Compact SUVs remain one of the most popular choices for Bloomington-area drivers, and the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox continues to stand out for its practicality, comfort, and value-driven design. The newest generation offers updated styling, refined driving dynamics, and upgraded technology, making it appealing to both everyday commuters and growing households. With affordable pricing and strong fuel economy, the Equinox appeals to buyers who want capability without a high cost of ownership.
Shoppers searching for a Chevy Equinox for sale in Bloomington will find that the 2026 model year offers generous interior space, a smooth ride, and a user-friendly infotainment interface. Tech-savvy drivers appreciate the Equinox’s standard touchscreen, built-in safety features, and seamless smartphone integration, while budget-conscious shoppers value its efficiency and reliability. It’s a well-rounded SUV designed to meet the needs of Minnesotans, whether they’re traveling across town, commuting into Minneapolis, or taking a weekend trip up north.
Bloomington families will also appreciate the Equinox’s versatility. A spacious second row, an accessible cargo area, and a flexible seating layout make it ideal for school runs, day trips, and errands. The updated trims for 2026—LT, RS, and ACTIV—allow drivers to choose between a clean and simple look, a sporty edge, or a more rugged style. Chevrolet even offers a fully electric version, the Equinox EV, for shoppers wanting all-electric power in the same familiar package. The Equinox EV may share the same name and general size as the gas model, but it is a distinct model in its own right.
If you’re considering a compact SUV this year, the 2026 Equinox is worth a closer look. This buyer’s guide breaks down performance, features, trims, and everything Bloomington shoppers should know before visiting a dealership.
Trim Levels and Configuration Options
Chevrolet’s simple 2026 Equinox trim lineup makes it easier for Bloomington shoppers to select a model that suits their daily needs. Each trim focuses on a specific combination of style, features, and personality, while the entire lineup benefits from Chevy Safety Assist, a suite of driver-assist safety technologies that reduce driver fatigue and help identify and avoid road hazards.
All Equinox gas power trims include 63.5 cu.ft. of cargo volume (53 cu.ft. in the Equinox EV), a 60/40 split folding rear bench seat, and extra storage beneath the cargo floor. You’ll also get a standard 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen in the gas model and a 17.7-inch display in the EV, both of which come with the Chevy Safety Assist suite of driver-assist technology.
Equinox LT
- Best for: Value-focused shoppers, commuters, and first-time SUV buyers.
- Why: The LT trim offers approachable pricing, a clean interior layout, modern smartphone compatibility, and all the essentials drivers need without extra cost. It’s ideal for Bloomington residents who want practicality and dependability above all else. Standard features include heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a massive 11.3-inch infotainment screen.
Equinox RS
- Best for: Drivers who prefer sportier styling with everyday comfort.
- Why: The RS trim features blacked-out accents, 19-inch wheels with optional 20-inch machined wheels, and upgraded interior touches that add personality without compromising efficiency or usability. It’s an excellent fit for tech-savvy drivers or anyone wanting a more athletic look. The Equinox RS also features a stylish flat-bottom steering wheel and an available two-tone black roof, adding to its already impressive curb appeal.
Equinox ACTIV
- Best for: Outdoor-oriented drivers and families who enjoy weekend adventures.
- Why: The Equinox ACTIV adds rugged exterior cues, 17-inch Dark Android machined-face aluminum wheels, and a more adventurous aesthetic. Interior seating surfaces incorporate suede-like microfiber, and buyers can opt for a unique white roof. Ideal for Bloomington drivers who head north for cabin trips, camping, or light trail use while still needing a smooth daily commuter.
Equinox EV
- Best for: Eco-conscious buyers and those ready for a low-maintenance driving experience.
- Why: The all-electric Equinox EV offers instant torque, quiet performance, and advanced digital displays. The electric lineup is available in three different trim options: LT1, LT2, and RS. Driving range tops out at a whopping 319 miles with front-wheel drive, helping drivers avoid the dreaded range anxiety that comes with some lower-range EVs. It’s a wise choice for local commuters who want modern efficiency, a smaller carbon footprint, and brisk acceleration without sacrificing the familiar Equinox shape and utility.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
The 2026 Equinox delivers an approachable and confident driving experience tailored to Bloomington’s mix of urban, suburban, and highway travel. Chevrolet refined the suspension and steering to create a composed ride that absorbs bumps and remains stable over Minnesota’s roads. This balance makes the Equinox easy to drive for new motorists and comfortable for commuters who spend long stretches behind the wheel.
All gas-powered Equinox trims feature a standard turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces up to 175 hp. Drivers can choose between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, which are available as options across all three trims. Acceleration is smooth and predictable, supporting daily tasks like merging onto I-35W or adapting to changing traffic speeds around the Twin Cities. The standard powertrain prioritizes efficiency while still providing enough responsiveness for everyday driving.
The Equinox EV model standard engine is powered by a single 220-hp electric motor (front-wheel drive) or a 300-hp, dual-motor powertrain (all-wheel drive). Car and Driver tracks zero-to-sixty acceleration on the front-wheel drive version at a brisk 7.7 seconds, while all-wheel drive Equinox EVs clock in at an astounding 5.8 seconds.
Safety and Driver-Assist Technology
Chevrolet equips both 2026 Equinox models with a suite of standard safety features designed to enhance awareness and help reduce driver fatigue. Every model includes essential driver-assist technologies, such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning, and front pedestrian detection. These features function in the background to provide consistent support during daily travel, particularly on packed Bloomington roadways.
Available upgrades further enhance the safety experience. Options such as adaptive cruise control, rear parking assistance, and high definition surround vision can help drivers feel more confident during highway commutes and when navigating busy parking lots. Families and new drivers benefit from these tools, which serve as an additional layer of reassurance during unpredictable traffic conditions.
The electric Equinox EV brings expanded digital displays that make safety alerts and information easy to see at a glance. Clear graphics and intuitive menus help drivers stay informed without distraction, reinforcing the Equinox’s user-friendly approach to technology.
In addition to its robust safety technologies, both gas and electric Equinox utilizes Google built-in for easy accessibility to a range of apps and the helpful Google Assistant, which can be activated with voice commands, allowing drivers to stay focused on the road. Wireless phone charging is also available for drivers looking to avoid messy cords.
The 2026 Chevy Equinox Should Be High on Your List
Both 2026 Chevrolet Equinox models combine value, comfort, versatility, and modern technology in a way that sets them apart from many of their competitors. Its trim lineup caters to a wide range of Bloomington drivers—from budget-conscious commuters to families, outdoor adventurers, and EV shoppers—while its balanced performance keeps daily travel stress-free.
Safety technology comes standard, interior space is practical and thoughtfully arranged, and the ride remains quiet and composed in every setting. The 2026 Chevy Equinox stands out for its affordability, making it a top choice for budget-conscious SUV buyers navigating a crowded market segment.
Where some compact SUVs demand compromises, the Equinox succeeds by offering a little bit of everything without overwhelming the driver or inflating the price. This well-rounded design, backed by Chevrolet’s established reputation for reliability, makes the 2026 Equinox, gas or electric, one of the strongest choices in its class for drivers seeking long-term value and everyday comfort. Visit us today at Lupient Chevrolet to explore the 2026 Equinox.
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