First Look at the 2026 Chevy Equinox: Trim Level Options

The 2026 Chevy Equinox arrives with the sort of quiet, considered updates that suggest Chevrolet knows exactly who this SUV is for. There’s no reinvention here—no need for one—but there is a sharpened sense of purpose. A new Polar White exterior color freshens the palette, a Drive Mode Selector Dial becomes standard across the lineup, and the trim strategy remains clean and intentional. For drivers around Manchester, IA, the Equinox continues to sit neatly at the intersection of practicality, comfort, and just enough personality.

What’s New for the 2026 Equinox

The updates for 2026 are evolutionary, not dramatic, and that’s very much the point. Polar White adds a crisp, modern look that suits the Equinox’s tidy proportions, while the now-standard Drive Mode Selector allows quick adaptation to changing conditions—Normal for daily driving, Tow/Haul for added confidence with a trailer, and Snow/Ice for Midwest winters. These refinements build on an already well-rounded package rather than distracting from it.

Breaking Down the 2026 Chevy Equinox Trim Levels

Chevrolet keeps things refreshingly straightforward with three trims: LT, RS, and ACTIV. Each speaks to a different kind of driver, without blurring the lines between them.

LT: The Smart All-Rounder

The LT trim is the foundation of the Equinox lineup, and it wears that role well. Available 17-inch aluminum wheels on AWD models, a spacious cabin, and up to 63.5 cu. ft. of cargo volume with the rear seats folded make it an easy fit for everyday life. It’s calm, sensible, and quietly competent—exactly what many Equinox buyers want.

RS: Sportier, Sharper, More Expressive

The RS trim leans into visual drama. Dark exterior accents, available two-tone color combinations like Radiant Red Tintcoat with a Mosaic Black Metallic roof, and standard 19-inch wheels give it a more assertive stance. Optional 20-inch wheels push that look further. It’s the Equinox with a bit more attitude, aimed at drivers who want their SUV to feel less anonymous without sacrificing usability.

ACTIV: Built for the Long Way Around

ACTIV is the most characterful of the trio. With standard all-terrain tires, slightly increased ride height, and distinctive color pairings such as Cacti Green with a contrasting Summit White roof, it’s clearly intended for dirt roads, trailheads, and muddy boots. The interior reflects that mission too, with tougher materials designed to handle outdoor gear and real use.

Core Features Across the Lineup

Every 2026 Chevy Equinox is powered by a 1.5L turbocharged engine producing 175 hp and 203 lbs.-ft. of torque in FWD configurations. It’s a well-judged setup—responsive enough around town, relaxed on the highway, and efficient in daily use. Standard safety technology includes Automatic Emergency Braking and Lane Keep Assist, reinforcing the Equinox’s role as a dependable family and commuter SUV.

See the 2026 Equinox in Manchester, IA

If the 2026 Chevy Equinox sounds like the kind of SUV that fits your life, it’s worth seeing in person. Visit Bob Stephen Motors to explore the LT, RS, and ACTIV trims up close. From subtle updates to trim-specific personality, the latest Equinox proves that thoughtful evolution still counts for a great deal.

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