2026 Chevy Equinox Specs - Power, MPG, and Performance

2026 Chevy Equinox Specs – Power, MPG, and Performance – The compact SUV segment is buzzing with options, but the 2026 Chevy Equinox stands out as a reliable workhorse for everyday adventures. Building on the refreshed design from the 2025 model, this year’s Equinox introduces subtle enhancements like a standard drive mode selector and a new Polar White Tricoat paint option, making it even more appealing for families, commuters, and light off-road enthusiasts. What truly sets it apart, though? Its balanced blend of power, fuel efficiency, and performance that doesn’t break the bank—starting at around $29,995.

If you’re eyeing a vehicle that handles school runs as effortlessly as weekend getaways, the Equinox delivers. In this guide, we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty of its engine specs, real-world MPG, and driving dynamics. Whether you’re a budget-conscious buyer or a gearhead chasing that sweet spot between efficiency and fun, these details will help you decide if the 2026 Equinox fits your garage.

Powertrain: The Heart of the Equinox

At its core, the 2026 Chevy Equinox relies on a proven turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-four engine (codenamed LYX), tuned for a harmonious mix of pep and parsimony. Chevrolet hasn’t reinvented the wheel here—it’s a carryover from the prior year—but fine-tuned calibrations ensure smooth operation across diverse conditions.

Engine Specifications

This mill punches out:

175 horsepower at 5,800 RPM for FWD models.
184 pound-feet of torque at 2,500 RPM (FWD).
A bumped-up 203 pound-feet for AWD variants, giving them a slight edge in low-speed grunt.

Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) on FWD setups, power delivery feels seamless, like a gentle nudge rather than a jolt. Opt for all-wheel drive, and you get an eight-speed automatic for more precise shifts during spirited drives. Tip: If you’re towing a small trailer (up to 1,500 pounds), the AWD’s extra torque makes light work of inclines—perfect for hauling bikes or camping gear without drama.

For context, this setup isn’t about drag-strip thrills but everyday usability. Imagine merging onto the highway with confidence; the turbo spools quickly enough to keep traffic at bay, yet it’s whisper-quiet at cruise. Chevrolet’s engineers even added a standard drive mode selector for 2026, letting you tweak settings for Eco (max efficiency), Normal (balanced), or Sport (sharper throttle response). A practical insight: Families hauling kids’ sports equipment will appreciate the Eco mode’s subtle fuel-saving tweaks, which can eke out an extra mile per gallon on familiar routes.

Fuel Economy: Efficient Miles Without Sacrifice

Fuel costs add up fast in today’s world, and the 2026 Chevy Equinox MPG ratings prove Chevrolet’s commitment to keeping them in check. Thanks to minor testing protocol updates and calibration tweaks, this model sees slight gains over 2025—nothing revolutionary, but enough to matter for high-mileage drivers.

EPA-Estimated MPG Breakdown

Here’s how the Equinox stacks up by drivetrain:

Drivetrain	City MPG	Highway MPG	Combined MPG
FWD	26	28	27
AWD	24	29	26

These figures come from EPA testing, but real-world results often hover around 24-27 mpg combined, depending on your habits. For example, aggressive acceleration in stop-and-go traffic can dip you to 22 mpg, while steady highway cruising might hit 30. Pro tip: Use the available Stop/Start system religiously—it shuts off the engine at lights, potentially saving 5-10% on urban fuel use. And with a 14.8-gallon tank, expect a range of about 400 miles per fill-up, ideal for cross-state jaunts without constant pit stops.

Compared to rivals like the Honda CR-V (up to 30 mpg combined), the Equinox isn’t the absolute leader, but it holds its own in a class where practicality trumps perfection. For eco-conscious buyers, consider how AWD’s highway edge shines on long trips—pair it with 87-octane fuel, and you’re looking at wallet-friendly ownership.

Performance: Balanced Handling for Real Roads

Don’t let the family-friendly vibe fool you—the 2026 Chevy Equinox performance shines in its composed, no-fuss demeanor. Zero-to-60 mph takes a leisurely 8.5-9 seconds (per independent tests), which suits 90% of drivers but might leave hot hatch fans wanting more. Where it excels? Everyday agility and comfort.

Key Performance Highlights

Suspension and Ride: A MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear setup absorbs potholes like a champ, delivering a plush ride that’s quieter than ever thanks to enhanced sound insulation.
Braking: Standard disc brakes all around haul the Equinox to a stop from 60 mph in about 125 feet—confident and progressive, with available features like automatic emergency braking adding peace of mind.
Drivetrain Options: FWD is nimble for city parking, while AWD engages seamlessly for rain-slicked roads or light snow, distributing power to where it’s needed most.

Engaging? Absolutely, in a subtle way. The new drive modes let you dial in Sport for twistier backroads, sharpening steering feel without drama. A real-world example: On a 200-mile road trip, the Equinox’s stability control kept things planted during gusty winds, while the CVT’s infinite ratios meant no hunting for gears on hills. For enthusiasts, it’s not a corner-carver, but add the RS trim’s 19-inch wheels and sport-tuned suspension, and it gains a playful edge—think confident canyon carving without sacrificing rear-seat comfort.

Safety ties into performance too, with over 15 standard driver aids like forward collision alert and lane-keep assist. Insight: If you’re upgrading from an older SUV, the Equinox’s responsive electric power steering feels modern and intuitive, reducing fatigue on long hauls.

Why the 2026 Equinox Delivers Value

Beyond the numbers, the Equinox’s appeal lies in its versatility. Trims like the adventure-focused ACTIV (with off-road bumpers) or stylish RS cater to different tastes, all while maintaining that core efficiency. It’s not the flashiest in the segment, but for under $35,000 fully loaded, it offers Chevy’s five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty and complimentary first maintenance visit. Practical takeaway: Test drive both FWD and AWD to feel the torque difference— it could sway your choice based on your local weather.

Summary: Key Points at a Glance

The 2026 Chevy Equinox nails the compact SUV sweet spot: solid power for daily duties, impressive MPG for the long game, and performance that’s engaging without excess. It’s a smart pick for those prioritizing reliability over raw speed.

Feature	FWD Details	AWD Details	Notes/Tips
Engine/Power	1.5L Turbo I4, 175 hp, 184 lb-ft	1.5L Turbo I4, 175 hp, 203 lb-ft	Use Sport mode for quicker response
Transmission	CVT	8-Speed Automatic	CVT excels in efficiency
MPG (City/Hwy/Comb)	26/28/27	24/29/26	Real-world: Aim for steady speeds
0-60 mph	~8.5 seconds	~9.0 seconds	Adequate for merging, not racing
Towing Capacity	1,500 lbs	1,500 lbs	Great for small trailers
Fuel Tank/Range	14.8 gal / ~400 miles	14.8 gal / ~385 miles	Eco mode boosts highway range