Vehicle Comparison
2026 Chevrolet Equinox
- Standard Dual-Display Tech
- Adventure-Ready ACTIV Trim
- Chevy Safety Assist
2026 GMC Terrain
- Standard 15-inch vertical infotainment system
- Truck-Inspired Design
- Premium Denali Luxury
Choosing the right compact SUV is a big decision for families in Little Rock. Two of the most popular options on the market right now are the 2026 Chevy Equinox and the 2026 GMC Terrain. Both vehicles have been recently redesigned to look tougher and offer more technology than ever before. While they share some parts under the hood, they offer very different experiences for drivers in Central Arkansas.
Whether you are navigating the busy streets of North Little Rock, commuting from Conway, or taking a weekend trip to Benton, you need a reliable, comfortable vehicle. At Crain Chevy of Little Rock, the 2026 Equinox offers the best balance of style, features, and overall value. Let’s see how it compares to the GMC Terrain.
Design and Style
The 2026 Chevy Equinox has a bold new look that makes it stand out in any Sherwood parking lot. It features strong, squared-off lines and a wide stance. One of the coolest parts about the new Equinox is the available two-tone roof, which lets you pick a contrasting color like Summit White to make your SUV pop.
The 2026 GMC Terrain also features a rugged design, emphasizing a more “muscular” and professional appearance. While the Terrain looks nice, it sticks to more traditional colors. For drivers in Maumelle who want a vehicle that feels youthful and personalized, the Equinox offers more exciting choices, like the unique Cacti Green paint.
Comfort and Interior
Inside the cabin, both SUVs offer room for five passengers, but the Equinox is designed for everyday ease.
- 2026 Chevy Equinox: Features 29.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to 63.5 cubic feet when you fold them down. It also features an innovative “pass-through” center console that provides extra storage for bags or electronics.
- 2026 GMC Terrain: Offers the exact cargo dimensions at 29.8 and 63.5 cubic feet. However, the Terrain’s interior emphasizes a “premium” feel that often comes with a higher price tag.
The Equinox provides a spacious and airy feel that is perfect for grocery runs in Jacksonville or packing gear for a day at the park in Bryant.
Technology and Features
Chevy and GMC both packed these SUVs with screens, but the Equinox makes high-tech feel simple.
- Technology (Chevy): The Equinox comes standard with a large 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and an 11-inch digital driver display. It features Google built-in, which means you can use voice commands for navigation and music just like you do on your phone.
- Technology (GMC): The Terrain features a larger 15-inch vertical screen. While it is big, some drivers find the Equinox’s horizontal screen easier to use while driving through traffic in Little Rock.
Both SUVs offer wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can stay connected without messy cords.
Performance and Driving
Under the hood, these two SUVs are very similar, but the Equinox is tuned for efficiency.
- 2026 Chevy Equinox Performance: Powered by a 1.5L Turbocharged engine making 175 horsepower and up to 203 lb-ft of torque. It can tow up to 1,500 pounds when equipped with All-Wheel Drive (AWD).
- 2026 GMC Terrain Performance: Uses the same 1.5L Turbo engine with 175 horsepower. Like the Equinox, it offers a choice between a smooth CVT for front-wheel-drive models and an 8-speed automatic for AWD models.
The Equinox is built to be a smooth and steady partner for your daily commute. It provides plenty of “get-up-and-go” for merging onto I-30 or I-430 without burning too much fuel.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Safety is standard on the Equinox, not an expensive add-on.
- Safety (Chevy): Every 2026 Equinox comes with Chevy Safety Assist. This includes Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, and a Following Distance Indicator. It even has Intersection Automatic Emergency Braking, which helps you stay safe at busy Little Rock intersections.
- Safety (GMC): The Terrain offers “GMC Pro Safety,” which has similar features. However, because the Equinox has a lower starting price, you get these life-saving technologies for a better overall value.
Why the Equinox is the Best Value
In Central Arkansas, value matters. The 2026 Chevy Equinox starts at a lower price than the GMC Terrain, but it doesn’t skip out on the features you want. You get the same engine power, the same cargo space, and a beautiful, modern interior while keeping more money in your pocket for your family’s next adventure.
The Verdict: The 2026 Chevy Equinox Wins
While the GMC Terrain is a fine vehicle, the 2026 Chevy Equinox is the more intelligent choice for most drivers in the Little Rock Area. It offers a more customizable design, a very user-friendly tech setup, and incredible safety features at a price that makes sense.
Whether you are looking for the sporty RS trim or the rugged ACTIV model, the Equinox is ready to handle everything Arkansas life throws at it. For those in Cabot, Alexander, or Little Rock, the Equinox provides the best mix of style and practicality.Visit us today at Crain Chevy of Little Rock to check out our new inventory!
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