2026 Subaru Forester Base vs 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT
$605 less and 3 mpg better vs 25 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $605 price gap, 180 vs 175 hp, 29 vs 26 MPG.
The Forester Base leads on $605 less, 3 MPG better. The Equinox LT leads on 25 more lb-ft torque. 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 Subaru Forester Base | 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,995 | $30,600 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L flat 4 | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 175 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 33 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.6 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,700/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,510 lbs | 3,583 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 107.5" |
| Length | 183.3" | 183.2" |
| Width | 72.0" | 74.9" |
| Height | 68.1" | 65.6" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | 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 Subaru Forester Base and 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base starts at $29,995, $605 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 Subaru Forester Base?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base is the stronger pick when you want to keep $605 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Forester Base covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $167/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT is the stronger pick when you prefer the Chevrolet approach to the midsize SUV segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Subaru Forester Base or 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base rates 29 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Subaru Forester Base or 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base produces 180 hp, 5 more than the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT at 175 hp. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT also leads in torque at 203 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Subaru Forester Base runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Subaru Forester Base bigger than the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base is 0.1″ longer at 183.3″ vs 183.2″. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT 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: Subaru trims, Subaru Forester trims, Chevrolet trims, Chevrolet Equinox trims
- 2026 Subaru Forester Base Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Forester–Equinox Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Forester and Equinox compare. The $605 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 Subaru Forester Base runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 5 hp difference (180 vs 175) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base saves roughly $167/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $835. The 2026 Subaru Forester Base wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Base when you want to keep $605 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Forester Base covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT when you prefer the Chevrolet approach to the midsize SUV segment. 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 Subaru or Chevrolet or any dealership.