How Chevy Outpaces Rivals Like the CR-V and RAV4
The compact SUV category is full of contenders, but the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox stands out for its blend of style, technology, and value. When compared to the 2026 Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the Equinox delivers more confidence behind the wheel, stronger everyday usability, and a price that's hard to ignore. At Handy Chevrolet, here's why the new Equinox comes out on top.
Interior
The 2026 Equinox features a redesigned cabin anchored by a wide 11.3-inch touchscreen. Premium materials and generous rear legroom create a comfortable atmosphere for daily commutes and longer drives. The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 offer competitive interiors, but their smaller standard screens and tighter rear seats put them a step behind the Equinox.
Exterior
Sleek lines, LED lighting, and a bold front fascia give the 2026 Equinox a modern presence. The RAV4 emphasizes ruggedness, while the CR-V keeps a conservative shape, but neither matches the Equinox's balance of refinement and curb appeal.
Features
Standard features on the Equinox include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, push-button start, and Chevy Safety Assist. Honda and Toyota reserve many of these for higher trims, forcing buyers to spend more for the same convenience.
Safety
Chevy Safety Assist includes forward collision alert, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking as standard on every Equinox. While CR-V and RAV4 offer similar safety suites, Chevy builds confidence into every trim, not just the premium ones.
Towing and Ground Clearance
The Equinox can tow up to 1,500 pounds and provides 7.9 inches of ground clearance, making it well-suited for weekend gear and Vermont winters. The RAV4 edges out the Equinox on towing in specific trims, but the Chevy delivers a quieter and smoother ride overall.
Horsepower and Engine
Under the hood, the Equinox comes standard with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 175 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. The Honda CR-V makes 190 horsepower but just 179 pound-feet of torque, leaving it less responsive in hilly terrain. The Toyota RAV4 delivers 203 horsepower, yet its naturally aspirated setup feels noisier and less refined than the Equinox's turbocharged performance.
MPG
The 2026 Equinox offers an estimated 26 miles per gallon in the city and 28 miles per gallon on the highway. The CR-V is slightly higher at 28 city and 34 highway, while the RAV4 is rated at 27 city and 35 highway. Even so, the Equinox holds its ground by offering stronger low-end torque and smoother highway passing power, proving efficiency isn't the only factor worth measuring.
Tech
The 11.3-inch infotainment display with Google built-in makes the Equinox one of the most advanced SUVs in its class. Wireless updates keep features fresh, while intuitive voice control makes daily driving easier. CR-V's 9-inch screen and RAV4's standard 8-inch unit lag behind in both size and functionality.
Pricing
Starting at $28,600, the Equinox undercuts many rivals while offering more standard technology and safety features. Both the CR-V and RAV4 begin higher in price, and require stepping up trims to match what comes standard on Chevy's compact SUV.
Reserve at Handy Chevrolet
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox offers the right balance of performance, technology, and value. With more torque than the CR-V, more advanced tech than the RAV4, and pricing that makes sense, it's the compact SUV to beat. Reserve yours today at Handy Chevrolet and see why the Equinox continues to lead the pack.
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Saint Albans, VT 05478
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