The Chevrolet Equinox is a compact SUV that handles daily driving without much fuss, and it comes loaded with tech. It got a full redesign last year, so this time around Chevrolet kept the changes pretty light. There are still a few updates worth knowing about between the two model years, however. Let's break down what's different between them in this 2026 Chevy Equinox vs 2025 Equinox comparison.
Key Takeaways
- 2026 Chevy Equinox trims start at $30,795 and go up to $35,595 as of December 29, 2025; the 2025 lineup ranges from $29,995 and to $34,395.
- After major changes in 2025, 2026 has just a few tweaks.
- The Equinox can tow about 1,500 pounds when properly equipped.
- There is only one engine option for the Equinox.
2025 vs. 2026 Chevy Equinox Updates and Pricing
The 2025 redesign is still fresh, so Chevy didn't mess with much for '26. The Convenience II package on LT models lost its roof rails, though you can now get black roof rails through the Midnight Edition package or if you add the optional sunroof on LT trims. All Equinox models now come with a drive mode selector, and color-wise, Polar White Tricoat replaces Iridescent Pearl Tricoat on Activ and RS trims.
Pricing and trims for 2026 are:
- LT: $30,495
- Activ: $35,395
- RS: $35,395
For 2025, Chevy's compact SUV got a nearly complete makeover, and its new look makes it seem like a smaller Traverse. The cabin changed dramatically, too, with a redesigned center console and a new dashboard flanked by two big round air vents. Two digital displays take over--an 11.0-inch gauge cluster behind the wheel and an 11.3-inch touchscreen running a Google-based infotainment system. Under the hood sits an updated turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder paired with a CVT. Front-wheel drive comes standard, and all-wheel drive is optional, though AWD models swap the CVT for an eight-speed automatic instead.
Pricing for last year's models is:
- LT: $29,995
- Activ: $34,395
- RS: $34,395
Model Year Changes
| 2026 Chevy Equinox |
2025 Chevy Equinox |
| Convenience II package on LT models no longer includes roof rails |
Redesigned exterior, center console and new dashboard with round air vents introduced |
| Black roof rails available through Midnight Edition or optional sunroof on LT trims |
11.0-inch digital gauge cluster and 11.3-inch touchscreen added |
| Drive mode selector standard on all trims |
Google-based infotainment system introduced |
| Polar White Tricoat replaces Iridescent Pearl Tricoat on Activ and RS trims |
Updated turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine added |
Mileage and Engine Power in the 2025 vs. 2026 Chevy Equinox
As we mentioned above, the Equinox runs a 175-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder. Front-wheel drive gets a CVT, but if you go with all-wheel drive, Chevy throws in an eight-speed automatic for better performance. There are no additional engine options.
For fuel economy, the front-wheel drive version gets 26 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. The all-wheel drive setup loses a bit in the city at 24 mpg but gains slightly on the highway at 29 mpg, so it works better for longer trips.
Can the Chevy Equinox Really Tow?
We admit the Equinox isn't particularly great for heavy towing, but it handles light duty just fine. With all-wheel drive and the right equipment, it pulls up to 1,500 pounds. Go with front-wheel drive, and you're looking at 800 pounds max.
Is the Chevy Equinox Your Next SUV?
The 2026 Chevy Equinox keeps current without reinventing itself. It's a solid compact SUV with plenty of tech at a price that won't break the bank. Swing by our Coleman Motors showroom and see if it's the right fit for you!