Since much of the heavy lifting occurred last year, the 2026 Chevy Equinox is mostly about minor equipment changes and color updates. Find out how the entry-level LT compares to the rugged-styled Activ here!
Key Takeaways:
- The LT is the base trim for the Equinox lineup.
- Chevy didn’t make major changes in 2026—it limited updates to packages and paint.
- The towing capacity is 1,500 pounds with AWD, but only 800 with FWD.
What Changes Have been Made to the 2026 Chevy Equinox Trims?
The most notable change for 2026 involves optional features. If you get an LT with the Convenience II package, it no longer comes with roof rails, though you can still get black ones through the Midnight Edition or by adding a sunroof. On the plus side, every 2026 trim now includes a drive-mode selector as standard equipment. Chevy also swapped out the Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint for a new Polar White Tricoat on the Activ and RS models.
Pricing remains consistent, with the LT starting at $30,495 while the Activ and RS both begin at $35,395, as of March 3, 2026.
What Engine Is Found in the 2026 Chevy Equinox?
Every 2026 Equinox uses a 175-hp 1.5-liter turbocharged engine. Your choice of drivetrain changes the transmission and the torque. Front-wheel-drive models use a CVT, while all-wheel-drive versions use an eight-speed automatic and bump torque up to 203 lb-ft.
Can the 2026 Chevy Equinox Tow a lot?
Towing is light on this SUV. To hit the 1,500-pound maximum, you have to have the all-wheel-drive setup. If you stick with front-wheel drive, the limit drops to 800 pounds.
Fuel economy depends on where you drive. The FWD version gets 26 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. If you move to AWD, the city mileage drops to 24 mpg, but the highway efficiency actually improves to 29 mpg.
What Makes the 2026 Equinox Activ Different from the LT?
The LT comes with 17-inch machined-face wheels, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and remote start. You also get heated mirrors and automatic high beams. Inside, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 5G Wi-Fi hotspot, and teen driver safety settings are standard. The Convenience Package II adds an eight-way power driver’s seat, dual-zone climate control, and a wireless charging pad, and upgrades like a hands-free power liftgate, rain-sensing wipers, and a heated wiper rest. For a different look, the Midnight Edition brings 19-inch wheels, black mirror caps, and those black roof rails.
The Equinox Activ looks more like an off-roader and builds on the RS trim. It uses exclusive 17-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires and features a more rugged front-end design. Inside, the cabin features synthetic leather and suede upholstery. If you want the top-tier tech, you can add the Convenience Package III, which adds an eight-way power-adjustable seat for the front passenger, ventilated front seats, and heated rear seats. It even includes memory settings for the driver.
| 2026 Equinox LT | 2026 Equinox Activ |
|---|---|
| 17-inch machined-face wheels | 17-inch all-terrain wheels |
| Heated front seats & heated steering wheel | Heated rear seats (Pkg III) |
| Cloth seating | Synthetic leather & suede seating |
| 8-way power driver seat (Pkg II) | 8-way power driver seat with memory (Pkg III) |
| Wireless charging (Pkg II) | Ventilated front seats (Pkg III) |
| Midnight Edition black accents | Midnight Edition black accents |
Which Equinox Is Best For You?
The LT is the value play, covering the standard tech and comfort most people need for a daily commute. The Activ is for those who want a tougher look and higher-end interior materials like suede. Since they both share the same 175-hp engine, the choice really comes down to whether you want the standard features or the off-road styling and extra cabin luxuries. If you’re still not sure, McQuillen Chevrolet GMC is here to help—test drive both today!
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