2026 Chevrolet Equinox in silver driving by the ocean, emphasizing comfort and technology for families near Fort Bragg, NC.

At Powers Swain Chevrolet near Fort Bragg, we meet many drivers who are curious about the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox. Some are long-time Chevy owners looking for their next family vehicle. Others are first-time SUV buyers trying to figure out what sets this model apart in a crowded field of compact crossovers. The questions we hear most often range from practical concerns about space and comfort to more imaginative ones about road trips and daily driving in North Carolina.

To help, we have gathered the ten most common questions about the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox and answered them here in plain language. Think of this as your go-to guide written by someone who has spent years reviewing vehicles and knows how to cut through the marketing noise.

1. What is new in the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox?

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox feels familiar but brings a few fresh touches. A new Polar White paint option adds a clean and modern look to the lineup, and every trim now includes a Drive Mode Selector dial. This feature lets drivers adapt the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox to changing road conditions with a quick twist, offering more confidence on Fayetteville streets or while exploring backroads near Fort Bragg.

2. How comfortable is the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox for everyday driving?

Step inside, and the first thing you notice is space. The front row delivers up to 40 inches of headroom without a sunroof, which means even taller drivers can settle in without crouching. The seats are supportive but not stiff, striking a balance between comfort on short errands and stamina on long highway stretches. Rear passengers are not an afterthought either. With nearly 56 inches of shoulder room and over 50 inches of hip room, the back seat is wide enough for adults to ride comfortably on longer trips.

Chevy has designed the cabin to feel approachable, almost like slipping into a well-worn jacket. Nothing feels cramped or out of reach, and visibility is excellent in all directions.

3. How does the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox handle roads around Fort Bragg and beyond?

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox feels steady and planted. Its front suspension uses a MacPherson® strut setup that absorbs the bumps and dips you find on local streets, while the four-link independent rear suspension helps the SUV stay composed on curvier roads. The steering feels precise without being twitchy, so weaving through parking lots or navigating base traffic is manageable.

If you opt for all-wheel drive, the system adds extra reassurance when rain slicks the pavement or when you want to tackle gravel paths near Jordan Lake. It is not an off-roader, but it holds its own against the daily mix of highways, suburban neighborhoods, and the occasional rural detour.

4. How much cargo can it carry?

Behind the rear seats, you will find almost 30 cubic feet of storage. That is enough for grocery runs, strollers, or several duffel bags without having to puzzle-piece them together. Fold the second row down and the space opens to over 63 cubic feet, making room for camping gear, bicycles, or even a new flat-pack bookshelf.

The rear opening is wide, and the floor is low, which makes loading easier. For anyone juggling errands or planning family trips, the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox feels like a reliable partner.

5. How fuel-efficient is it for a compact SUV?

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox runs on a 1.5 liter turbocharged engine that pairs with a continuously variable transmission for front-wheel drive or an eight-speed automatic for all-wheel drive. While fuel economy always depends on driving style, the setup leans toward efficiency. With fuel tanks sized at 14.8 gallons for FWD and 15.6 gallons for AWD, you can cover solid distances before pulling over for a refill.

This combination is ideal for Fort Bragg drivers who split their time between short commutes and longer highway trips. The SUV feels tuned for balance rather than extremes, giving drivers a smooth middle ground.

6. Can the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox tow a trailer or small boat?

Yes, within reason. Front-wheel-drive models tow up to 800 pounds, while all-wheel-drive versions manage up to 1,500 pounds. That is enough for a light fishing boat, a pair of jet skis, or a small utility trailer. It will not replace a full-size truck, but it adds flexibility for weekend hobbies without requiring a second vehicle.

7. How does it compare to the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4?

The CR-V and RAV4 tend to dominate sales charts, but the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox takes a slightly different approach. It emphasizes simplicity, comfort, and familiar controls. The interior feels straightforward without being bare, which appeals to drivers who want an SUV that does its job without constant tech tutorials.

Cargo space is competitive, ride quality is smooth, and the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox offers trims like the rugged ACTIV for drivers who want a more adventurous look. It may not shout as loudly as its rivals, but it speaks with a confident voice that resonates with buyers who prefer approachable over flashy.

8. What trims are available?

The lineup includes three trims, each with a distinct personality.

  • LT acts as the balanced choice with aluminum wheels and practical features that fit most households.
  • RS sharpens the design with a sportier edge, including available 20 inch wheels and bold styling cues.
  • ACTIV caters to drivers who enjoy a hint of ruggedness, featuring all-terrain tires and exterior touches that make it look ready for weekend getaways.

Choosing a trim is less about picking the right one and more about choosing the one that best reflects your lifestyle.

9. Is it a family-friendly SUV?

Yes. Families will appreciate the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox’s 104 cubic feet of passenger volume, which gives every row enough breathing room. Parents will find that installing car seats is manageable, and kids have space to stretch without arguments over elbow room. The cabin is also quiet, which helps keep long drives calmer.

Safety technology is another highlight. With four-wheel disc brakes, stability control, and available driver-assistance features, the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox is built to keep everyone secure. It does not overwhelm with gadgets but instead focuses on the essentials, which families often find refreshing.

10. Why should I consider it near Fort Bragg NC?

Because this SUV feels designed for everyday life in this region. It balances the needs of commuters, military families, and weekend travelers. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox offers comfort for the daily grind, space for family activities, and capability for light adventures across the Carolinas. It is steady, practical, and versatile, which explains why so many drivers ask about it.

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox brings together comfort, practicality, and capability in a way that feels natural. It handles the balance between weekday commutes and weekend escapes with ease. It offers enough space for growing families without tipping into oversized territory. And it feels approachable from the moment you slide into the driver’s seat.

If you want to see these qualities in action, visit Powers Swain Chevrolet near Fort Bragg, NC. Schedule a test drive today and experience how the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox fits into your daily rhythm.

​

Check Out Other Power Swain Chevrolet Models

Subscribe to Our Blog

Popular Tags

Fort Bragg NC