First Look: 2026 Chevrolet Equinox Gets a Rugged Redesign and Tech Overhaul

Overview — Chevrolet has officially unveiled the fourth-generation 2026 Equinox, and it represents the most significant transformation in the model's history. Moving away from its previously soft, car-like styling, the new Equinox adopts a bold, muscular, and truck-inspired design that aligns it more closely with Chevy's larger SUVs. Coupled with a complete interior technology overhaul and a new adventure-focused trim lineup, this redesign is a critical move to bolster its position as one of America's best-selling compact SUVs.

A Bolder, Broader Stance

The new Equinox's exterior is defined by its strong, upright presence. Drawing clear design inspiration from the larger Chevrolet Traverse, it features a blunt front end, squared-off wheel arches, and a distinctive C-pillar treatment that creates a "shark fin" effect. The entire vehicle is now 2.3 inches wider than its predecessor, which not only provides more interior space but also gives it a more planted and confident stance on the road. The redesign successfully injects a dose of ruggedness into a segment often criticized for generic styling.

Meet the New Lineup: ACTIV and RS

For 2026, Chevrolet has revamped the Equinox trim strategy to offer more distinct personalities, dropping the Premier trim in favor of two new range-toppers alongside a well-equipped LT base model.

• ACTIV: This new trim caters to the growing demand for off-road aesthetics. The ACTIV model features a unique front fascia designed for improved approach angles, 17-inch machined-face aluminum wheels with all-terrain tires, a contrasting white roof option, and blacked-out badging. The interior is finished in a stylish Maple Sugar and Black theme with durable Evotex and microfiber suede surfaces.
• RS: For a sportier, street-focused look, the RS trim returns with more aggressive styling. It includes a unique grille, blacked-out emblems and mirrors, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, red interior stitching, and standard 19-inch wheels with an option for 20-inch alloys.

A Modern, Screen-Centric Cabin

The interior of the 2026 Equinox is completely transformed, centered around a new driver-oriented digital cockpit. A standard 11.0-inch configurable driver information center sits alongside a new 11.3-inch diagonal infotainment touchscreen, which is 30% larger than the previous generation's largest screen. The system features Google Built-in, providing seamless access to Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Play Store.

In a move praised by many, designers kept physical buttons and knobs for essential climate controls, improving usability while driving. A new column-mounted electronic transmission shifter frees up valuable storage space in the center console, which now features a more ergonomic and spacious layout.

Powertrain and Safety

Under the hood, the 2026 Equinox is powered by a familiar 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 175 horsepower. However, the transmission pairing has been updated. Front-wheel-drive (FWD) models are now equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while all-wheel-drive (AWD) models benefit from a smoother and more responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. The AWD system is available on all trims.

Every Equinox will come standard with Chevy Safety Assist, a suite of advanced safety features that includes Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and IntelliBeam automatic high beams.

Outlook

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox is a comprehensive and well-executed redesign that directly addresses the evolving tastes of compact SUV buyers. By offering more distinct and adventurous styling, a thoroughly modern digital interior, and a choice of compelling trim personalities, Chevy has positioned its best-seller to not only retain its loyal customer base but also attract a new generation of buyers seeking more than just basic transportation. It's a confident and rugged evolution that is set to make a major impact in one of the market's most competitive segments.

Reporter: Auto Specialist Advice

Information Sources: Chevrolet Pressroom, Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Autoblog, GM Authority.
Image Suggestions: Chevrolet Media website for a full gallery of high-resolution images of all trims, interior shots, and feature highlights.