essential features.

LT:** Starting at $28,995 – Adds more convenience features.

Premier:** Starting at $32,995 – Top trim with luxury touches and advanced tech.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Sleek exterior design updates enhance curb appeal.

User-friendly infotainment system with modern connectivity options.

Adequate cargo space for everyday use.

Cons:

Lackluster performance compared to some rivals.

No hybrid or electric variant available yet.

Certain advanced features are only available on higher trims.