Overview
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox is available in two parallel versions: the proven 1.5L turbocharged gas model and the all-new Equinox EV. Together they represent Chevy's full compact SUV offering.
The Equinox EV has been especially significant — at $34,995, it undercut every other EV SUV at launch and helped GM demonstrate that affordable EVs are viable.
When launched, the Equinox EV was the lowest-priced new EV SUV in the US. GM committed to build 100,000+ units annually — a serious challenge to Tesla Model Y dominance in the compact EV SUV segment.
2026 Trims & Pricing
Gas Equinox in three trims; Equinox EV in separate LT and RS configurations.
Full Specs
| Spec | Gas 1.5L | EV LT FWD | EV RS AWD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | 1.5L Turbo I-4 | Single Motor EV | Dual Motor EV |
| HP | 175 hp | 210 hp | 290 hp |
| Range / MPG | 28/34 mpg | 319 mi EPA | 303 mi EPA |
| 0–60 | ~8.0 s | ~7.2 s | ~5.8 s |
| Max Tow | 1,500 lb | 1,000 lb | 3,500 lb |
| DC Fast Charge | N/A | 150 kW | 150 kW |
| Connector | N/A | NACS | NACS |
| Cargo | 63.9 cu ft max | 57.3 cu ft max | 57.3 cu ft max |
Gas Efficiency
EPA-rated range is tested at moderate speed/temp. Real-world at 70 mph is approximately 248 miles. Cold weather (32°F) reduces range ~22%. Towing near max capacity reduces range 45–55%. Always plan charging stops when towing long distances.
At $30,995 with up to 34 mpg highway, the gas Equinox LS is among the best-value compact SUVs in America. No other mainstream compact SUV starts lower with comparable efficiency.
The gas Equinox's 1.5L turbocharged engine returns up to 28 city / 34 hwy mpg in FWD — competitive in the compact SUV class. AWD drops slightly to 26/31 mpg.
EV Range & Charging
The Equinox EV LT at $34,995 is under the federal EV MSRP cap, making it potentially eligible for up to $7,500 in federal tax credits. Effective price for qualifying buyers can drop near $27,500.
The Equinox EV LT starts at $34,995 — under the $35K psychological barrier that opens the $7,500 federal EV tax credit for income-qualifying buyers.
DC fast charging at 150 kW adds roughly 70 miles in 10 minutes. NACS connector standard gives access to Tesla Superchargers.
Tech & Safety
The Equinox EV includes Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store natively — no phone required for navigation or voice commands.
An 11.3-inch LVDS diagonal touchscreen with Google built-in is standard on LT and above. Chevy Safety Assist — including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep, and rear cross-traffic alert — is standard across all trims.
Reliability
Gas Equinox (6th gen, 2018+) reliability is strong and well-proven. Equinox EV is new for 2024 — early data is positive but long-term durability is still being established.
| Area | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5L Gas Powertrain | Good | Proven over millions of units; well-regarded in class |
| EV Motor/Battery | Good (early) | Limited long-term data; early reports positive |
| EV Charging System | Average | Some DC fast charge session failures reported early |
| Transmission (Gas) | Good | CVT smooth; minimal complaints in current gen |
| Electronics | Average | Some LVDS screen lag; OTAs improving stability |
| Overall (Gas) | Good | Reliable class leader; recommend 2021+ model years |
Consult Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and NHTSA for the specific model year you are considering. Build year matters significantly.
Recalls
Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls using your 17-digit VIN. New recalls are issued regularly — check before any used vehicle purchase.
Recent Updates
Pros & Cons
319-mile EV range competitive with much pricier rivals
Gas model reliable and fuel-efficient (34 mpg hwy)
Google built-in is intuitive and useful
Federal EV tax credit potentially applies
EV cargo slightly reduced vs gas (57.3 vs 63.9 cu ft)
Gas tow only 1,500 lb — not for trailering
EV reliability data still limited (new platform)
High demand means limited EV inventory in some regions
FAQ
Accessories & Upgrades
Popular upgrades for the Chevrolet . Amazon affiliate links — small commission at no extra cost to you. Disclosure
- Chevrolet Media; NHTSA; EPA fueleconomy.gov; Consumer Reports
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