2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium vs 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV
3 mpg better and 28 more hp vs $600 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 203 vs 175 hp, 29 vs 26 MPG.
The RAV4 XLE Premium leads on 3 MPG better, 28 more hp. The Equinox ACTIV leads on $600 less. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium | 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $35,600 | $35,000 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 203 hp | 175 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 33 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.5 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,700/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,515 lbs | 3,607 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.9" | 107.5" |
| Length | 180.9" | 183.2" |
| Width | 73.0" | 74.9" |
| Height | 67.2" | 65.6" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 2yr/25k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium and 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV starts at $35,000, $600 less than the 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium at $35,600. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $11/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium?
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $167/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV is the stronger pick when you want to keep $600 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium or 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium rates 29 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium or 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium produces 203 hp, 28 more than the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV at 175 hp. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV also leads in torque at 203 lb-ft vs 184 lb-ft. The 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium bigger than the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV is 2.3″ longer at 183.2″ vs 180.9″. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV has a 1.6″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Toyota trims, Toyota RAV4 trims, Chevrolet trims, Chevrolet Equinox trims
The RAV4–Equinox Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the RAV4 and Equinox compare. The $-600 gap is about $11/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium has 28 more hp (203 vs 175), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium saves roughly $167/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $835.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $167/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV when you want to keep $600 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Toyota or Chevrolet or any dealership.