Are you interested in a compact SUV that meets all your needs at an affordable price? With its reliability and style, the 2026 Chevy Equinox may fit that bill. Since Chevy made major changes to the 2025 lineup, the new model year is relatively quiet. So, how do its most basic trim, the LT, and its highest trim, the RS, fare against each other? Let's break down the details in this 2026 Chevrolet Equinox trim level comparison.
Key Takeaways
- 2026 Equinox trims cost $30,495 and $35,395, as of October 8, 2025. (The RS and Active have the same price point.)
- The Equinox had a complete redesign in '25, so '26 models will see few changes.
- The '26 Equinox is in our showroom now!
What's New in Pricing and Upgrades for the 2026 Equinox?
Since a major redesign rolled out just last year, the 2026 Equinox doesn’t shake things up much. The big stuff carries over, but there are a few small tweaks worth noting. The Convenience II package on LT models drops the roof rails this year, though black rails are available with the Midnight Edition (you can also tack on the optional sunroof bundle). Trims across the board include a drive mode selector, allowing you to adjust how your Equinox handles depending on the road or weather.
There’s also a small color swap with Polar White Tricoat replacing Iridescent Pearl Tricoat on the RS trim. Pricing stays pretty reasonable, starting at $30,495 for the LT and topping out at $35,395 for the RS. (The Activ has the same price point as the RS.)
How do the Equinox LT vs. RS Trim Features Compare?
The LT trim begins the Equinox lineup, offering plenty of standard features for everyday use. It rides on 17-inch machined-face wheels and includes heated exterior mirrors, a heated steering wheel, and heated front seats. You get automatic high beams, remote start, and a pair of sharp digital displays: an 11-inch instrument cluster and an 11.3-inch touchscreen with built-in Google apps. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, along with 5G Wi-Fi connectivity and Chevy’s programmable Teen Driver settings.
If you want a little more convenience, the LT’s available Convenience Package II adds power adjustments for the driver’s seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, a hands-free power liftgate, a wireless charger, rain-sensing wipers, and even heated wiper rests to keep things clear in the winter. Opting for the Midnight Edition gives the LT a more stylish edge, adding 19-inch wheels, black mirror caps, and roof rails for a darker, sportier look.
The RS trim builds on the LT’s equipment but adds a sportier edge and is more of a city driver than the Activ, which is more terrain-oriented. It comes with 19-inch carbon flash metallic machined-face wheels and high-gloss black accents, along with roof-mounted side rails for extra versatility.
Inside, you’ll find Evotex upholstery, a flat-bottom wrapped steering wheel, and an eight-way power driver’s seat with two-way lumbar support. It also adds convenience features like rain-sensing wipers, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a heated wiper park to keep visibility clear in bad weather. Wireless charging, a hands-free AutoSense power liftgate, and a universal home remote round out the upgrades.
Power and Performance Under the Hood of the 2026 Chevy Equinox
Every 2026 Equinox runs the same 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, cranking out 175 horses. Front-wheel drive models use a CVT for smooth, efficient driving, while all-wheel drive versions get an upgraded eight-speed automatic for better response and control.
The front-wheel drive does better in gas than all-wheel drive models. It gets 26 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. When you do opt for all-wheel drive, those numbers dip to 24 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. When it comes to towing, the Equinox can handle smaller loads with ease, pulling up to 1,500 pounds when equipped with all-wheel drive or 800 pounds with front-wheel drive.
Which Equinox Trim Will You Choose?
No matter which trim you go for, the base LT or the sporty RS, the 2026 Equinox delivers the right mix of comfort and practicality for daily driving. And since it’s already on our lot, you can check it out in person anytime. Come see the new Equinox for yourself—we’ll make sure you find the SUV that meets all your needs!