2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS vs 2026 Subaru Outback Premium
This is not a spec comparison. It is a decision about whether you need a midsize SUV or a midsize sedan. Key numbers: 175 vs 180 hp, 26 vs 27 MPG.
The Equinox RS leads on 25 more lb-ft torque. The Outback Premium leads on 8.5″ longer. 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 RS | 2026 Subaru Outback Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $35,000 | $34,995 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 175 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 31 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 27 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.6 gal | 18.0 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | $1,600/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,629 lbs | 3,741 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 107.5" | 108.1" |
| Length | 183.2" | 191.7" |
| Width | 74.9" | 74.0" |
| Height | 65.6" | 67.5" |
| 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 RS and 2026 Subaru Outback Premium?
The 2026 Subaru Outback Premium starts at $34,995, $5 less than the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS at $35,000. That gap is small enough that monthly payments are nearly identical. Focus on which vehicle fits your life, not the sticker.
Who should choose the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS is the stronger pick when your priority is passenger space and cargo flexibility.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Outback Premium?
The 2026 Subaru Outback Premium is the stronger pick when you want to keep $5 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Outback Premium covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $59/year less on fuel; your priority is a comfortable daily commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS or 2026 Subaru Outback Premium?
The 2026 Subaru Outback Premium rates 27 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS or 2026 Subaru Outback Premium?
The 2026 Subaru Outback Premium produces 180 hp, 5 more than the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS at 175 hp. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS also leads in torque at 203 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Subaru Outback Premium uses a 2.5L flat 4.
Is the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS bigger than the 2026 Subaru Outback Premium?
The 2026 Subaru Outback Premium is 8.5″ longer at 191.7″ vs 183.2″. The 2026 Subaru Outback Premium has a 0.6″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom. Keep in mind these are different vehicle types (midsize SUV vs midsize sedan), so interior layout and cargo access are fundamentally different.
Can I cross-shop a midsize SUV against a midsize sedan?
Yes, and many buyers do. A midsize SUV and a midsize sedan solve different problems, so the comparison is less about specs and more about lifestyle. Think about what you need most: cargo room and passenger space. The spec table above helps you compare the numbers, but a test drive is where you will feel the difference in daily use.
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 Outback trims
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Equinox–Outback Decision
Comparing a midsize SUV to a midsize sedan means asking what you actually need from your next vehicle. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS ($35,000) and 2026 Subaru Outback Premium ($34,995) answer that question differently. The $-5 price gap works out to less than $10/month on a typical loan, so the cost difference is negligible. Pick on fit, not on price.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Subaru Outback Premium uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 5 hp difference (180 vs 175) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Subaru Outback Premium saves roughly $59/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $295.
Living With the Equinox vs the Outback
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS is designed around passenger space, cargo flexibility, and a higher seating position. The 2026 Subaru Outback Premium is optimized for a comfortable daily commute and a low center of gravity. These are fundamentally different vehicles, so the comparison comes down to what job you need done, not which one is objectively better.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS when your priority is passenger space and cargo flexibility. Choose the 2026 Subaru Outback Premium when you want to keep $5 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Outback Premium covers your needs.
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.