2026 Kia Sportage EX vs 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS
$2,610 less vs 25 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $2,610 price gap, 187 vs 175 hp, 26 vs 26 MPG.
The Sportage EX leads on $2,610 less. The Equinox RS leads on 25 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 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 Kia Sportage EX | 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $32,390 | $35,000 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 175 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 24 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.3 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,700/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,827 lbs | 3,629 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.5" | 107.5" |
| Length | 184.4" | 183.2" |
| Width | 73.4" | 74.9" |
| Height | 66.3" | 65.6" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/100k | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Kia Sportage EX and 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS?
The 2026 Kia Sportage EX starts at $32,390, $2,610 less than the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS at $35,000. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $46/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Kia Sportage EX?
The 2026 Kia Sportage EX is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,610 in your pocket and the 2026 Kia Sportage EX covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS is the stronger pick when the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Kia Sportage EX or 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS?
Both achieve 26 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Kia Sportage EX or 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS?
The 2026 Kia Sportage EX produces 187 hp, 12 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 Kia Sportage EX runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Kia Sportage EX bigger than the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS?
The 2026 Kia Sportage EX is 1.2″ longer at 184.4″ vs 183.2″. The 2026 Kia Sportage EX has a 1.0″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Kia Sportage comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Chevrolet Equinox offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Kia trims, Kia Sportage trims, Chevrolet trims, Chevrolet Equinox trims
- 2026 Kia Sportage EX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the Sportage and Equinox Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Kia Sportage EX ($32,390) and 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS ($35,000) solve similar problems in different ways. The $2,610 gap is about $46/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Sportage vs Equinox
The 2026 Kia Sportage EX runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 12 hp difference (187 vs 175) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Kia Sportage EX when you want to keep $2,610 in your pocket and the 2026 Kia Sportage EX covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS when the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute. At $46/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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 Kia or Chevrolet or any dealership.