2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S vs 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT
On paper, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S wins on $610 less. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $610 price gap, 187 vs 175 hp, 25 vs 26 MPG.
The CX-5 2.5 S leads on $610 less. 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 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S | 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,990 | $30,600 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 175 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 25 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.3 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,700/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,856 lbs | 3,583 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 110.8" | 107.5" |
| Length | 184.6" | 183.2" |
| Width | 73.2" | 74.9" |
| Height | 66.7" | 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 | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S and 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S starts at $29,990, $610 less than the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT at $30,600. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $11/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $610 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $65/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S or 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT rates 26 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S or 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S produces 187 hp, 12 more than the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT at 175 hp. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT also leads in torque at 203 lb-ft vs 186 lb-ft. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S bigger than the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S is 1.4″ longer at 184.6″ vs 183.2″. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S has a 3.3″ 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: Mazda trims, Mazda CX-5 trims, Chevrolet trims, Chevrolet Equinox trims
- 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The CX-5–Equinox Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the CX-5 and Equinox compare. The $610 gap is about $11/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 12 hp difference (187 vs 175) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT saves roughly $65/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $325.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S when you want to keep $610 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $65/year less on fuel. At $11/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 Mazda or Chevrolet or any dealership.