2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT vs 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE
$6,250 less and 3 mpg better vs 102 more hp and 108 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $6,250 price gap, 175 vs 277 hp, 26 vs 23 MPG.
The Equinox LT leads on $6,250 less, 3 MPG better. The Santa Fe SE leads on 102 more hp, 108 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 LT | 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $30,600 | $36,850 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 175 hp | 277 hp |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft | 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.6 gal | 17.7 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,583 lbs | 4,486 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 107.5" | 110.8" |
| Length | 183.2" | 190.2" |
| Width | 74.9" | 74.8" |
| Height | 65.6" | 67.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| 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 LT and 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT starts at $30,600, $6,250 less than the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE at $36,850. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $110/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 $6,250 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $211/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE is the stronger pick when the extra 102 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT or 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT rates 26 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT or 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE produces 277 hp, 102 more than the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT at 175 hp. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 203 lb-ft. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE is 7.0″ longer at 190.2″ vs 183.2″. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE has a 3.3″ 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 Santa Fe 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 Santa Fe trims
- 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the Equinox and Santa Fe Stack Up
Two midsize SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT ($30,600) and 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE ($36,850) solve similar problems in different ways. The $6,250 gap adds up to $110/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 Santa Fe
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE has 102 more hp (277 vs 175). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE adds 108 more lb-ft of torque (311 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 $211/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,055. 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 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE weighs 903 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 $6,250 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE when the extra 102 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $110/month more, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE 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.