2026 Chevy Equinox vs 2025 Equinox Review

  

Future Chevrolet presents a comparison: 2026 Chevy Equinox vs 2025 Chevy Equinox

Whether you choose the 2025 or the most recent 2026 Chevrolet Equinox, you're getting a reliable, versatile small SUV designed to fit your lifestyle. At Future Chevrolet, we know the details matter when picking your next ride, so we've put together a specs comparison between the 2025 and 2026 Equinox models to help you decide.  The 2025 Chevy Equinox already impressed with a fresh redesign, featuring updated exterior styling, a tech-forward interior, and the introduction of the adventure-ready Activ trim. It comfortably seats five passengers and offers plenty of cargo space, making it ideal for everything from daily city driving to family road trips.  Given the 2025 redesign, the 2026 Chevy Equinox builds on this strong foundation and continues with the smooth ride and updated design elements of the 2025 model without any major changes. Expect continued comfort and practicality, paired with intuitive technology that keeps every journey enjoyable.  If you're in Roseville, Folsom, Rocklin, Lincoln, Davis, or Fair Oaks, come visit Future Chevrolet to explore the specs of each model year including engine options, interior features, and trim levels like the LT, Premier, and Activ. We're here to help you find the Equinox that fits your needs-and your budget.  But first, start off with this comprehensive review of this versatile SUV!

Engine Specs and MPG Ratings

The 2026 Chevy Equinox builds on the solid foundation set by the 2025 model, sticking with the proven turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 175 horsepower. Torque remains consistent, with front-wheel-drive models producing 184 lb-ft and all-wheel-drive versions offering 203 lb-ft. The 2025 Chevy Equinox pairs its front-wheel drive with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while all-wheel-drive trims use an eight-speed automatic, and the 2026 model continues this setup to ensure smooth and responsive performance.  The official EPA ratings for the 2026 Equinox are equal to the 2025 model, which achieved an efficient 26 mpg city and 31 mpg highway with front-wheel drive, and 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway with all-wheel drive. The updated transmissions introduced in 2025-replacing the previous six-speed automatic with a CVT and eight-speed automatic- carry over for the 2026 model.  Towing capacity remains a practical 1,500 pounds on both model years, making the Equinox well-suited for light-duty towing needs without compromising everyday versatility.

 
 
 

Interior Comparison

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox maintains the reputation for practicality, comfort, and user-friendly features set by the redesigned 2025 model. Both the 2025 and 2026 Chevy Equinox share a thoughtfully designed cabin with soft-touch materials in key areas, with fun available color options and enhanced trim materials, especially on higher trims, elevating the interior's modern and upscale feel.  Seating remains comfortable for five passengers in both model years, with supportive seats and ample legroom throughout. Higher trims continue to offer leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and power-adjustable driver's seats. The 2026 Equinox further improves comfort with redesigned seat stitching and enhanced padding on select trims for a more premium experience.  The tech upgrades that came with the 2025 model, which  introduced a standard 11-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, carries forward into the 2026 Chevy Equinox, ensuring seamless connectivity across all trims. Cargo capacity remains unchanged, with 29.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 63.9 cubic feet with them folded down. Both model years feature smart storage solutions, including hidden compartments and a hands-free power liftgate on higher trims, keeping versatility a key strength of the Equinox.

Trim Offerings

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox continues with a streamlined trim lineup similar to the 2025 model, featuring the LT, RS, and the adventure-ready Activ trims. As with the previous year, all trims come standard with front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option for added traction and control.  Let's review what each trim brings to the table for our customers in Roseville, Lincoln, Davis, and Fair Oaks.
The base LT trim offers great value, equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, an 11-inch driver information display, and a large 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with built-in Google services and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Safety remains a priority with standard features like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist.  The RS trim adds a sportier flair, boasting 19-inch alloy wheels, blacked-out exterior accents, and a sleek black interior with contrasting stitching. It also includes dual-zone climate control and wireless smartphone charging, blending style with comfort and convenience.  New for 2025 and continuing into 2026, the Activ trim appeals to outdoor enthusiasts with rugged all-terrain tires, a distinctive front fascia, blacked-out badges, and a unique interior color scheme. It keeps practical features such as heated seats and a heated steering wheel, making it ideal for those who want a bold look and off-road capability without sacrificing everyday comfort.

Future Chevrolet

As an expert team, the staff of Future Chevrolet are committed to caring for you and your vehicle!  We are here to make sure you have everything you need, whether it's information about the latest model of the Chevrolet Equinox, service and support for any financial situation, or maintenance on your vehicle.  We pride ourselves on our professional service and staff, and want customers all over the surrounding areas of Roseville, Folsom, Rocklin, Lincoln, Davis and Fair Oaks to choose us as their preferred Chevrolet dealer.  We understand how important it is to know all the facts about your possible new car, so thank you for letting us guide you through a review of the specs of the refreshed 2025 Chevrolet Equinox and the most recent 2026 Chevrolet Equinox. This small SUV packs a punch with responsive handling, intuitive technology, and clean design.  Come test drive one today at Future Chevrolet!

Ordered vehicles must be built at the factory and are not immediately available for delivery. Estimated time of delivery for ordered vehicles is 6 months.