2027 Chevrolet Equinox vs 2026 Toyota RAV4: Full Comparison
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 hybrid delivers 44 combined MPG versus the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox's 26 combined MPG. The Equinox runs a gasoline-only 1.5L turbo; the RAV4 is a full hybrid standard across every trim. This page breaks down every key spec, and you can browse current Equinox inventory at ASA Auto Plaza right now.
The Short Answer
The RAV4 wins on fuel economy, cargo room, and towing capacity by a clear margin. The Equinox wins on infotainment screen size and offers a more approachable entry point for buyers who want a gasoline SUV with modern tech and a comfortable daily driver without the hybrid premium. Shoppers in Austin, MN who prioritize fuel savings at the pump will lean toward the RAV4; shoppers who want a connected, comfortable crossover with a large touchscreen and straightforward ownership will find the Equinox a strong fit.
Specs Head-to-Head
| Specification | 2027 Chevy Equinox | 2026 Toyota RAV4 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L Turbo 4-Cyl. | 2.5L Hybrid 4-Cyl. |
| Horsepower | 175 hp | 226 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 163 lb-ft (gas engine) |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic | Electronic CVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD | FWD / AWD |
| EPA City MPG | 25 | 47 |
| EPA Hwy MPG | 29 | 40 |
| EPA Combined MPG | 26 | 44 |
| Cargo (behind 2nd row) | 29.8 cu ft | 37.8 cu ft |
| Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs | 3,500 lbs (AWD trims) |
| Ground Clearance | 8.08 in | 8.1 in |
| Seating | 5 | 5 |
| Infotainment Screen | 11.3-inch | 10.5-inch (12.9-inch available) |
| Basic Warranty | 3 yr / 36,000 mi | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 yr / 60,000 mi | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
| Hybrid Battery Warranty | N/A | 10 yr / 150,000 mi |
EPA fuel economy ratings for 2027 Chevrolet Equinox
EPA fuel economy ratings for 2026 Toyota RAV4
Performance and Powertrain
The 2027 Equinox uses a 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder producing 175 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Turbo torque arrives low in the rev range, so the Equinox feels responsive in everyday driving around Austin, MN and on highway merges. FWD is standard; AWD is available on all trims.
The 2026 RAV4 pairs its 2.5L gas engine with two motor-generators to produce 226 hp combined. That is a 51 hp advantage over the Equinox. The RAV4 also adds a dedicated rear electric motor on AWD models, giving it genuine electronic AWD without a mechanical center differential.
The CVT transmission keeps the powertrain in its efficiency sweet spot, which is where the RAV4's 47 city / 40 highway numbers come from.
For drivers who want more power and significantly better fuel economy, the RAV4 wins this section. The Equinox's 8-speed automatic feels more conventional and may appeal to drivers who prefer a traditional gear-stepping feel over a CVT.
2027 Chevrolet Equinox specs and trims
Interior, Space, and Cargo
The RAV4 holds 37.8 cu ft of cargo behind the second row, compared to 29.8 cu ft in the Equinox. That is 8 full cubic feet more usable cargo space in the RAV4, a meaningful gap for families or anyone regularly hauling gear across southern Minnesota.
Both vehicles seat five. The Equinox counters the cargo disadvantage with a larger standard infotainment display: 11.3 inches versus the RAV4's 10.5-inch standard screen (though the RAV4 offers a 12.9-inch screen on upper trims). The Equinox also includes an 11-inch digital driver information center display as standard, giving the cabin a tech-forward feel. Dual-zone automatic climate control comes on the Equinox's RS and ACTIV trims; the RAV4 includes it across the lineup as standard equipment.
The Equinox offers wireless phone charging on RS and ACTIV trims. The RAV4 offers single or dual Qi wireless charging depending on trim. Both include remote start and keyless entry.
Technology and Safety
Both vehicles include wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto as standard equipment. Both include automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assistance, and automatic high beams.
The RAV4 goes further in standard safety content. Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 adds Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, adaptive cruise control (full-speed range), Road Sign Assist, Proactive Drive Assist, and a built-in Drive Recorder dash cam, all standard across the lineup. The RAV4 also includes a standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.
The Equinox's standard safety suite covers automatic emergency braking, lane departure steering assistance, forward collision warning, front pedestrian braking, following distance indicator, and automatic high beams. The available 360-degree camera system on the Equinox is a notable option for parking in tighter urban areas.
On available technology, the Equinox offers an available panoramic sunroof and available AutoSense power liftgate. The RAV4 offers Advanced Park (hands-free automated parking), a Head-Up Display, and an available 1,500W cargo power outlet, all on upper trims.
2027 Equinox safety features and available packages
Value and Ownership
Both vehicles carry an identical 3-year / 36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year / 60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The RAV4's hybrid system adds an 8-year / 100,000-mile hybrid system warranty and a 10-year / 150,000-mile hybrid battery warranty. That extended battery coverage is a substantial long-term ownership advantage for RAV4 buyers.
Toyota includes a no-cost maintenance plan with the RAV4. Chevrolet's Equinox does not list a comparable included maintenance program in the verified specs.
On fuel cost, the RAV4's 44 combined MPG versus the Equinox's 26 combined MPG represents a significant annual savings depending on miles driven. A driver covering 15,000 miles per year would use roughly 577 gallons in the Equinox versus approximately 341 gallons in the RAV4, a gap of over 200 gallons annually.
The Equinox offers six trim levels (LT FWD, LT AWD, RS FWD, RS AWD, ACTIV FWD, ACTIV AWD), giving buyers a clear path from an entry-level daily driver to a sportier or more trail-oriented configuration. The RAV4 offers ten trims across HEV and PHEV powertrains, including the Woodland for off-road capability.
Full Equinox trim lineup and availability
Which One Should You Buy
Choose the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox if:
- You want a gasoline-powered SUV without hybrid complexity
- Daily commuting and highway driving dominate your use case and you want a comfortable, well-equipped cabin
- A large 11.3-inch touchscreen and standard remote start matter to you
- You prefer a conventional 8-speed automatic transmission feel
- You want to shop at ASA Auto Plaza in Austin, MN and take advantage of local Chevrolet inventory and service
Choose the 2026 Toyota RAV4 if:
- Fuel economy is your primary decision factor (44 combined MPG vs 26)
- You regularly haul cargo or passengers and need the extra 8 cu ft of cargo space
- You plan to tow, as the RAV4 AWD handles up to 3,500 lbs versus 1,500 lbs for the Equinox
- Long-term ownership costs and the 10-year hybrid battery warranty matter to your budget planning
- You want the comprehensive Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 suite standard from the base trim
For most Minnesota families weighing long-term fuel and maintenance costs, the RAV4's hybrid system makes a compelling case. For the buyer who wants a sharp-looking, connected gasoline crossover with a straightforward ownership experience, the Equinox available at ASA Auto Plaza delivers on that front.
See the 2027 Equinox at ASA Auto Plaza in Austin, MN
ASA Auto Plaza carries current 2027 Chevrolet Equinox inventory at their Austin, MN location. If the Equinox fits your needs after this comparison, the next step is seeing it in person, checking available trims, and taking it out on southern Minnesota roads to get a real feel for the 1.5L turbo. Check what is in stock now, then come in and put it to the test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox get better gas mileage than the 2026 Toyota RAV4?
No. The 2026 RAV4 hybrid achieves 44 combined MPG versus 26 combined MPG for the 2027 Equinox. The RAV4 is a full hybrid standard on every trim, which accounts for the significant efficiency gap.
How much cargo space does the 2027 Equinox have compared to the RAV4?
The 2027 Equinox holds 29.8 cu ft behind the second row. The 2026 RAV4 holds 37.8 cu ft behind the second row, giving the RAV4 an 8 cu ft advantage.
Can the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox tow as much as the RAV4?
No. The Equinox tows up to 1,500 lbs. The RAV4 tows up to 3,500 lbs on AWD trims. If towing a trailer, boat, or small camper is a priority, the RAV4 holds a clear advantage.
Does the 2027 Equinox have a bigger screen than the RAV4?
The Equinox has an 11.3-inch touchscreen as standard. The RAV4 base screen is 10.5 inches, though a 12.9-inch screen is available on upper trims. The Equinox also adds an 11-inch digital driver information center display.
Which vehicle has better standard safety features?
Both include automatic emergency braking, lane departure assistance, and forward collision warning. The RAV4 adds Blind Spot Monitor, full-speed adaptive cruise control, Road Sign Assist, and a built-in dash cam as standard equipment across the lineup. The Equinox's standard safety content is solid but does not match the RAV4's breadth without moving to upper trims.
Where can I buy the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox near Austin, MN?
ASA Auto Plaza in Austin, MN carries the 2027 Equinox. You can check current inventory online or visit the dealership to see available trims and schedule a test drive.
Disclaimer:
The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price excludes tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. Dealer sets final price.
1Dealer Discount applied to everyone
1Dealer Discount applied to everyone