Space, Safety, Style: The Chevy Equinox Is Built for Real Life

The Chevrolet Equinox has become one of the brand’s cornerstone SUVs, balancing everyday usability with modern technology and a confident design. Since its debut in 2005, the Equinox has continually evolved, and the latest 2026 model builds on that legacy with fresh styling, updated features, and more refinement inside and out. 

Positioned between the smaller Trailblazer and the midsize Blazer, it’s an attractive option in the highly competitive compact SUV segment, rivaling well-known names like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Nissan Rogue here at the Mid Missouri Powerhouse.

What’s New for 2026

Chevrolet has fine-tuned the Equinox lineup with thoughtful updates. A new Polar White exterior shade joins the color palette, while all trims now come with a standard drive mode selector dial for added adaptability. For the LT trim, roof rails are now exclusive to the Midnight Edition, refining its appearance and equipment offerings.

Technology and Connectivity

One of the standout features of the 2026 Equinox is its advanced infotainment system. Built on Google technology, the interface is intuitive and seamless, making it easy to access navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. The system also supports Apple CarPlay, a welcome feature for those who prefer familiar smartphone integration. With large, crisp displays and a clean layout, the cabin feels both modern and user-friendly.

Performance and Efficiency

Under the hood, every Equinox is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers up to 175 horsepower. Paired with either front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive, it provides plenty of confidence for daily driving, highway cruising, and tackling less predictable road conditions. Torque figures range from 184 lb-ft with FWD to 203 lb-ft with AWD, offering solid versatility for a compact SUV.

Efficiency remains an important part of the Equinox’s appeal. Depending on configuration, fuel economy reaches up to an estimated 28 mpg on the highway, ensuring that drivers can enjoy longer stretches between fill-ups. With gas tank sizes ranging from 14.8 to 15.6 gallons, the driving range extends past 400 miles in certain versions, an advantage for those who cover more ground.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Chevy Safety Assist, the brand’s comprehensive suite of driver-assist technologies, comes standard across the Equinox lineup. This package includes automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. Other standard features add peace of mind, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and rear emergency braking.

For those seeking even more advanced safety, available upgrades include a surround-view camera system, rear pedestrian alert, and traffic sign recognition. These enhancements make navigating busy environments and unfamiliar roads more confident and stress-free.

Comfort and Interior Versatility

Inside, the Equinox emphasizes space and comfort, with nearly 40 inches of rear-seat legroom that competes strongly against leading rivals. The cabin is thoughtfully arranged, offering plenty of headroom and supportive seating for both front and rear passengers. Cargo capacity measures up to 63.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, leaving room for luggage, outdoor gear, or a family’s weekly errands.

A variety of premium amenities can be equipped to elevate the experience even further. Options include ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a wireless charging pad, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. Combined with smart cabin packaging, these features ensure the Equinox feels as accommodating on long road trips as it does on quick commutes.

Trim Levels and Choices

For 2026, the Chevrolet Equinox is available in three trims: LT, Activ, and RS. Each offers its own blend of style, comfort, and technology, allowing drivers to select a model that best matches their lifestyle. Whether it’s the versatile LT, the rugged-leaning Activ, or the sport-inspired RS, every version delivers the practicality and refinement that have made the Equinox one of Chevrolet’s best-selling vehicles.

The Bottom Line

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox is designed to check all the right boxes for today’s SUV shoppers. It delivers confident performance, strong fuel efficiency, and a well-equipped interior filled with advanced technology and safety features. With its fresh design, versatile trims, and focus on comfort and connectivity, the Equinox stands ready to meet the needs of families, commuters, and adventurers alike.

If you’ve been gradually thinking every compact SUV feels the same, the 2026 Chevy Equinox is your wake-up call! With sleek styling, seamless Google-built infotainment, and a cabin loaded with thoughtful details, this SUV redefines what it means to drive connected and in control. Why not see what all the buzz is about? Stop in for a test drive and experience the Equinox’s perfect blend of modern tech and timeless comfort firsthand.

2026 Chevy Equinox Deep Dive: Trims, Tech, and Features That Matter

As an entity that moves a lot of metal off the lot, let us tell you—when a vehicle is built right from the start, you don’t have to reinvent it every year. That’s exactly the case with the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox. Fresh off a full redesign in 2025, the new model year brings just a couple of subtle but smart enhancements here at the Mid Missouri Powerhouse. 

What’s Changed for 2026?

Chevy now includes the Drive Mode Selector—which lets you tailor the vehicle’s performance for various road conditions—as standard equipment across all trim levels. That’s a nice touch for added confidence, no matter where the road takes you.

As for paint options, things are streamlined this year. A new Polar White Tricoat is exclusive to the Activ and RS trims and comes with an added cost. Meanwhile, Summit White is still available at no extra charge on the entry-level LT trim.

Outside of that, the 2026 Equinox remains unchanged—and that’s not a bad thing. Pricing stays the same too, starting at $29,995.

2026 Equinox Pricing and Availability

Good news—the 2026 Equinox is available now. You can choose between front-wheel drive (standard) or all-wheel drive, which is available across the lineup for an additional $2,000.

Here’s the current pricing breakdown:

• LT: $29,995
  
  

• Activ: $34,395
  
  

• RS: $34,395
  
  

You’ll also find plenty of inventory options like:

• 2026 Equinox 1LT: $34,045
  
  

• 2026 Equinox AWD Activ: $38,085
  
  

Trim Levels & Features That Make a Difference

Each trim has its own character, especially up front. The LT sports a chrome-accented grille, the Activ gets a bold chrome surround with black detailing, and the RS brings a blacked-out grille with body-color accents for a more aggressive look.

Standard features on the LT include:

• 17-inch alloy wheels
  
  

• LED headlights and taillights
  
  

• Keyless entry and start
  
  

• Heated front seats and heated steering wheel
  
  

• 11-inch digital gauge cluster
  
  

• 11.3-inch touchscreen with Google Built-In, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto
  
  

When it comes to safety, the Equinox delivers across the board. Every trim comes equipped with:

• Automatic emergency braking
  
  

• Forward collision alert with pedestrian and cyclist detection
  
  

• Adaptive cruise control
  
  

• Lane keep assist and departure warning
  
  

• Blind spot monitoring with intervention
  
  

• Rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors, and auto high beams
  
  

Looking for extra peace of mind? A 360-degree camera and road sign recognition are available in the optional Safety and Technology Package.

Activ vs. RS: What’s the Difference?

Both trims come with roof rails, a hands-free liftgate, and rain-sensing wipers. Inside, they share:

• Power-adjustable driver’s seat
  
  

• Dual-zone automatic climate control
  
  

• Wireless phone charging
  
  

The Activ goes rugged with 17-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, and synthetic suede seating. The RS, meanwhile, leans sporty with 19-inch wheels, all-season tires, and leather-style upholstery.

Performance & Fuel Economy

Under the hood, all 2026 Equinox models are powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Output is:

• 175 horsepower
  
  

• 184 lb-ft of torque (FWD models with CVT)
  
  

• 203 lb-ft of torque (AWD models with 8-speed automatic)
  
  

Official fuel economy ratings are still pending for 2026, but we expect numbers close to the 2025 model:

• FWD: 26 city / 28 highway / 27 combined mpg
  
  

• AWD: 24 city / 29 highway / 26 combined mpg
  
  

In fact, the AWD model's traditional 8-speed automatic performs slightly better on the highway than the FWD’s CVT.

Final Thoughts from the Showroom Floor

Chevy didn’t mess with a winning formula for 2026—and as a dealer, I get why. The Equinox offers serious bang for the buck, especially in safety tech and everyday comfort. Whether you're leaning toward the capable LT, adventurous Activ, or sporty RS, you’re getting one of the most well-rounded compact SUVs in the game today.

Shopping for a new SUV? Don’t settle for a spreadsheet comparison. The real deal is waiting here at the dealership, and I guarantee the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox will impress. Whether you're looking for tech, comfort, or capability, this SUV brings it—all without blowing your budget. The best part? You can take one for a test drive today.

Let’s get you in the driver’s seat so you can experience what all the hype is about!

Where Comfort Meets Connection: The 2025 Equinox Keeps Families Reliably Rolling

Chevrolet’s latest redesign of its popular Equinox SUV is a game-changer for families. It’s not just a vehicle—it’s a value-packed companion for your everyday adventures. With a refreshed look, upgraded tech, and a price tag that’s as family-friendly as its features, the Equinox proves you don’t need to compromise on style or function in the least here at the Mid Missouri Powerhouse. 

Stylish Design That Turns Heads

The 2025 Equinox sports a bold new look with Chevy's signature grille and squared-off wheel arches for a touch of rugged sophistication. It’s the perfect blend of truck-inspired toughness and compact SUV practicality, making it a standout in the crowded crossover market. Inside, Chevrolet has raised the bar, trading in plastic-heavy finishes for a sleek, stylish cabin designed to impress.

Room to Spare, Comfort Everywhere

Whether it’s a quick grocery run or a road trip with the whole crew, the Equinox delivers on space and comfort. With seating for five adults, generous cargo capacity, and a ride that’s smooth and quiet, it’s built for families on the go. Plus, with fuel economy rated at 24 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, it keeps the environment and your wallet in mind.

Packed with Features for Modern Families

Chevy packs in all the premium features you want—no compromises. The Equinox comes loaded with advanced safety tech, including emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. For added convenience, the new 11-inch infotainment screen, wireless charging, and heated seats keep everyone happy. Optional packages offer even more, like a surround-view camera system and ventilated front seats.

Performance That Delivers

Under the hood, the Equinox features a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine paired with a smooth 8-speed automatic transmission. It’s tuned to deliver a balance of power and efficiency, perfect for daily drives or weekend getaways. With three drive modes—Normal, Snow/Ice, and Off-Road—you’re prepared for whatever the road (or trail) throws your way.

Affordable Luxury

The Equinox RS, with its sporty styling and premium features, delivers incredible value for families seeking top-tier amenities in an all-wheel-drive vehicle. Even with additional option packages, it remains well below the current average price of a new car, making it a standout choice for those wanting a mix of style, performance, and affordability.

With the RS, you get a bold, sporty look featuring blacked-out trim, eye-catching RS badging, a stylish two-tone color scheme, and sleek 19-inch wheels. Inside, it's all about convenience and style, with a wireless charging pad, a drive mode selector for tough weather conditions, and a sporty flat-bottom steering wheel. 

Plus, the RS includes Chevy's comprehensive suite of safety features, like automatic rear emergency braking and front pedestrian braking—though it doesn’t come with Super Cruise. Whether you're navigating city streets or tackling the elements, the Equinox RS is ready for it all.

Not Just Bigger, But Smarter: The 2025 Equinox's Roomier Interior Explained

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox offers a bit more room inside, thanks to a slight 2.5-inch increase in width compared to the previous model. While front legroom and headroom remain unchanged, the second-row legroom has grown to 39.2 inches, just a bit more than before, and more than the Honda CR-V, which offers less headroom in both rows.

In terms of cargo space, the Equinox still provides generous capacity, with 63.5 cubic feet with the seats down, just a small drop from the previous 63.9 cubic feet. With the rear seats up, it offers 29.8 cubic feet—essentially the same as before. Chevy maximizes the space in the Equinox in smart ways.

There's handy storage under the cargo floor, plus plenty of space in the front, including cubbies in the center console and a shelf large enough to fit a bag. The cupholders are generously sized, and the flat rear floor adds to the convenience. While competitors like Mazda and Subaru offer wider door openings, Chevy makes the most of the space with thoughtful design features that families will appreciate.

The Final Word

The 2025 Chevy Equinox is more than just a compact SUV—it’s a versatile, stylish, and affordable option that prioritizes what families need most: space, safety, and comfort. Chevrolet is proving they’re committed to staying ahead of the curve.

Shopping for a car that does it all? The 2025 Equinox might just be the perfect match for your family’s needs.