2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands vs 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV
75 more hp and 74 more lb-ft torque vs $5,265 less and 2 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 250 vs 175 hp, 24 vs 26 MPG.
The Bronco Sport Badlands leads on 75 more hp, 74 more lb-ft torque. The Equinox ACTIV leads on $5,265 less, 2 MPG better. 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 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands | 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $40,265 | $35,000 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 Turbo | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 250 hp | 175 hp |
| Torque | 277 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 21 | 24 |
| Highway MPG | 28 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 24 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.0 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,800/yr | $1,700/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 3,607 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 107.5" |
| Length | 172.7" | 183.2" |
| Width | 74.3" | 74.9" |
| Height | 71.4" | 65.6" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands and 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV starts at $35,000, $5,265 less than the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands at $40,265. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $93/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands?
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands is the stronger pick when the extra 75 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV is the stronger pick when you want to keep $5,265 in your pocket and the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $135/year less on fuel; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands or 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV rates 26 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands or 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands produces 250 hp, 75 more than the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV at 175 hp. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands also leads in torque at 277 lb-ft vs 203 lb-ft. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands bigger than the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV is 10.5″ longer at 183.2″ vs 172.7″. The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV has a 2.4″ 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: Ford trims, Ford Bronco Sport trims, Chevrolet trims, Chevrolet Equinox trims
How the Bronco Sport and Equinox Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands ($40,265) and 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV ($35,000) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-5,265 gap adds up to $93/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: Bronco Sport vs Equinox
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands has 75 more hp (250 vs 175). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands 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 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV saves roughly $135/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $675.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV is 10.5″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands when the extra 75 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV when you want to keep $5,265 in your pocket and the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV 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 Ford or Chevrolet or any dealership.