2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV vs 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands
$5,115 less and 3 mpg better vs 75 more hp and 74 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $5,115 price gap, 175 vs 250 hp, 26 vs 23 MPG.
The Equinox ACTIV leads on $5,115 less, 3 MPG better. The Bronco Sport Badlands leads on 75 more hp, 74 more lb-ft torque. 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 | 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV | 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $35,000 | $40,115 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.0L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 175 hp | 250 hp |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 27 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.6 gal | 16.0 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | $1,900/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,607 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 107.5" | 105.1" |
| Length | 183.2" | 172.7" |
| Width | 74.9" | 74.3" |
| Height | 65.6" | 71.4" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 6yr/100k | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV and 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV starts at $35,000, $5,115 less than the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands at $40,115. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $90/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV is the stronger pick when you want to keep $5,115 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $211/year less on fuel; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands?
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands is the stronger pick when the extra 75 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV or 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV rates 26 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV or 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands?
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands produces 250 hp, 75 more than the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV at 175 hp. The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands also leads in torque at 277 lb-ft vs 203 lb-ft. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV bigger than the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV is 10.5″ longer at 183.2″ vs 172.7″. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV has a 2.4″ 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: Chevrolet trims, Chevrolet Equinox trims, Ford trims, Ford Bronco Sport trims
Equinox vs Bronco Sport: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV and 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands sit in the midsize SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $5,115 gap adds up to $90/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands has 75 more hp (250 vs 175). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands adds 74 more lb-ft of torque (277 vs 203), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Equinox vs Bronco Sport
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV saves roughly $211/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,055. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV is 10.5″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV when you want to keep $5,115 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands when the extra 75 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $90/month more, the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
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 Chevrolet or Ford or any dealership.