2026 Kia Sportage SX Prestige vs 2026 Chevrolet Equinox Activ
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Equinox Activ starts at $37,800, $4,290 less. Equinox Activ leads with 29 MPG. Sportage SX Prestige makes 281 hp (+106).
| Spec | 2026 Kia Sportage SX Prestige | 2026 Chevrolet Equinox Activ |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $42,090 +$4,290 | $37,800 Save $4,290 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L Turbo | 1.5L Turbo |
| Horsepower | 281 hp +106 hp | 175 hp 106 hp less |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-Spd DCT | CVT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 22 5 less | 27 +5 |
| Hwy MPG | 28 4 less | 32 +4 |
| Combined MPG | 24 5 less | 29 +5 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 39.5 cu ft | 29.9 cu ft |
| Screen | 12.3" | 11.0" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Panoramic | Yes |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,946 lbs | 3,620 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.3" | 107.4" |
| Length | 183.5" | 183.1" |
| Wheels | 19" Alloy | 18" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | Drive Wise | Chevy Safety |
Sportage SX Prestige or Equinox Activ?
Both are competitive. Equinox Activ has a lower entry price, Equinox Activ leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Kia Sportage SX Prestige and 2026 Chevrolet Equinox Activ?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Sportage SX Prestige or Equinox Activ?
Should I buy a 2026 Kia Sportage or Chevrolet Equinox?
Which is more reliable, the Kia Sportage or Chevrolet Equinox?
Is the Kia Sportage bigger than the Chevrolet Equinox?
What is the cost of insurance for the Sportage SX Prestige vs Equinox Activ?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Kia Sportage SX Prestige?
Who Should Choose the Sportage SX Prestige
The 2026 Kia Sportage SX Prestige appeals to buyers who prioritize what Kia does best: practicality and resale value. At $42,090, it positions itself as the more powerful option.
Kia ownership comes with a distinct ownership proposition. Compare more: Sportage LX vs Sportage EX, Sportage LX vs Sportage X-Pro, Sportage LX vs Sportage SX Prestige.
Who Should Choose the Equinox Activ
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox Activ is the better fit for buyers who want a lower entry price. Superior fuel economy at 29 combined MPG is a genuine running-cost advantage.
Chevrolet's approach to this suv emphasizes a balance of features and value. If that aligns with your priorities, the Equinox Activ deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $4,290 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Sportage SX Prestige is positioned higher, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the Sportage SX Prestige makes 106 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, a panoramic moonroof, 106 more horsepower also contribute. Both are competitive within the suv market, and neither represents a poor value at their respective price points.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Enthusiast drivers will feel the differences immediately if there's a powertrain gap. A 106 hp difference is noticeable during merging, passing, and hill climbs. Interior differences become apparent on longer trips where seat comfort, noise levels, and tech features matter more.
For buyers who primarily drive in urban and suburban settings under 40 mph, both of these suvs will feel remarkably similar in daily use. The differences surface on road trips, in extreme weather (where heated seats and AWD matter), and during technology-heavy interactions like navigation and phone integration.
When Both Suvs Feel the Same
In a parking lot, at a stoplight, or cruising in light traffic, these two vehicles deliver very similar experiences. Both are modern, safe suvs with contemporary safety suites, decent infotainment, and comfortable cabins. Neither will leave you feeling shortchanged in everyday scenarios.
The choice between Kia and Chevrolet often comes down to brand loyalty, dealer experience, and which vehicle simply feels right during a test drive. We recommend driving both back-to-back on the same day — the subtle differences in steering feel, seat position, and visibility are more informative than any spec sheet.