2026 Equinox Trims – Explore Features Differences & Pricing
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox comes in several distinct trim levels—LT, Activ, and RS—each offering unique features for different lifestyles. Whether you want a stylish city cruiser, a rugged option for outdoor adventures, or something sporty for daily drives, there’s an Equinox for you. Below, we explore what makes each trim special, what upgrades you get as you move up, and how they differ in price and features.
LT (Front-Wheel-Drive Base)
The LT trim is the entry point for the 2026 Equinox, offering fundamental equipment and value. It uses a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder gasoline engine with front‐wheel drive and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Standard features include LED headlights and taillights, an 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and the Chevy Safety Assist suite (which includes forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and IntelliBeam auto high beams). The 2026 update makes drive mode selector standard on all trims, so the LT now gets that feature too. Pricing for the LT FWD in Canada starts in the low $30,000s*, making it the most affordable way to get into a new Equinox with modern technology and safety.
ACTIV
The Activ trim gives a more rugged and outdoorsy style. It builds on the LT features by including all-terrain tires and a suspension tuned for rough-surface control, plus rugged exterior cues like unique front fascia, roof rails, and wheel styles. Inside, Activ typically includes upgraded upholstery such as sueded microfiber, features like a hands-free power liftgate, and possibly dual-zone climate control. These additions make it more capable off pavement and more convenient when carrying cargo or gear. Pricing for Activ trims starts higher than LT and AWD LT owing to these specialized features and exterior upgrades.
RS
The RS trim leans toward sporty design. RS includes distinctive styling elements like a unique grille and front fascia, 19-inch machined-face aluminum wheels, blacked-out badging, and interior accent stitching exclusive to RS (such as Torch Red or Santorini Blue interior stitching). Besides visual upgrades, RS commonly includes either AWD or FWD options, putting it in competition with Activ in terms of price, depending on drivetrain choice. Some comfort and tech features in RS might be optional or match Activ in availability, but RS’s identity is more on-road sportiness over rugged utility.
Trim Comparison Chart
Here’s a side-by-side view of how the trims differ in pricing and key upgrades:
| Trim Type | Approximate MSRP (Canada)* | Drivetrain | Unique Exterior / Wheel Features | Upholstery / Interior Upgrades | Additional Convenience Features |
| LT (FWD) | $28,600 | Front-Wheel Drive | Standard LT grille, 17-inch aluminum wheels | Cloth / Evotex optional upholstery | Basic infotainment (wireless CarPlay/Android Auto), LT gets drive-mode selector |
| Activ | $33,000 | FWD or AWD options | Rugged styling: roof rails, all-terrain tires, unique fascia | S ueded/microfiber upholstery standard | Power liftgate, dual-zone climate control, rough road control features |
| RS | $33,000+ | FWD or AWD | Sporty elements: 19-inch wheels, blacked trim, RS grille | Accent stitching, sport trim touches | Similar comfort to Activ; sport styling more prominent |
Performance & Fuel Economy
A 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine powers all 2026 Equinox trims. FWD versions use a CVT transmission, while AWD trims use an eight-speed automatic. FWD models generate about 175 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, whereas AWD versions increase torque to 203 lb-ft. Fuel consumption estimates for AWD models run roughly higher due to drivetrain drag in winter conditions. In combined driving, expect around 8.1-9.2 L/100 km for city/AWD driving in Ontario winter roads. The drive mode selector added across all trims improves adaptability in different conditions.
Reserve Your Favourite 2026 Chevrolet Equinox at Myers Chevrolet Buick GMC
Myers Chevrolet Buick GMC in Ottawa invites you to reserve the 2026 Equinox that matches your style. Whether you want the value of LT, the grip of AWD, the rugged look of Activ, or the sport styling of RS—we can help you find one with the features and pricing that suit your needs.
*All pricing is based on Ontario MSRP and does not include taxes and fees. Dealer pricing may differ. Prices are subject to change at any time without notice.
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