After spending a full week driving the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV RS, the most honest description of the experience is simple: It was ok.
That is not a dismissal. It is an accurate reflection of a vehicle that does exactly what it is designed to do, without attempting to redefine the category. The Equinox EV is a practical electric crossover with familiar Chevrolet sensibilities. It delivers competence, predictability, and ease of use, but rarely excitement.
Photo credit Daryl Killian
What’s New for 2026
Changes for the 2026 model year are modest and largely cosmetic.
A new Midnight appearance package is available on LT trims, adding black wheels and dark exterior trim. RS trims can now be ordered with a monotone paint scheme rather than being locked into a contrasting black roof. Polar White Tricoat replaces Iridescent Pearl Tricoat on the color options list. All models now include a dual-level charging cable as standard equipment.
Photo credit Daryl Killian
Photo credit Daryl Killian
Photo credit Daryl Killian
These updates improve flexibility and convenience for owners, but they do not alter the core experience.
Performance and Driving Impressions
Front-wheel-drive Equinox EV models use a single electric motor producing 220 horsepower. Dual-motor all-wheel-drive models increase output to 300 horsepower.
In real-world driving, the front-wheel-drive version does not deliver the instant punch many drivers expect from an EV. Acceleration is adequate, but noticeably restrained. The dual-motor all-wheel-drive system transforms the driving experience, delivering stronger launches, greater passing power, and a more confident overall feel.
The ride is comfortable, the steering is well-weighted, and Chevrolet allows drivers to select from multiple regenerative braking levels, including a true one-pedal driving mode. The all-wheel-drive option costs $3,300, and based on daily use, it is worth every dollar.
Super Cruise is the most impressive technology feature in the vehicle. It works exceptionally well on mapped highways and delivers a true hands-free experience.
However, at an additional $3,300, its value depends entirely on how often it will be used. Unlike all-wheel drive, Super Cruise does not fundamentally change how the Equinox EV feels to drive.
Range, Charging, and Real-World Efficiency
All Equinox EV models use the same battery pack, with range varying by drivetrain.
EPA estimates the front-wheel-drive version at up to 319 miles and the all-wheel-drive version at 307 miles. In real-world highway driving at sustained speeds, both versions returned closer to 260 miles of usable range.
The window sticker lists a combined efficiency rating of 103 MPGe, with 112 MPGe city and 95 MPGe highway for the all-wheel-drive RS. In practice, highway efficiency landed closer to 91 MPGe.
Photo credit Daryl Killian
Chevrolet states that DC fast charging can add approximately 70 miles of range in about 10 minutes under ideal conditions. That is competitive, though not class-leading. As with most EVs, the Equinox EV is best suited for buyers with access to overnight home charging. Without it, the cost and convenience advantages diminish quickly.
The EPA estimates annual fuel costs at approximately $850, assuming average electricity pricing and typical usage.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The interior can best be described as Chevrolet.
Materials are durable and functional, but not aspirational. The RS trim adds visual interest with red accent stitching on gray seats and RS logos embossed into the headrests. It looks good, but it does not elevate the cabin into premium territory.
Photo credit Daryl Killian
Rear seat space is adequate for a family of four and workable for five on shorter trips. Cargo capacity handled a full Costco and grocery run without issue, which is a more meaningful test than most spec sheets.
Photo credit Daryl Killian
With the rear seats folded, cargo volume measures 57 cubic feet, slightly less than the gasoline-powered Equinox but still sufficient for daily life.
Photo credit Daryl Killian
Photo credit Daryl Killian
Technology and Infotainment
Every Equinox EV includes an 11-inch digital instrument cluster paired with a 17.7-inch center touchscreen. The layout is clean and intuitive.
Photo credit Daryl Killian
Photo credit Daryl Killian
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not offered. Instead, Chevrolet relies on built-in Google services such as Google Maps and Spotify, along with available in-dash navigation and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Some buyers will adapt quickly; others may see this as a drawback.
Photo credit Daryl Killian
Pricing Reality and Value Context
The window sticker tells an important story.
As tested, the 2026 Equinox EV RS carries a total price of $51,745, including destination. At this price, the Equinox EV is no longer simply competing with compact crossovers. It sits directly against vehicles like the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and entry-level luxury EVs.
That context matters. The Equinox EV is priced like a modern, tech-forward electric vehicle, but it delivers an experience that feels more like a conventional crossover that happens to be electric.
Safety and Warranty Coverage
Standard safety features include automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning with lane keeping assist, and automatic high beam headlights. Adaptive cruise control with hands-free driving is available when Super Cruise is equipped.
Warranty coverage includes a three-year or 36,000-mile limited warranty, a five-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and eight years or 100,000 miles of coverage for electric components. Complimentary maintenance is included for the first service visit only. Some competitors offer more generous long-term coverage.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV RS is a solid electric crossover that prioritizes familiarity and ease of use over innovation.
It is not especially fast, its range is average for the segment, and the interior prioritizes function over flair. What it does well is deliver a comfortable ride, strong safety technology, practical space, and an approachable driving experience for buyers new to EV ownership.
The black paint paired with black 21-inch wheels gives the RS a surprisingly menacing look, distancing it from the typical eco-friendly appliance image. That visual presence turned out to be the most enjoyable surprise.
For city and suburban drivers with home charging who want an electric SUV that feels easy to live with and easy to understand, the Equinox EV RS makes sense. For buyers seeking standout performance, cutting-edge innovation, or the strongest value per dollar, this is a vehicle worth cross-shopping carefully before committing.
