2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV vs 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy
$18,000 less and 5 mpg better vs 116 more hp and 59 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $18,000 price gap, 175 vs 291 hp, 26 vs 21 MPG.
The Equinox ACTIV leads on $18,000 less, 5 MPG better. The Palisade Calligraphy leads on 116 more hp, 59 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 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 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $35,000 | $53,000 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 3.8L V6 |
| Horsepower | 175 hp | 291 hp |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 19 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 24 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 21 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.6 gal | 18.8 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | $2,100/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,607 lbs | 4,506 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 107.5" | 114.2" |
| Length | 183.2" | 196.7" |
| Width | 74.9" | 77.8" |
| Height | 65.6" | 68.9" |
| Safety | ||
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 6yr/100k | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV and 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV starts at $35,000, $18,000 less than the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy at $53,000. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $317/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 $18,000 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $385/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy is the stronger pick when the extra 116 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV or 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV rates 26 combined MPG, 5 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV or 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy produces 291 hp, 116 more than the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV at 175 hp. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy also leads in torque at 262 lb-ft vs 203 lb-ft. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy uses a 3.8L V6.
Is the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV bigger than the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy is 13.5″ longer at 196.7″ vs 183.2″. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy has a 6.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Chevrolet Equinox comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Hyundai Palisade offers 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Chevrolet trims, Chevrolet Equinox trims, Hyundai trims, Hyundai Palisade trims
The Equinox–Palisade Decision
Cross-shopping midsize SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Equinox and Palisade compare. The $18,000 gap adds up to $317/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy uses a 3.8L V6. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy has 116 more hp (291 vs 175). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy adds 59 more lb-ft of torque (262 vs 203), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV saves roughly $385/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,925. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Living With the Equinox vs the Palisade
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy is 13.5″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy has a 6.7″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy weighs 899 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV when you want to keep $18,000 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy when the extra 116 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $317/month more, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy 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 Hyundai or any dealership.