2026 Chevy Equinox Interior Colors and Materials Guide – The 2026 Chevy Equinox arrives as a refreshed compact SUV that’s blending everyday practicality with standout style and comfort. As families and urban adventurers seek vehicles that feel premium without breaking the bank, the Equinox’s interior stands out for its thoughtful design, versatile options, and high-quality touches. Whether you’re hauling groceries, embarking on a weekend getaway, or simply commuting in style, choosing the right interior colors and materials can transform your drive. In this guide, we’ll dive into the available choices, trim-specific perks, and tips to help you select the perfect setup for your lifestyle—all while keeping things straightforward and inspiring.
Exploring the Trims: How Interiors Differ Across the Lineup
The 2026 Chevy Equinox comes in three main trims—LT, RS, and ACTIV—each tailored to different vibes, from value-driven versatility to rugged exploration. Your trim choice directly influences interior colors and materials, ensuring the cabin matches your personality. Let’s break it down.
LT Trim: Everyday Elegance on a Budget
The LT serves as the accessible entry point, prioritizing comfort without excess. It’s ideal for budget-conscious buyers who want a clean, modern space.
- Standard Seating: Premium cloth upholstery in Black (RPO code EKV), offering a soft, durable feel that’s easy to clean after kid spills or coffee runs.
- Upgrade Path: Opt for the $2,050 Convenience II Package (ZQ3) to unlock Evotex synthetic leather in Black (H9F) or Artemis Gray (ENY). This package also adds perks like an eight-way power driver’s seat and dual-zone climate control, elevating the cabin’s luxury.
Pro tip: If you’re test-driving an LT, fold the 60/40 split rear seats flat to see how the 29.8 cubic feet of cargo space expands—perfect for IKEA hauls.
RS Trim: Sporty Flair with Edgy Accents
For those craving a bolder, performance-inspired look, the RS trim amps up the attitude with unique detailing that makes every drive feel dynamic.
- Signature Color: Black with Red Accents Evotex (H7D), featuring vibrant Torch Red stitching on seats and a flat-bottom steering wheel for that racetrack edge.
- Eye-Catching Touches: Santorini Blue accents weave through the dash and doors, paired with RS-debossed head restraints. The Evotex material wraps sporty, supportive seats that hug you during spirited cornering.
Imagine zipping through city traffic with red-stitched leather-like seats gleaming under the available ambient lighting—it’s a subtle nod to speed without overwhelming the space.
ACTIV Trim: Rugged Comfort for Outdoor Enthusiasts
The ACTIV trim is built for those who live off the beaten path, blending trail-ready toughness with refined coziness.
- Cozy Option: Maple Sugar Sueded Microfiber (ELU), a warm, earthy tone that evokes cabin retreats and pairs beautifully with the trim’s all-terrain tires.
- Material Mix: Combines Evotex on high-wear areas with sueded microfiber inserts for a grippy, luxurious texture that’s surprisingly easy to maintain.
A practical insight: The ACTIV’s center console pass-through is a game-changer for stashing hiking boots or a cooler—test it by loading up gear during a dealership visit to feel the flow.
A Closer Look at Interior Colors: Options and Pairings
Chevrolet keeps 2026 Chevy Equinox interior colors simple yet sophisticated, with just five core schemes tied to trims for easy decision-making. These aren’t just hues; they’re designed to enhance light play and space perception in the Equinox’s airy cabin, complete with an 11-inch driver information center.
Here’s a quick-reference table of the options:
| Interior Color | RPO Code | Trim Availability | Best For… |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black Cloth | EKV | LT | Everyday durability and neutral vibes |
| Black Evotex | H9F | LT (w/ ZQ3 pkg) | Modern minimalism with easy upgrades |
| Artemis Gray Evotex | ENY | LT (w/ ZQ3 pkg) | Cool, contemporary tones for urban dwellers |
| Maple Sugar Sueded Microfiber | ELU | ACTIV | Warm, inviting accents for family adventures |
| Black with Red Accents Evotex | H7D | RS | Bold statements and sporty energy |
These colors coordinate seamlessly with the Equinox’s exterior palette (like Cacti Green or Mosaic Black Metallic), but remember: Lighter shades like Maple Sugar can make the cabin feel larger, while darker ones hide wear better on long road trips.
Materials That Matter: Durability Meets Luxury
What sets the 2026 Equinox interior apart isn’t just color—it’s the thoughtful materials that balance comfort, longevity, and eco-friendliness. Chevrolet leans into sustainable synthetics without skimping on feel.
- Evotex: A standout vegan leather alternative that’s soft to the touch, water-resistant, and quick-drying. Found across LT, RS, and ACTIV, it’s perforated in key spots for breathability on hot days. Example: In the RS, it pairs with red stitching for a premium contrast that rivals pricier rivals.
- Sueded Microfiber: Exclusive to ACTIV’s Maple Sugar scheme, this suede-like fabric adds texture and warmth. It’s grippy for active seating positions but treated to repel stains—ideal if your Equinox doubles as a post-hike shuttle.
- Premium Cloth: The LT baseline, woven for softness and fade resistance. It’s a step up from basic fabrics, with subtle patterns that camouflage crumbs.
Tip for enthusiasts: Pair Evotex with the available heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats (on higher packages) for year-round bliss. For maintenance, a quick wipe with microfiber cloths keeps these surfaces looking showroom-fresh.
Personalizing Your Space: Options and Add-Ons
Customization keeps the 2026 Chevy Equinox feeling fresh and yours. Beyond base colors, consider:
- Stitching and Accents: RS owners get Torch Red or Santorini Blue threads; ACTIV adds rugged finish stitching.
- Packages for More: The Confidence II Package on LT/RS adds a surround-view camera, while ACTIV’s two-tone roof extends the outdoor theme inside.
- Tech Touches: An 11.3-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay integrates seamlessly, regardless of material—opt for ambient lighting to highlight your color choice at night.
A real-world example: A family upgrading from an older SUV might add the Convenience II Package to an LT for Evotex in Artemis Gray, turning a practical hauler into a cozy daily driver.
Choosing the Right Interior: Expert Tips for Buyers
Selecting interior colors and materials boils down to lifestyle, but here’s how to nail it:
- Match Your Routine: Darker blacks suit messy kids or pets; lighter Maple Sugar brightens commutes.
- Test in Context: Visit a dealer at different times of day—natural light reveals how colors shift.
- Budget Wisely: Base cloth saves upfront, but Evotex’s longevity pays off in resale value.
- Eco Angle: Evotex’s recycled content appeals to green-minded drivers without sacrificing style.
By prioritizing feel over flash, you’ll end up with an interior that enhances every mile.
Wrapping Up: Why the 2026 Equinox Interior Shines
The 2026 Chevy Equinox proves that great interiors don’t need to be extravagant—they just need to fit you. From the versatile LT to the adventurous ACTIV, these cabins deliver comfort, style, and smarts in a package that’s as reliable as it is refreshing. As compact SUVs evolve, the Equinox reminds us that the best drives start with a space you love coming back to.
For a quick scan, here’s a summary table of key highlights:
| Trim | Primary Colors | Key Materials | Standout Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| LT | Black Cloth; Black/Artemis Gray Evotex | Cloth, Evotex | Affordable upgrades via packages; flexible seating |
| RS | Black with Red Accents Evotex | Evotex with colored stitching | Sporty accents; debossed headrests |
| ACTIV | Maple Sugar Sueded Microfiber | Evotex, Sueded Microfiber | Rugged texture; console pass-through for gear |
