2026 Subaru Forester Touring 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, $3,695 less. Forester Touring leads with 30 MPG. Forester Touring makes 180 hp (+5).
| Spec | 2026 Subaru Forester Touring | 2026 Chevrolet Equinox Activ |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $41,495 +$3,695 | $37,800 Save $3,695 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L Flat-4 | 1.5L Turbo |
| Horsepower | 180 hp +5 hp | 175 hp 5 hp less |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT | CVT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 29 +2 | 27 2 less |
| Hwy MPG | 33 +1 | 32 1 less |
| Combined MPG | 30 +1 | 29 1 less |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 29.6 cu ft | 29.9 cu ft |
| Screen | 11.6" | 11.0" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Panoramic | Yes |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,650 lbs | 3,620 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 107.4" |
| Length | 182.3" | 183.1" |
| Wheels | 18" Alloy | 18" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | EyeSight | Chevy Safety |
Forester Touring or Equinox Activ?
Both are competitive. Equinox Activ has a lower entry price, Forester Touring leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Subaru Forester Touring and 2026 Chevrolet Equinox Activ?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Forester Touring or Equinox Activ?
Should I buy a 2026 Subaru Forester or Chevrolet Equinox?
Which is more reliable, the Subaru Forester or Chevrolet Equinox?
Is the Subaru Forester bigger than the Chevrolet Equinox?
What is the cost of insurance for the Forester Touring vs Equinox Activ?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Subaru Forester Touring?
Who Should Choose the Forester Touring
The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring appeals to buyers who prioritize what Subaru does best: practicality and resale value. At $41,495, it positions itself as the more powerful option.
Fuel economy is a clear strength here — 30 combined MPG means lower running costs over the life of the vehicle. Subaru ownership comes with a distinct ownership proposition. Compare more: Forester Base vs Forester Premium, Forester Base vs Forester Sport, Forester Base vs Forester Touring.
Who Should Choose the Equinox Activ
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox Activ is the better fit for buyers who want a lower entry price.
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 $3,695 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Forester Touring is positioned higher, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the Forester Touring makes 5 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, a panoramic moonroof, 5 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. The horsepower difference here is modest enough that most commuters won't notice it. 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 Subaru 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.