2026 Subaru Forester Premium vs 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS
$1,615 less and 3 mpg better vs 25 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $1,615 price gap, 180 vs 175 hp, 29 vs 26 MPG.
The Forester Premium leads on $1,615 less, 3 MPG better. The Equinox RS 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 Premium | 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $33,385 | $35,000 |
| 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 | 3,569 lbs | 3,629 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 Premium and 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Premium starts at $33,385, $1,615 less than the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS at $35,000. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $28/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Premium?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Premium is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,615 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Forester Premium covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $167/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS is the stronger pick when you prefer the Chevrolet approach to the midsize SUV segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Subaru Forester Premium or 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Premium rates 29 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Subaru Forester Premium or 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Premium produces 180 hp, 5 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 Subaru Forester Premium runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Subaru Forester Premium bigger than the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Premium is 0.1″ longer at 183.3″ vs 183.2″. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS 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
Forester vs Equinox: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Subaru Forester Premium and 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $1,615 gap is about $28/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Subaru Forester Premium runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 5 hp difference (180 vs 175) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Forester vs Equinox
The 2026 Subaru Forester Premium 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 Premium wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Premium when you want to keep $1,615 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Forester Premium covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS when you prefer the Chevrolet approach to the midsize SUV segment. At $28/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.