5 Questions About the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT Answered

Renewed Completely for the 2025 model year, the Chevrolet Equinox returns for 2026 without any major changes.

This means that the compact SUV is still offered in three trim levels, all powered by a 1,5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that pairs with a continuously variable transmission in front wheel drive models and an 8-speed automatic in all-wheel drive models.

More specifically, the LT grade is the entry-level version of the Equinox, which starts at $37,743.

Key Facts about the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT is a compact, gasoline-powered SUV that was the brand’s best-selling model in the United States last year, apart from the Silverado pickup.

While they share a name, the Equinox and Equinox EV are not mechanically related, but they are positionned similarly in the lineup in terms of size and pricing.

The gas-powered Equinox does share its architecture with other models, however, namely the GMC Terrain and the Buick Envision.

The GMC Terrain is essentially a mechanical twin of the Equinox, but the Envision is a bit more unique and features a different powertrain altogether.

Here are the answers to five questions you might be asking about the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox and its LT trim level:

1- What are the Main Advantages of the 2026 Equinox over its competition?

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox stands out in several ways in its segment, notably thanks to its design, both inside and outside. Indeed, while the previous generation tended to blend into the background, the new Equinox is a genuinely good-looking compact SUV. This is mostly due to its slightly aggressive and muscular stance, courtesy of a much more squared off design than before. Inside, the 2026 Equinox relies upon the same layout as the brand’s other models, which means two large screens with attractive graphics integrated into a single curved panel atop the dashboard and a row of physical buttons for the climate control system. In addition, the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox proves quite comfortable out on the road, without having to compromise on handling, which remains secure even at high speeds. The Equinox also bests some of its competitors in terms of value, with a long list of standard and available equipment offered at reasonable prices.

2- What are its main drawbacks?

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox is mostly held back by its powertrain. Indeed, the only engine available in this compact SUV is a 1.5 L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 175 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque with front wheel drive or 203 lb-ft of torque with all-wheel drive. While this output is sufficient for daily driving needs, this powertrain lacks in refinement compared to most of its rivals. Indeed, the engine generates quite a lot of vibrations under acceleration and its soundtrack is not particularly pleasant to the ear. The 8-speed transmission also occasionally shifts quite harshly when cold and the all-wheel drive system has to be activated manually, which can catch you off guard during winter. This lack of refinement is not necessarily a deal breaker, but the competition does better in this aspect, as well as power and efficiency. Adding a hybrid powertrain to the current Equinox could take care of its largest drawbacks and make it much more competitive.

3- How does the LT compare to the RS and Activ trim levels?

Like other Chevrolet models, the 2026 Equinox features a somewhat unconventional trim and pricing structure. Indeed, despite the LT technically being the entry-level model, my fully optioned out tester carried a sticker price of $46,847, which is just about the same as an RS grade Equinox I drove a year ago. This is because Chevrolet decided to structure its lineup around three design packages rather than by equipment. Therefore, customers can choose the trim level they think looks best and then add the features they want. Thus, the LT trim level can be equipped with almost everything you can find the RS and Activ, with the exception of heated rear seats, ventilated front seats, a power passenger seat, and memory settings for the driving position. In terms of looks, the LT is the more conventional of the three, while the RS is meant to be more dynamic and the Activ more robust.

4- Is the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT fuel Efficient?

Despite its unremarkable power output and performance levels, the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox is not particularly fuel efficient. Indeed, the small engine is always working hard to keep the pace, which results in fuel consumption figures that are mid-pack at best, with an official average of 8.9 L/100 km in mixed driving, according to Natural Resources Canada. In the real world, I averaged 9.2 L/100 km despite mostly highway and rural driving, which is higher than with most competing vehicles I tested. As mentioned previously, the Equinox lacks a hybrid powertrain that could make it more competitive, both at the pump and in terms of refinement and driving experience. Off course, Chevrolet will happily sell you an all-electric Equinox EV if you want a more efficient compact SUV, but not everyone is ready to switch to an EV quite yet.

5- Is the 2026 Equinox Practical?

Yes, this is where the 2026 Equinox truly shines. Indeed, the boxy design of the current generation and great packaging translate to generous interior dimensions for both passengers and cargo. In addition, the floor is completely flat at the rear, which is very rare outside of electric vehicles, especially when all-wheel drive is present. Furthermore, the center console is cleverly designed, with ample storage spaces in two distinct tiers and easy access to the wireless phone charger. Like other compact SUVs in the General Motors lineup, the Equinox is among the easiest vehicles to enter and exit thanks to a narrow sill and an almost perfect seat height, which can be an important factor if you have mobility issues. Visibility is also good all the way around, thanks again to the Equinox’s boxy shape. When also considering features such as automatic heated front seats and steering wheel, an easy-to-use infotainment system, a good turning circle, and a convenient column-mounted electronic shifter, the Equinox is easy to live with.

Conclusion

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox, including its LT trim level, is a compact SUV that is full of potential. It features attractive design inside and out, it is comfortable, highly practical, well equipped, well priced, and intelligently conceived. Unfortunately, the whole package is held back by an outdated powertrain that is less powerful, less efficient, and less refined than pretty much everything the competition has to offer. With a modern engine and transmission pairing, especially with some electrification thrown in the mix, the current Equinox would have everything it needs to be one of the segment leaders.