2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV vs 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring
$16,165 less and 4 mpg better vs 85 more hp and 74 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $16,165 price gap, 175 vs 260 hp, 26 vs 22 MPG.
The Equinox ACTIV leads on $16,165 less, 4 MPG better. The Ascent Touring leads on 85 more hp, 74 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 | 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $35,000 | $51,165 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.4L flat 4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 175 hp | 260 hp |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 19 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 26 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 22 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.6 gal | 19.3 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | $2,000/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,607 lbs | 4,590 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 107.5" | 113.8" |
| Length | 183.2" | 196.8" |
| Width | 74.9" | 76.0" |
| Height | 65.6" | 71.6" |
| 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 | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV and 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV starts at $35,000, $16,165 less than the 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring at $51,165. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $285/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 $16,165 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $294/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring?
The 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring is the stronger pick when the extra 85 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 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV rates 26 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV or 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring?
The 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring produces 260 hp, 85 more than the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV at 175 hp. The 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring also leads in torque at 277 lb-ft vs 203 lb-ft. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring uses a 2.4L flat 4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV bigger than the 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring?
The 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring is 13.6″ longer at 196.8″ vs 183.2″. The 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring has a 6.3″ 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, Subaru trims, Subaru Ascent trims
How the Equinox and Ascent Stack Up
Two midsize SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV ($35,000) and 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring ($51,165) solve similar problems in different ways. The $16,165 gap adds up to $285/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Equinox vs Ascent
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring uses a 2.4L flat 4 Turbo. The 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring has 85 more hp (260 vs 175). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring adds 74 more lb-ft of torque (277 vs 203), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV saves roughly $294/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,470. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring is 13.6″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring has a 6.3″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring weighs 983 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV when you want to keep $16,165 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring when the extra 85 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $285/month more, the 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring 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 Subaru or any dealership.