2026 Chevrolet Equinox: Features, Trims & Specs Near Riverside
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox pairs modern styling with everyday usefulness in a manageable compact-SUV footprint. After its full redesign for 2025, the 2026 model carries forward with minor updates — most notably a standard Drive Mode Selector across the lineup.
Shopping electrified? This page covers the gas-powered Equinox. The Equinox EV is a separate model with its own platform, pricing, and EPA-estimated range.
Trim Levels & Pricing: LT, RS, and ACTIV
The Equinox lineup is simple — three trims, each with a distinct personality: everyday value, sporty street look, or rugged adventure styling.
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| LT | $30,795 | Value — standard heated front seats & heated steering wheel, 17-inch wheels, full tech suite |
| RS | $35,595 | Sport look — blacked-out accents, 19-inch wheels, flat-bottom steering wheel |
| ACTIV | $35,595 | Adventure styling — all-terrain tires, Evotex & sueded microfiber seating |
Polar White Tricoat paint is available on the RS and ACTIV trims.
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, processing and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
Engine, Transmission & Drivetrain
Every 2026 Equinox uses a turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder making 175 horsepower. Front-wheel drive is standard on all three trims, with all-wheel drive available as a $2,000 option. When properly equipped with AWD, the Equinox tows up to 1,500 pounds; FWD models are rated up to 800 pounds.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L Turbocharged I4 |
| Horsepower | 175 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft (FWD) / 203 lb-ft (AWD) |
| Transmission | CVT (FWD) / 8-Speed Automatic (AWD) |
| Drivetrain | FWD standard; AWD available |
| Max Towing | 1,500 lbs (AWD, properly equipped) |
Maximum towing capacity shown is for a properly equipped vehicle and varies by configuration. Trailer weight, cargo, passengers, and optional equipment reduce available towing capacity. Consult the Owner’s Manual and never exceed the stated capacity.
Smart Cabin Technology
Dual-Screen Cockpit
Every model features a standard 11.3-inch diagonal infotainment touchscreen angled toward the driver, paired with an 11-inch diagonal Driver Information Center.
Connectivity
Google Built-In provides apps, navigation, and music through Google Assistant, integrated directly into the vehicle. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are also standard.
Standard Safety: Chevrolet Safety Assist
Every Equinox includes the Chevrolet Safety Assist suite. Adaptive Cruise Control is also available.
| Feature | Status |
|---|---|
| Automatic Emergency Braking | Standard |
| Front Pedestrian Braking | Standard |
| Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning | Standard |
| Forward Collision Alert | Standard |
| IntelliBeam Automatic High Beams | Standard |
| Following Distance Indicator | Standard |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Available |
Interior Space, Cargo & Dimensions
Cargo & Storage
With the 60/40 split-bench rear seat folded, the Equinox offers up to 63.5 cubic feet of cargo volume — roomy enough for camping gear, small furniture, or a week’s worth of luggage. A center console keeps small items within reach, and hidden under-floor storage secures valuables or an emergency kit.
Passenger Room
The cabin comfortably seats five, with rear-seat space for two child safety seats or three passengers on shorter trips — a practical setup for growing families.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Max Cargo Volume | 63.5 cu ft (rear seats folded) |
| Cargo Behind Rear Seat | 29.8 cu ft |
Fuel Economy & Warranty
EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy
| Drivetrain | City | Highway | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| FWD | 26 mpg | 28 mpg | 27 mpg |
| AWD | 25 mpg | 29 mpg | 26 mpg |
EPA-estimated fuel economy. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery-pack age/condition (where applicable), and other factors. Figures shown are for the gas-powered Equinox.
Warranty Coverage
- 3 years / 36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper basic warranty
- 5 years / 60,000 miles powertrain limited warranty
- 6 years / 100,000 miles rust-through protection
- 5 years / 60,000 miles roadside assistance
Warranty terms are subject to Chevrolet’s conditions; see dealer for complete coverage details.
Quick Answers Before You Visit
What is the maximum towing capacity of the 2026 Equinox?
When properly equipped with all-wheel drive, the Equinox can tow up to 1,500 pounds — suitable for light-duty trailers or bike racks. Front-wheel-drive models are rated to tow up to 800 pounds. Maximum capacity varies by configuration; consult the Owner’s Manual and never exceed the stated capacity.
Does the 2026 Equinox come with all-wheel drive?
Front-wheel drive is standard on every trim, and all-wheel drive is available as a $2,000 option across the LT, RS, and ACTIV.
What are the standard safety features in the 2026 model?
Every 2026 Equinox includes Chevrolet Safety Assist, which bundles six features: Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Forward Collision Alert, IntelliBeam, and a Following Distance Indicator.
How large are the screens in the new Equinox?
The Equinox features a dual-screen setup: an 11.3-inch diagonal infotainment touchscreen and an 11-inch diagonal Driver Information Center.
What is the difference between the RS and ACTIV trims?
The RS focuses on a sporty street look with blacked-out accents and 19-inch wheels, while the ACTIV leans adventurous with all-terrain tires and rugged exterior styling. Both start at the same MSRP.
Is this the same as the Equinox EV?
No. This page covers the gas-powered Equinox. The Equinox EV is a separate, all-electric model with its own pricing and EPA-estimated range.
See the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox at Riverside Chevrolet
Whether you’re after an efficient commuter or a versatile family SUV for Riverside, Corona, Eastvale, and the surrounding Inland Empire, our team can help you find the right configuration.