2026 Chevrolet Equinox

Performance 

A turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-four powers all 2026 Equinox models. It produces 175 horsepower @ 5,600 rpm and 203 pound-feet of torque @ 2,000 rpm. Front-wheel drive (FWD) models pair the engine to a continuously variable transmission, resulting in an EPA-estimated city/highway/combined MPG of 26/28/27. All-wheel drive (AWD) models pair the engine to an 8-speed transmission. Compared to the front-drive models, the AWD drivetrain gets slightly lower city mileage (24 MPG) but higher highway mileage (29 MPG), with a combined figure of 26 MPG.  

The unibody chassis features a four-wheel independent suspension with struts up front and multi-link geometry in the rear. The suspension is tuned for comfortable family hauling, soaking up road imperfections, and providing a smooth steering feel. Towing capacity is moderate and best left to the AWD model, rated at 1,500 pounds compared to 800 pounds for FWD.

Exterior 

The front of the 2026 Equinox is an excellent example of Chevrolet’s crossover/SUV design language with a thin upper grille flanked by low-profile LED daytime running lights and a lower grille separated from almost hidden LED headlights in the corners. The 2026 Equinox flaunts its two-inch wider stance with muscular sculpting over each wheel and sharp character lines across the upper body. The distinctive shark-fin C-pillar resembles that of the larger Traverse and paves the way for a possible two-tone exterior color treatment.   

Above the base level LT, the appearance moves in two different directions, with the new ACTIV model taking on a rugged appearance and the RS taking on a sporty street style. The stylish aluminum wheels start at 17 inches for the LT, with unique 17-inch wheels combined with all-terrain tires for the ACTIV. The RS features standard 19-inch wheels, with 20-inch wheels available as an option.

Interior 

The attractive and advanced-looking cabin features appealing materials and a logical layout. All models present the driver with an 11.0-inch color digital gauge cluster that can be configured to the driver’s taste. In the center, and canted slightly toward the driver, is an 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen.   

The big screen is balanced out by physical controls for the climate and most-used audio functions. The transmission control is now mounted to the right of the steering column, freeing up the center console to house a convenient rotary control for the infotainment system, an optional wireless smartphone charger, and dual cupholders.  

Front passengers enjoy 41.0 inches of legroom, and rear passengers fare almost as well with 40.0 inches. Likewise, headroom is 41.0 inches in the front and 39.0 inches in the rear. Overall, there are 104 cubic feet of passenger volume. Behind the rear seats is approximately 30 cubic feet of cargo space. When the rear seat is not needed, this expands to 63.5 cubic feet, with the rear seatbacks split 60/40 to maximize passenger and cargo combinations. Beneath the cargo floor is an additional space for hidden items. 

Technology 

The 11.3-inch touchscreen is powered by the Google Built-In operating system, which brings with it in-vehicle Google Maps, the Google Assistant voice-command system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability. The system also makes it easy to download other apps from the Google App Store, which will operate separately from any smartphone connection. A rotary dial on the center console can also assist with screen navigation.    

USB media/charge connections are in the front, and there are additional charging ports for rear passengers. Wireless smartphone charging is standard on the RS and ACTIV trims.  

Safety and Driver Assistance  

All 2026 Equinox models come standard with the Chevy Safety Assist suite of safety and driver assistance technologies. Included in the system are:  

• Automatic Emergency Braking  

• Forward Collision Alert  

• Front Pedestrian and Bicyclist Braking  

• Following Distance Indicator  

• Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning  

• IntelliBeam (automatic high and low beam switching)  

Equinox has many additional safety technologies as standard equipment, including:  

• Adaptive Cruise Control  

• Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert  

• Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking  

• Rear Cross Traffic Braking  

• Rear Park Assist  

• Enhanced Lane Keep Assist  

• Side Bicyclist Alert  

• Rear Vision Camera  

• Rear Seat Reminder  

An additional standard safety technology is Teen Driver, which enables parents to instruct and instill safe driving habits in new drivers even when they’re not there. Parents can conveniently activate customizable vehicle settings from the infotainment screen and view their teen’s driving performance.