2026 Chevy Equinox vs Chevy Trax: Which SUV is Right for You?

When it comes to finding the perfect compact SUV that balances style, efficiency, and value, Chevrolet offers two compelling options in the 2026 lineup: the Equinox and the Trax. At Lexington Park Chevy Buick GMC, we understand that choosing between these two exceptional vehicles can be challenging. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision that perfectly matches your lifestyle and budget.

Both the 2026 Equinox and Trax represent Chevrolet’s commitment to delivering modern, tech-forward SUVs that don’t compromise on practicality. Whether you’re a growing family needing extra space or a urban commuter seeking efficiency and style, one of these vehicles is designed with you in mind.

Overview: Two Different Approaches to the Same Goal

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox and Trax occupy similar territory in the competitive compact SUV segment, but they each bring distinct personalities to the table. The Equinox serves as Chevrolet’s mid-size compact offering, providing more power and space for families who need extra room without stepping up to a full-size SUV. Meanwhile, the Trax focuses on maximizing value and efficiency in a smaller, more urban-friendly package.

Key Differences at a Glance:

Category	2026 Equinox	2026 Trax
Engine	1.5L Turbo (175 HP)	1.2L Turbo (137 HP)
Seating	5 passengers	5 passengers
Drive Options	FWD/AWD Available	FWD Only
Fuel Economy	26-28 MPG	30 MPG Combined
Best For	Families, Weekend Adventures	Urban Commuting, Budget-Conscious Buyers

*Starting prices are estimates and subject to change. Contact Lexington Park Chevy Buick GMC for current pricing.

Performance and Powertrain: Power When You Need It

2026 Chevrolet Equinox Performance

The 2026 Equinox delivers confidence-inspiring performance with its standard 1.5L Turbo engine producing 175 horsepower, complemented by features like the standard Drive Mode Selector for enhanced capability. This powertrain strikes an excellent balance between responsive acceleration and fuel efficiency, making it ideal for both daily commuting and weekend getaways.

Equinox Performance Highlights:

• 175 horsepower and robust torque delivery
• Available all-wheel drive for enhanced traction
• EPA-estimated 26 mpg city/28 mpg highway (FWD) and 24 mpg city/29 mpg highway (AWD)
• Drive Mode Selector for optimized performance in various conditions

2026 Chevrolet Trax Performance

The 2026 Trax is equipped with a turbocharged 1.2-liter I-3 engine developing 137 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. While it may have less horsepower than the Equinox, the Trax’s lighter weight and efficient engine design deliver surprisingly engaging performance, especially in city driving scenarios.

Trax Performance Highlights:

• 137 horsepower with efficient turbo-three engine
• EPA-estimated 30 MPG combined fuel economy for excellent efficiency
• Six-speed automatic transmission optimized for smooth operation
• Front-wheel drive focused on maximizing fuel economy

Interior Space and Comfort: Room for Life

Both vehicles offer five-passenger seating in a 2-3 configuration with front bucket seats and a rear 60/40 split-bench seat, but the Equinox provides notably more interior volume and cargo capacity.

Equinox Interior Advantages

The 2026 Equinox shines when it comes to passenger and cargo space. Its larger dimensions translate to more shoulder room, legroom, and cargo capacity behind the rear seats. The Equinox is particularly well-suited for families who regularly transport multiple passengers or need to carry larger items like sports equipment or luggage for extended trips.

Interior Features:

• Spacious cabin with premium materials
• Generous cargo space with flexible loading options
• Available hands-free AutoSense Power Liftgate for convenience
• Multiple storage compartments throughout the cabin

Trax Interior Advantages

Don’t let the Trax’s smaller size fool you – this compact SUV maximizes every inch of interior space with clever design and thoughtful storage solutions. The Trax excels in urban environments where parking space is at a premium, yet it still provides comfortable seating for five adults.

Interior Features:

• Efficiently designed cabin that feels larger than its footprint
• Easy-to-reach controls and user-friendly layout
• Smart storage solutions throughout
• Comfortable seating for daily commuting

Technology and Infotainment: Stay Connected

Both the Equinox and Trax come loaded with Chevrolet’s latest technology offerings, ensuring you stay connected and entertained on every journey.

Advanced Display Technology

The Equinox features an impressive 11.3-inch diagonal infotainment touch-screen and an 11-inch diagonal Driver Information Centre, making it easier to interact with key vehicle information and navigation. This dual-screen setup provides a premium feel and exceptional functionality.

The Trax, while featuring a slightly smaller infotainment screen, still delivers full smartphone integration and essential connectivity features that modern drivers expect.

Standard Technology Features (Both Models):

• Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility
• Wi-Fi hotspot capability
• USB ports for device charging
• Bluetooth® wireless technology
• Available navigation system

Safety and Driver Assistance: Peace of Mind Standard

Safety is very important to Chevrolet, and both vehicles come equipped with comprehensive safety features and driver assistance technologies designed to help protect you and your passengers.

Chevrolet Safety Assist

Both the Equinox and Trax include Chevrolet Safety Assist as standard equipment, providing essential safety technologies at no additional cost:

• Automatic Emergency Braking
• Forward Collision Alert
• Front Pedestrian Braking
• Following Distance Indicator
• IntelliBeam automatic high beam control
• Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning

Additional Safety Features

The Equinox and Trax both offer available advanced safety features such as:

• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• Safety Alert Seat (Equinox)
• HD Rear Vision Camera

Trim Levels and Customization

2026 Equinox Trim Levels

The Equinox offers multiple trim levels to suit different preferences and budgets:

• LS: Value-focused base trim with essential features
• LT: Popular mid-level trim with enhanced comfort and technology
• ACTIV: Adventure-ready styling with rugged design elements
• RS: Sport-tuned suspension and bold styling cues

2026 Trax Trim Levels

The Trax lineup starts with the LS model at $22,995 and can run up to $26,695, offering excellent value across the range:

• LS: Well-equipped base model with impressive standard features
• LT: Enhanced technology and convenience features
• ACTIV: Adventure-inspired styling and capability features

Cargo and Utility: Hauling What Matters

When it comes to carrying your gear, both vehicles offer practical solutions, but the Equinox provides significantly more cargo space due to its larger overall dimensions.

Cargo Capacity Comparison

Feature	2026 Equinox	2026 Trax
Cargo Space (Rear Seats Up)	~30+ cubic feet*	~25+ cubic feet*
Maximum Cargo Space	~60+ cubic feet*	~50+ cubic feet*
Loading Height	Comfortable SUV height	Easy-access height
Cargo Features	Power liftgate available	Manual liftgate

*Exact specifications may vary by trim level. Contact us for precise measurements.

Schedule Your Test Drive Today

The best way to decide between the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox and Trax is to experience them firsthand. We invite you to visit our showroom to see both vehicles up close, explore their features, and take them for a test drive.

Contact Lexington Park Chevy Buick GMC:

• Visit our showroom to see our complete inventory
• Schedule back-to-back test drives to compare both SUVs
• Speak with our knowledgeable sales team about financing options
• Explore available incentives and special offers

Both the 2026 Equinox and Trax represent Chevrolet’s commitment to delivering quality, value, and innovation in the competitive SUV market. Whether you choose the spacious and capable Equinox or the efficient and value-packed Trax, you’ll be driving home in a vehicle designed to enhance your daily life.Contact us or Visit us today and discover which of these outstanding SUVs is the perfect fit for your adventures ahead.

Tags: Chevy Equinox 150, Chevy Trax
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