Is the 2026 Chevy Equinox a Good Vehicle?

June 25th, 2026 by Team Chevrolet GMC Of Salisbury

What makes a vehicle “good” in 2026? Well, it depends.

What one driver may consider “good” may be another driver’s worst nightmare come to life–think of the old adage “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” A driver’s preferences and idea of a good vehicle are entirely subjective. However, there are some universal truths that make a vehicle good in 2026.

Long-term affordability, smooth, strong performance, and additional tech and safety features can set the standard for what’s good and what may leave you wanting.

So, is the new Chevy Equinox for 2026 a good vehicle? Let’s find out!

Two_2026_Chevy_Equinox_SUVs

Smooth and Steady Performance & Power

The road to a good vehicle starts with performance and handling, and what better place to start than under the hood?

Every Equinox is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, capable of producing a steady and efficient 175 horsepower. Models are available in all-wheel and front-wheel drive, pairing beautifully with an eight-speed automatic or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), respectively.

Capable of towing a maximum of 1,500 pounds and going from 0 to 60 mph in just 8.6 seconds, the 2026 Equinox moves comfortably through city streets and wide open highways.

As you move forward on your journey, rest assured that stops at the gas station will be few and far between. The front-wheel-drive Equinox is the most fuel-efficient model, with an EPA-estimated range of 26 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. However, the all-wheel-drive model is perfect for those who love long road trips, offering an impressive highway rating of 29 mpg.

The 2026 Chevy Equinox Interior & Tech

There are two key components of a good compact SUV: cargo space and advanced technology. Luckily, the Equinox believes in the “Why not both” philosophy.

Despite its small stature, the Chevy Equinox offers quite a bit of room for everything you need (and everything you don’t)! Offering a maximum cargo volume of 63.5 cubic feet and a hidden storage compartment under the rear cargo floor, you will have no issue hauling your equipment, gear, or luggage while keeping certain items from view.

The Equinox takes convenience and flexibility to a whole other level with the hands-free AutoSense Power Liftgate and folding 60/40 split-bench seat. With these features, you can adjust your Equinox to your cargo’s shapes and sizes, while easily loading up without lifting a finger.

Well, except to lift your belongings into your car, but you know what we mean.

Technology takes center stage inside the new Equinox, offering a perfect balance between new-age displays and old-school buttons and knobs.

All models come equipped with two digital displays on the dashboard: an 11.3-inch infotainment display and an 11-inch digital gauge cluster. The infotainment screen offers Google built-in, featuring Google Maps navigation and access to a Wi-Fi hotspot, while the gauge cluster displays your vehicle’s important information that you can customize to your liking.

Other features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and wireless charging.

A Suite of Standard Safety Features

Getting from point A to point B is a critical component of any vehicle, but in the event of the unexpected, you want to be sure your vehicle has your back.

With over 15 standard safety and driver assistance features in its arsenal, the new Equinox ensures that you are protected wherever life takes you.

Intersection Automatic Emergency Braking can be the difference between a severe collision and a slight fender bender. When your Equinox detects a cross-traffic vehicle, it will apply the brakes, helping to reduce the impact or even avoid a crash at an intersection.

HD Surround Vision has become a fan favorite among drivers by providing digital camera views of the area around your vehicle to help you park and avoid vehicles and objects that might otherwise go unseen.

Additional 2026 Chevy Equinox safety features include:

Front pedestrian braking
Lane keep assist with lane departure warning
Forward collision alert
Following distance indicator
Rear park assist
HD rear vision camera
& more!