2026 Chevy Equinox Towing Capacity and Ground Clearance – The compact SUV segment is buzzing with options that blend city smarts with weekend warrior vibes, and the 2026 Chevy Equinox steps up as a standout for families and solo drivers alike. Building on its fresh 2025 redesign, this year’s Equinox refines its game with subtle tweaks like a standard drive mode selector across all trims, making it even more adaptable to your lifestyle. But let’s cut to the chase: if you’re eyeing this SUV for its ability to haul gear or handle uneven paths, the 2026 Chevy Equinox towing capacity and ground clearance are key metrics that tell a story of practical prowess. These specs aren’t just numbers—they’re your ticket to towing a small camper without breaking a sweat or navigating snowy driveways with confidence. In this guide, we’ll break it all down, from raw capabilities to real-world tips, so you can see why the Equinox deserves a spot in your garage.
What Powers the 2026 Chevy Equinox: Engine and Performance Basics
At the heart of the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox is a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that punches above its weight in efficiency and pep. Delivering 175 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque (bumping up to 203 lb-ft with all-wheel drive), it’s paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for front-wheel-drive models or an eight-speed automatic for AWD variants. This setup keeps things smooth and responsive, whether you’re merging onto the highway or creeping through urban traffic.
Fuel economy hovers around an EPA-estimated 26 mpg city and 31 mpg highway for FWD setups, making it a smart pick for budget-conscious commuters. But performance isn’t just about speed—it’s about versatility. The Equinox’s drive modes (Normal, Snow/Ice, and Off-Road on AWD models) let you dial in the right response for the road ahead. For enthusiasts, the RS trim adds sportier tuning, while the Activ leans into rugged appeal with all-terrain tires.
Quick Engine Specs at a Glance
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L Turbocharged I-4 |
| Horsepower | 175 hp @ 5,800 rpm |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft (203 lb-ft AWD) |
| Transmission | CVT (FWD) / 8-speed Auto (AWD) |
| Fuel Economy (FWD) | 26 city / 31 hwy / 28 combined |
This powertrain sets the stage for the Equinox’s towing and clearance strengths, ensuring you get capable handling without guzzling gas.
Unpacking the 2026 Chevy Equinox Towing Capacity: Haul More, Worry Less
Towing might not be the first thing that comes to mind for a compact SUV, but the 2026 Chevy Equinox towing capacity proves it’s no slouch for light-duty jobs. Rated at a maximum of 1,500 pounds when properly equipped with all-wheel drive, this figure opens doors to weekend escapes like pulling a small fishing boat or a pair of ATVs. Front-wheel-drive models cap out at 800 pounds, which still handles utility trailers or jet skis with ease.
What does “properly equipped” mean? You’ll want the optional trailering package (expected mid-model year), which includes a hitch receiver and wiring harness for about $775. This setup not only boosts your limit but adds peace of mind with integrated brake control. In real-world terms, imagine loading up two snowmobiles for a winter getaway— the Equinox manages it without straining, thanks to its balanced chassis and torque vectoring in AWD.
Practical Towing Tips for Equinox Owners
- Weight Distribution Matters: Always use a hitch with at least a 2-inch ball and tongue weight around 10-15% of your total load to avoid sway.
- Check Payload Too: The Equinox’s payload hovers around 1,200-1,400 pounds, so factor in passengers and cargo before maxing out the trailer.
- Tech Assist: Pair towing with the standard rearview camera and available rear park assist for safer hitching.
Compared to rivals, the Equinox holds its own against the Honda CR-V (1,500 lbs) but trails the Ford Escape (up to 3,500 lbs). If heavy hauling is your jam, look elsewhere—but for most, this capacity strikes a sweet spot between fun and frugality.
Ground Clearance in the 2026 Chevy Equinox: Clearing the Path to Adventure
When it comes to conquering curbs, potholes, or light snow, 2026 Chevy Equinox ground clearance delivers just enough elevation without tipping into truck territory. Most trims sit at 7.6 inches, providing solid clearance for daily hurdles like speed bumps or gravel driveways. Opt for the Activ trim, and you get a slight bump to 8.0 inches with its off-road tuned suspension and all-terrain tires, ideal for forest service roads or beach access points.
This isn’t a hardcore off-roader—the Equinox shines in “soft-roading” scenarios, like navigating campgrounds or unplowed neighborhood streets after a storm. The AWD system shines here, distributing power to keep you planted on slippery inclines. For context, that’s competitive with the Toyota RAV4’s 8.6 inches but more approachable than the Subaru Forester’s 8.7 inches for urban parking.
Why Ground Clearance Counts: Real-Life Examples
- Winter Warriors: In snowy Midwest winters, 7.6 inches means fewer belly scrapes on piled drifts compared to sedans.
- Family Outings: Load up for a tailgate party? The height eases loading strollers or coolers without stooping too low.
- Maintenance Hack: Regular underbody washes prevent rust buildup, preserving that clearance for years.
Pro tip: If you’re in a flood-prone area, the Equinox’s wading depth (unofficially around 20 inches) adds extra reassurance—just avoid deep water to protect the electronics.
Trim Levels and How They Affect Towing and Clearance
The 2026 Chevy Equinox lineup—LT, Activ, and RS—lets you tailor capabilities to your needs without overcomplicating choices. All start with FWD and the 1.5L engine, but AWD unlocks full towing potential.
- LT (Starting at $29,995): Everyday essential with 7.6 inches clearance and up to 800 lbs towing (FWD). Add AWD for 1,500 lbs.
- Activ ($33,195): Adventure-ready with 8.0 inches clearance, all-terrain tires, and standard AWD for max towing. Perfect for light trails.
- RS ($34,595): Sporty edge with 7.6 inches clearance, 19-inch wheels, and AWD towing at 1,500 lbs. Blacked-out accents for style points.
Across the board, you’ll get over 15 standard safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist, plus an 11.3-inch touchscreen with Google built-in.
Trim Comparison Table: Towing and Clearance Focus
| Trim | Starting Price | Ground Clearance | Max Towing (AWD) | Key Capability Boost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LT | $29,995 | 7.6 inches | 1,500 lbs | Efficient baseline for commutes |
| Activ | $33,195 | 8.0 inches | 1,500 lbs | Off-road tires for gravel/snow |
| RS | $34,595 | 7.6 inches | 1,500 lbs | Sport suspension for agile handling |
Whichever you pick, the Equinox’s 63.5 cubic feet of max cargo space complements these specs for gear-hauling versatility.
Wrapping It Up: Why the 2026 Chevy Equinox Hits the Mark
The 2026 Chevy Equinox isn’t chasing headlines with extreme specs—it’s delivering reliable, no-fuss capability that fits real life. With a towing capacity up to 1,500 pounds and ground clearance from 7.6 to 8.0 inches, it empowers you to tow that weekend trailer or clear winter slush without second-guessing. Add in its tech-savvy interior, efficient engine, and value-packed trims, and you’ve got a compact SUV that’s as engaging for car buffs as it is essential for families. Whether you’re a daily driver dreaming of dirt roads or a parent packing for soccer tournaments, the Equinox proves small can be mighty.
Key Points Summary Table
| Feature | Details | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Max Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs (AWD); 800 lbs (FWD) | Handles small trailers/ATVs easily |
| Ground Clearance | 7.6–8.0 inches (trim-dependent) | Clears potholes, snow, light trails |
| Engine Power | 175 hp / 184–203 lb-ft torque | Balanced for efficiency and pep |
| Fuel Economy (FWD) | 26/31 mpg city/hwy | Keeps costs low on long hauls |
| Cargo Space | 29.8–63.5 cu ft | Versatile for gear and passengers |
| Starting Price | $29,995 (LT trim) | Affordable entry into capability |
