2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT vs 2025 Toyota Highlander LE
$11,320 less and 2 mpg better vs 90 more hp and 107 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $11,320 price gap, 175 vs 265 hp, 26 vs 24 MPG.
The Equinox LT leads on $11,320 less, 2 MPG better. The Highlander LE leads on 90 more hp, 107 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 LT | 2025 Toyota Highlander LE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $30,600 | $41,920 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.4L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 175 hp | 265 hp |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 24 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.6 gal | 17.9 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | $1,800/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,583 lbs | 4,332 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 107.5" | 112.2" |
| Length | 183.2" | 194.9" |
| Width | 74.9" | 76.0" |
| Height | 65.6" | 68.1" |
| 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 | 2yr/25k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT and 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT starts at $30,600, $11,320 less than the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE at $41,920. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $199/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT is the stronger pick when you want to keep $11,320 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $135/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE is the stronger pick when the extra 90 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 LT or 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT rates 26 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT or 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE produces 265 hp, 90 more than the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT at 175 hp. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE also leads in torque at 310 lb-ft vs 203 lb-ft. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE uses a 2.4L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT bigger than the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE is 11.7″ longer at 194.9″ vs 183.2″. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE has a 4.7″ 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, Toyota trims, Toyota Highlander trims
- 2025 Toyota Highlander LE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the Equinox and Highlander Stack Up
Two midsize SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT ($30,600) and 2025 Toyota Highlander LE ($41,920) solve similar problems in different ways. The $11,320 gap adds up to $199/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 Highlander
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE uses a 2.4L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE has 90 more hp (265 vs 175). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE adds 107 more lb-ft of torque (310 vs 203), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT saves roughly $135/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $675. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE is 11.7″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE weighs 749 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 LT when you want to keep $11,320 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE when the extra 90 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $199/month more, the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE 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 Toyota or any dealership.