If you're shopping for a compact SUV in Allegan, you've probably noticed Chevrolet is selling two model years of the Equinox right now: the 2026 and the 2027. They look almost the same from the outside, but there are a few real differences that matter, especially if you're comparing tech, price, or day-to-day comfort for your family. Here's a simple, side-by-side look at both.
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What's Actually Different Between the 2026 and 2027 Chevy Equinox?
The 2027 Chevrolet Equinox carries the same engine and body as the 2026, but Chevrolet made the standard tech better across every trim. Every 2027 model now comes with the larger touchscreen, a smoother-shifting transmission on front-wheel-drive versions, and a few driver-assist features that used to be optional. The 2026 model is still a smart buy, and it's typically priced lower.
Both years use the same 1.5-liter turbocharged engine making 175 horsepower, and both seat five people comfortably. The changes for 2027 are mostly about technology and refinement rather than a full redesign.
Which Trims Are Available on the 2026 and 2027 Chevrolet Equinox?
Both model years come in the same three trims: LT, RS, and ACTIV. Here's how they generally compare on price. Chevrolet updates pricing throughout the year, so treat these as a starting point.
| Trim | 2026 Starting Price | 2027 Starting Price |
| LT | Starting around ~$29,000 | Starting around ~$32,995 |
| RS | Starting around ~$33,600 | Starting around ~$37,895 |
| ACTIV | Starting around ~$33,600 | Starting around ~$37,895 |
Prices exclude destination fees, taxes, title, and dealer fees. Contact Baker Chevrolet Allegan for current pricing and available offers.
Is the 2027 Chevy Equinox's Bigger Screen Worth the Upgrade?
On the 2026 Equinox, the larger 11.3-inch touchscreen is reserved for the RS and ACTIV trims, while the LT gets a smaller 8-inch screen. On the 2027 Equinox, every trim, including the LT, gets the bigger 11.3-inch touchscreen along with an 11-inch digital driver display. If you want the larger screen without stepping up to a higher trim, the 2027 LT gets you there.
Both years include wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto, so you can leave the charging cable at home either way.
Does the 2027 Chevy Equinox Drive Smoother Than the 2026?
Front-wheel-drive 2027 Equinox models now use the same 8-speed automatic transmission as the all-wheel-drive versions, which is a change from the 2026 model. Owners and reviewers generally describe this as a smoother-shifting setup. All-wheel-drive versions of both years already used the 8-speed automatic, so this change mainly benefits front-wheel-drive shoppers.
Is the 2026 or 2027 Chevy Equinox Better for a Family?
Good news: both model years work well for family life, because the cabin and cargo space are the same. The Chevrolet Equinox is a great fit for a small family, whether you go with the 2026 or the 2027.
- The back seat comfortably fits two standard car seats side by side, with room left over for a third passenger.
- You get roughly 63 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down, enough for a stroller, sports gear, and a grocery run in the same trip.
- Rear legroom is generous for this size of SUV, which helps if you have a growing kid who needs more space every year.
- Every trim on both years comes with a strong list of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and rear parking sensors, which matters for parents doing school drop-off and pickup around Allegan.
If your family drives a lot of gravel roads or heads out to the lake often, the ACTIV trim's all-terrain tires and higher ride height are worth a look on either model year.
Should You Buy the 2026 or Wait for the 2027 Chevy Equinox?
It depends on what matters most to you.
- Choose the 2026 Equinox if: you want the lowest starting price and don't need the larger touchscreen on the LT trim.
- Choose the 2027 Equinox if: you want the newest technology, the smoother-shifting transmission on a front-wheel-drive model, and don't mind paying a bit more.
Either way, you're getting a well-built, family-friendly compact SUV backed by Chevrolet's safety features and warranty coverage.
Want to see what's actually on the lot? Browse current inventory at Baker Chevrolet Allegan:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2027 Chevy Equinox a full redesign?
No. The 2027 Chevrolet Equinox is a carryover year with updated standard technology, not a full redesign. The body, engine, and overall size are the same as the 2026 model.
What is the main difference between the 2026 and 2027 Chevy Equinox LT?
The biggest difference is the touchscreen. The 2026 LT comes with an 8-inch screen, while the 2027 LT gets the larger 11.3-inch touchscreen that used to be reserved for the RS and ACTIV trims.
Does the Chevy Equinox fit two car seats?
Yes. The Chevrolet Equinox's back seat comfortably fits two standard car seats side by side on both the 2026 and 2027 model years, with room for a third passenger.
How much cargo space does the Chevy Equinox have?
The Chevrolet Equinox offers roughly 63 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down, which is consistent across both the 2026 and 2027 model years.
Is the 2027 Chevy Equinox more expensive than the 2026?
Generally, yes. The 2027 Chevrolet Equinox starts a few thousand dollars higher than the 2026 model, reflecting the upgraded standard technology. Contact Baker Chevrolet Allegan for current pricing on both model years.
What trims does the Chevy Equinox come in?
Both the 2026 and 2027 Chevrolet Equinox are available in three trims: LT, RS, and ACTIV.
Does the Chevy Equinox come with all-wheel drive?
Yes. All-wheel drive is available on every trim of the Chevrolet Equinox for both the 2026 and 2027 model years, typically for an additional cost over front-wheel drive.