Chevy’s 2026 Equinox EV Falls Short Despite Strong Range
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV sits in an awkward spot in the market, borrowing a name from its gas-powered sibling while sharing little beyond a badge. Officially classified as a compact crossover SUV at 190 inches long, the Equinox EV feels more like a tall wagon or CUV than a true off-road-ready SUV. It promises everyday usability with over 300 miles of range, a quiet cabin, and smooth power delivery, but falls short in key areas like tech integration and driving engagement.
Understated Design and Daily Practicality
Chevrolet has made efforts to distinguish the electric Equinox from its internal combustion counterpart, leaning into an on-road-focused identity rather than marketing it as a rugged off-roader. The styling avoids aggressive touches, presenting a clean profile that stands out without being polarizing. However, the tilt-out door handles, while aerodynamically motivated, introduce real-world frustrations, particularly in icy or snowy conditions when they fail to deploy reliably.
Inside, the cabin prioritizes space and comfort over premium materials. The massive 17.7-inch touchscreen dominates the dashboard, running a Google-based system that includes built-in maps and voice assistance. Despite its size and responsiveness, the lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto feels like a major oversight in 2026, forcing users to rely on Bluetooth for audio streaming and Google Maps for navigation. Material choices lean heavily on black plastic, reinforcing a utilitarian vibe over luxury appeal.
Specs and Value Considerations
The Equinox EV LT 2 starts at $41,795, with the as-tested model climbing to $52,820. That higher price point puts it in contention with other electric crossovers offering faster charging, more engaging drive trends, or better-standard tech features. Despite strong range ratings at 319 miles, the base model’s 220-horsepower output feels underwhelming for a vehicle tipping the scales near 5,000 pounds.
Standard features like heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and wireless charging add value to the LT 2 trim, though similar amenities appear as standard equipment in competing models. Super Cruise, GM’s semi-autonomous driving system, remains a standout feature, delivering reliable hands-free performance on mapped roads. Yet the absence of CarPlay and the finicky proximity key system detract from an otherwise solid ownership experience, especially at raised trim levels.
Charging Capabilities and Battery Performance
The front-wheel-drive Equinox EV tested features an 85 kWh battery pack with support for 150 kW DC fast charging. This allows the vehicle to regain a significant amount of range in a short window, though it trails behind some competitors that support even higher charging rates.
Trim Levels and Equipment Details
The base model starts at $41,795, making it accessible among electric crossovers in its segment. Additional upgrades include advanced camera systems and optional packages like the panoramic sunroof priced at $1,500.
2026 Model Year Updates and Market Positioning
For the 2026 model year, the Chevrolet Equinox EV sees minimal changes following its debut in 2024. GM has refined some packaging elements and adjusted available exterior color options, but the overall design and feature set remain largely consistent with previous model years. The vehicle continues to distinguish itself from its gas-powered counterpart by adopting a more on-road-focused identity, avoiding off-road-oriented trims that are instead offered on the conventional Equinox lineup.
