2026 Toyota Highlander Limited vs 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV
90 more hp and 107 more lb-ft torque vs $15,025 less and 2 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 265 vs 175 hp, 24 vs 26 MPG.
The Highlander Limited leads on 90 more hp, 107 more lb-ft torque. The Equinox ACTIV leads on $15,025 less, 2 MPG better. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 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 Toyota Highlander Limited | 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $50,025 | $35,000 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.4L I4 Turbo | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 265 hp | 175 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 21 | 24 |
| Highway MPG | 28 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 24 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.9 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,800/yr | $1,700/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,453 lbs | 3,607 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 112.2" | 107.5" |
| Length | 194.9" | 183.2" |
| Width | 76.0" | 74.9" |
| Height | 68.1" | 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 | 2yr/25k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited and 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV starts at $35,000, $15,025 less than the 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited at $50,025. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $265/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited?
The 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited is the stronger pick when the extra 90 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV is the stronger pick when you want to keep $15,025 in your pocket and the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $135/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited or 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV rates 26 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited or 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited produces 265 hp, 90 more than the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV at 175 hp. The 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited also leads in torque at 310 lb-ft vs 203 lb-ft. The 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited runs a 2.4L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited bigger than the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited is 11.7″ longer at 194.9″ vs 183.2″. The 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited has a 4.7″ 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: Toyota trims, Toyota Highlander trims, Chevrolet trims, Chevrolet Equinox trims
The Highlander–Equinox Decision
Cross-shopping midsize SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Highlander and Equinox compare. The $-15,025 gap adds up to $265/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited runs a 2.4L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited has 90 more hp (265 vs 175). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited adds 107 more lb-ft of torque (310 vs 203), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV saves roughly $135/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $675.
Living With the Highlander vs the Equinox
The 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited is 11.7″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited weighs 846 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited when the extra 90 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV when you want to keep $15,025 in your pocket and the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV covers your needs.
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 Toyota or Chevrolet or any dealership.