What Is New for the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox?

August 3rd, 2026 by

The 2027 Chevrolet Equinox introduces a standard 8-speed automatic transmission across all front-wheel-drive models, replacing the previously used continuously variable transmission. Additional updates include an increased front-wheel-drive gross vehicle weight rating of 4,850 pounds, a new Autumn Harvest Metallic paint option, and available technology additions including an interior camera and a rear camera washer within the Safety & Technology Package.

Chevrolet maintains a streamlined trim lineup for the 2027 model year, offering the LT, RS, and ACTIV trims. Under the hood, every model continues to utilize the proven 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. While the exterior design and primary cabin layout carry over, targeted equipment updates refine daily drivability and order-sheet flexibility.

Cosmetically, Autumn Harvest Metallic joins the exterior color palette, replacing Cacti Green. The sporty RS trim now offers orderable splash guards for added lower-body protection against road debris. For the LT trim, the optional Midnight Edition gains updated 19-inch gloss-black aluminum wheels, though it can no longer be paired with a contrasting white roof.

On the technology front, safety features expand within the optional Safety & Technology Package. Drivers gain access to a rear camera washer—a practical enhancement for clearing highway spray—alongside an interior cabin camera. Standard equipment remains generous, featuring Chevy Safety Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Zone Steering Assist, remote start, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel across every trim.

To explore these updates in person, drivers can visit our Burlington showroom or give our sales team a call at (866) 602-6691 to view our new vehicle inventory online.

Table of Contents

What Engine and Transmission Power the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox?

Under the hood, the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox features a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine delivering efficient power for daily driving. Front-wheel-drive models generate 175 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, while all-wheel-drive models feature an increased torque output of 203 lb-ft at 2,000 RPM.

The switch to an 8-speed automatic transmission on front-wheel-drive variants is the defining mechanical update for 2027. By replacing the previous continuously variable transmission with traditional geared ratios, front-wheel-drive models deliver discrete, stepped gear shifts under acceleration. This change provides a more immediate throttle response when merging onto high-speed corridors along Interstate 40 near Mebane.

All-wheel-drive variants retain the Hydra-Matic 8-speed automatic that was previously standard on all-wheel-drive setups. The all-wheel-drive system actively manages torque distribution between the front and rear axles, maximizing traction on wet pavement or unpaved back roads.

Engine output is delivered smoothly across a wide power band, peaking at 5,600 RPM for horsepower. Mechanical power distribution across the 2027 lineup is structured as follows:

  • LT 1.5T: 1.5-liter turbo engine, 175 hp, 184 lb-ft torque, front-wheel drive, Hydra-Matic 8-speed automatic
  • AWD LT 1.5T: 1.5-liter turbo engine, 175 hp, 203 lb-ft torque, all-wheel drive, Hydra-Matic 8-speed automatic
  • RS 1.5T: 1.5-liter turbo engine, 175 hp, 184 lb-ft torque, front-wheel drive, Hydra-Matic 8-speed automatic
  • AWD RS 1.5T: 1.5-liter turbo engine, 175 hp, 203 lb-ft torque, all-wheel drive, Hydra-Matic 8-speed automatic
  • ACTIV 1.5T: 1.5-liter turbo engine, 175 hp, 184 lb-ft torque, front-wheel drive, Hydra-Matic 8-speed automatic
  • AWD ACTIV 1.5T: 1.5-liter turbo engine, 175 hp, 203 lb-ft torque, all-wheel drive, Hydra-Matic 8-speed automatic

Shoppers comparing pre-owned options against current model years can also review our current used car selection to test-drive previous transmission setups back-to-back.

What Are the Exterior Dimensions of the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox?

The 2027 Chevrolet Equinox measures 183.2 inches in overall length, 74.9 inches in exterior body width without mirrors, and 65.6 inches in total height, resting on a 107.5-inch wheelbase. These balanced exterior dimensions yield an EPA-rated passenger volume of about 104 cubic feet and a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,850 pounds on front-wheel-drive configurations.

Understanding exterior dimensions helps drivers determine garage fitment, parking maneuverability, and overall road stance. The 107.5-inch wheelbase strikes a balance between tight low-speed turning capability and highway stability. Front and rear track widths contribute to a grounded driving position, while overall curb weight starts at approximately 3,428 pounds on front-wheel-drive models and scales up to 3,607 pounds on fully equipped all-wheel-drive ACTIV models.

Exterior sizing translates directly into interior passenger dimensions:

  • Front Headroom: 40 inches
  • Front Legroom: 40.9 inches
  • Rear Headroom: 39.2 inches
  • Rear Legroom: 39.9 inches
  • Rear Shoulder Room: 55.8 inches

Cargo flexibility is another strength of the vehicle’s architectural proportions. Behind the second-row seats, the rear cargo area offers about 30 cubic feet of luggage space. Folding down the 60/40 split-bench rear seat expands maximum cargo volume to about 63.5 cubic feet, accommodating larger items like athletic equipment or camping gear.

If you are planning to upgrade from your current vehicle to a crossover with these dimensions, you can easily value your trade-in online before stopping by the dealership.

What Exactly Changed From the 2026 Equinox to the 2027 Model?

Key updates from the 2026 to 2027 Equinox include a higher gross vehicle weight rating and a fresh Autumn Harvest Metallic paint option. Factory-ordered trailering hitches were discontinued, while a rear camera washer and interior camera were added to the optional Safety & Technology Package.

When walking shoppers through our lot, buyers comparing 2026 and 2027 models usually ask about the transmission feel first before checking exterior paint colors. For front-wheel-drive drivers, the transition from a CVT to a geared 8-speed automatic is the most significant mechanical upgrade between the two model years. All-wheel-drive models were already equipped with the 8-speed automatic in 2026, meaning their mechanical drivetrain performance remains identical for 2027.

Towing specifications require careful attention when ordering. Both model years maintain a maximum towing rating of up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped. However, the factory-installed trailering package and receiver hitch have been removed from the 2027 factory order guide. Buyers who plan to tow light utility trailers or small watercraft must install an authorized dealer accessory or aftermarket hitch.

Equipment packaging saw several small adjustments:

  • FWD Transmission: CVT (2026) replaced by 8-speed automatic (2027)
  • FWD Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 4,630 pounds (2026) increased to 4,850 pounds (2027)
  • Exterior Paint: Cacti Green retired; Autumn Harvest Metallic introduced
  • Safety Tech Options: Rear camera washer and interior cabin camera added to Safety & Technology Package
  • RS Accessories: Molded splash guards now orderable on RS trim levels

Drivers looking to lock in purchase terms on new or incoming crossover inventory can submit an online credit application to begin the pre-approval process.

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How Does the 2027 Equinox EV Differ From the Gas-Powered Equinox?

The 2027 Equinox EV is built on General Motors’ dedicated Ultium electric vehicle architecture, making it an entirely separate vehicle platform from the gasoline-powered 2027 Equinox. Chevrolet offers no hybrid or plug-in hybrid model bridging the two, requiring shoppers to select either a traditional internal combustion engine or a battery-electric powertrain.

While both vehicles share similar naming and compact crossover proportions, their underlying engineering differs completely. The gasoline-powered 2027 Equinox relies on a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, an 8-speed automatic transmission, and a 14.8-gallon or 15.6-gallon fuel tank. Maintenance for the gas model follows traditional internal combustion schedules, including regular oil changes, engine air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections.

In contrast, the Equinox EV relies on electric drive motors powered by a high-voltage battery pack mounted within the chassis floor. It delivers instant electric torque, single-speed direct drive, and regenerative braking features like One-Paddle Driving. Charging occurs via home Level 2 AC outlets or commercial DC fast-charging stations rather than gasoline fill-ups.

Vehicle dimensions and interior layouts also differ slightly between the two platforms due to the Ultium battery placement. The EV variant features a longer wheelbase and unique exterior sheet metal designed for aerodynamic efficiency. Both vehicles accommodate five passengers and feature modern touchscreen displays, but their chassis foundations, weight distribution, and driving dynamics reflect their distinct propulsion systems.

For maintenance supplies or model-specific accessories for internal combustion models, owners can order directly through our genuine Chevrolet parts department.

How Does Fuel Economy Compare Between the Equinox, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape?

Front-wheel-drive 2027 Chevrolet Equinox models earn EPA fuel economy estimates of 25 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 27 mpg combined from their 1.5-liter turbocharged engine. Non-hybrid gas rivals like the Toyota RAV4 (27 city / 35 highway) and Ford Escape 1.5L (27 city / 34 highway) post higher highway ratings, but the Equinox balances its fuel usage with standard turbocharged torque and standard comfort equipment.

Comparing non-hybrid gasoline compact crossovers reveals distinct efficiency ratings across the segment:

  • 2027 Chevrolet Equinox FWD (1.5L Turbo): 25 mpg city / 29 mpg highway / 27 mpg combined
  • 2027 Chevrolet Equinox AWD (1.5L Turbo): 25 mpg city / 29 mpg highway / 26 mpg combined
  • Toyota RAV4 FWD (2.5L 4-Cyl): 27 mpg city / 35 mpg highway / 30 mpg combined
  • Ford Escape FWD (1.5L EcoBoost): 27 mpg city / 34 mpg highway / 30 mpg combined

The Toyota RAV4’s naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine achieves 203 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, earning 30 mpg combined in front-wheel drive. The Ford Escape’s 1.5-liter 3-cylinder engine produces 180 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque, also yielding 30 mpg combined. While those competitors hold a slight edge in highway efficiency numbers, the Equinox delivers its 203 lb-ft of available all-wheel-drive torque lower in the RPM range, aiding drivability along rural section roads in Haw River.

Additionally, fuel tank capacities differ across drive setups. Front-wheel-drive Equinox models hold about 15 gallons of gasoline, while all-wheel-drive configurations hold about 16 gallons. This provides a total highway cruising range of over 430 miles per tank on all-wheel-drive models.

Current owners seeking routine maintenance to preserve optimal fuel economy can easily schedule a service appointment with our certified technicians.

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Are 2027 Equinox RS or ACTIV Trims Available at Modern Chevrolet?

The 2027 Chevrolet Equinox RS, ACTIV, and entry-level LT trims are currently available at Modern Chevrolet in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations. Each trim level caters to specific aesthetic and functional preferences:

  • LT: Features standard 11.3-inch touchscreen, Google Built-In, heated front seats, remote start, and 17-inch aluminum wheels.
  • RS: Adds sporty styling with black exterior emblems, high-gloss black grille accents, 19-inch Carbon Flash aluminum wheels, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and Torch Red interior accent stitching.
  • ACTIV: Designed for a rugged look with a unique front fascia, off-road tuned suspension, 17-inch Dark Android machined-face wheels fitted with all-terrain tires, and Maple Sugar sueded microfiber seat inserts.

All 2027 Equinox models carry GM’s standard factory warranty package, including a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain limited warranty with roadside assistance.

To view trim levels side-by-side or take a test drive, get directions to our dealership or call our sales team at (866) 602-6691.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox

Q: Does the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox come with a factory trailer hitch?

Chevrolet discontinued the factory-ordered trailering package and receiver hitch for the 2027 model year. The Equinox remains rated to tow up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped, but buyers who plan to haul light trailers must purchase an authorized dealer accessory hitch or an approved aftermarket receiver.

Q: What warranty coverage comes standard on the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox?

General Motors covers the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox with a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty alongside a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain limited warranty. Corrosion perforation protection lasts 6 years or 100,000 miles, and roadside assistance coverage is included for 5 years or 60,000 miles.

Q: What size touchscreen is standard inside the 2027 Equinox?

An 11.3-inch diagonal infotainment touchscreen comes standard across all 2027 Equinox trim levels. The system features Google Built-In capability, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and standard 5G Wi-Fi hotspot connectivity alongside an 11-inch driver information center display.

Q: Is all-wheel drive available on every 2027 Equinox trim level?

All-wheel drive is available as an option across the entire 2027 Equinox lineup for the LT, RS, and ACTIV models. These all-wheel-drive variants provide an increased engine torque output of 203 lb-ft, compared to the 184 lb-ft found on front-wheel-drive models.

Q: What is the fuel tank capacity on the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox?

Front-wheel-drive 2027 Chevrolet Equinox models feature a 14.8-gallon fuel tank, while all-wheel-drive configurations carry a 15.6-gallon fuel tank. Both versions utilize regular unleaded gasoline for their 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine.

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Schedule Your 2027 Chevrolet Equinox Test Drive in Burlington

Experience the updated 8-speed automatic transmission, modern cabin tech, and distinct trim personalities of the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox at Modern Chevrolet. Our sales staff is standing by to walk you through available inventory, evaluate your trade-in, and present competitive purchasing options. Visit our showroom on Alamance Road today or contact our team to schedule your test drive.

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Posted in Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Equinox EV