CHEVROLET Equinox 2026

Admittedly, General Motors has pulled off a real coup with the Chevrolet Equinox EV, at least in Quebec. This model not only dominated the electric vehicle sales charts in the province in 2024, but it also revived the nameplate of a model that had been languishing in the lower tiers of the rankings, both in terms of its performance and its sales success.

The positive reputation—largely well-deserved—of the Equinox EV could also benefit the gasoline-powered version of this SUV, especially since it underwent a major redesign for the 2025 model year. The two vehicles still don't share any body panels or powertrain components, but their similarities remain evident. This is particularly true inside, where the outdated dashboard of the previous-generation gasoline Equinox has been replaced by the modern, tech-forward interior introduced in the electric version.

This evolution comes at a price, of course, even though GM has largely retained the architecture, powertrain, and dimensions of the previous generation. First, the LS trim level has been discontinued, making the LT the base model. Since prices have increased twice, in 2025 and again in 2026, buyers now have to pay some $5,400 more than in 2024 to purchase a base front-wheel-drive Equinox ($36,998, including freight, preparation, and dealer fees).

The price difference between the 2024 and 2026 RS variants is similar, but it narrows to just under $2,000 when comparing the LT trims of the two model years. It's worth noting that Chevrolet is one of the few manufacturers that still offers an SUV of this size with only two-wheel drive. We can safely assume that most buyers will pay the extra $2,300 for all-wheel drive.

Does the Equinox's facelift and its new eight-speed transmission give it what it takes to compete with the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, and Nissan Rogue—the perennial sales leaders in this segment? And how does it compare to the electric version in terms of price?

Check out our review section for the opinions of our automotive experts, summarized in five highlights.

Chevrolet did a great job updating the gasoline-powered Equinox. First, on the mechanical side: its small turbocharged engine still isn't particularly impressive, but the new eight-speed transmission at least allows it to keep pace with the competition. The driving experience has also improved significantly thanks to noticeably better steering and a more balanced suspension than ever before.

The interior is also more pleasant, with the bland atmosphere of the previous model replaced by a more refined finish, modern interfaces, and better-designed seats. Driving the Equinox no longer feels like piloting a vehicle hastily rented from the airport, although in terms of space, many rivals still outdo GM's offering.

Several of these rivals are also priced lower than the Equinox, while offering at least the same level of comfort, quality, features, and fuel economy. That said, the model's strongest competition will likely come from its own brand, with the addition of the "EV" suffix. With monthly payments only slightly higher than those of the gasoline-powered Equinox, the electric version promises substantial savings on operating costs.

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