Chevrolet Equinox vs Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox presented a robust SUV character with its broad fenders, squat roofline, and tall grille, accentuated by high-mounted daytime running lights. Despite its car-like unibody, the Equinox's design successfully differentiated itself from rivals that awkwardly blend car and SUV styling cues. The model was available in LT, Activ, and RS trims, each offering unique styling features. The LT featured a chrome grille mesh and 17-inch wheels, while the RS boasted more black trim, a wider grille, and standard 19-inch wheels. The Activ trim dialed up ruggedness with a prominent lower front fascia and all-terrain tires. Inside, the Equinox's cabin, though mostly plastic, was well-assembled with neat details like large air vents and a spear-like trim piece. The Activ model featured unique microfibre and Evotex seats, while the RS offered Evotex upholstery with red stitching and a flat-bottom steering wheel.

The 2026 Lexus NX Hybrid, specifically the NX 350h F Sport 3, was characterized by its over-stylized design, featuring a large, dark spindle grille and squinting LED headlights. The profile was sporty yet less extroverted, with rounded edges and body-coloured fender flares. F Sport elements included dark trim and 20-inch wheels, with the fastback roof shape echoing coupe-like crossovers. Inside, the NX combined a sporty look with modern technology, including a digital instrument cluster and a large touchscreen. The F Sport 3 model featured dark graphite aluminum trim, metal pedals, and Circuit Red synthetic leather upholstery. The NuLuxe textile convincingly mimicked real leather, adding to the upscale feel with soft-touch surfaces adorning the interior.

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox was powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre inline-four-cylinder engine producing 175 horsepower, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in front-wheel drive (FWD) models. All-wheel drive (AWD) models featured an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering 203 lb-ft of torque. The engine's output was adequate, though drivers needed a heavy foot for overtaking. The eight-speed automatic transmission occasionally hesitated to downshift, but steering-wheel paddle shifters helped alleviate this issue. The Equinox's suspension provided a comfortable ride, though quick steering inputs could upset the chassis. It excelled as a highway cruiser, aided by active noise cancellation, though the all-terrain tires on the Activ trim added noise and reduced grip.

The 2026 Lexus NX Hybrid, specifically the NX 350h F Sport 3, featured a hybrid powertrain with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and three electric motors, delivering 240 horsepower. The hybrid system provided standard AWD, with a 7.2-second 0 to 96 km/h acceleration time. The power delivery was not particularly exhilarating, and the drivetrain felt slushy, though it was quick enough for traffic. The NX's adaptive dampers offered Normal and Sport settings, with a firm but comfortable ride. The steering was weighty, but feedback was limited. The NX 450h plug-in hybrid offered more power at 340 hp for those seeking a thrifty option with more grunt.

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox offered nearly identical headroom and first-row legroom to its competitors, though some rivals provided slightly more rear-seat legroom. The seats were supportive but under-cushioned. The Equinox Activ test car featured a Convenience Package III, adding a power-adjustable front passenger seat, ventilated front seats, and heated rear seats. The driver enjoyed an elevated perch, though forward visibility was somewhat limited. The Equinox provided ample storage space, including a wireless phone charger and a spacious centre console. Cargo space was 844 litres behind the rear seats and 1,798 litres with the rear seats folded, though these figures lagged behind segment leaders.

The 2026 Lexus NX Hybrid's F Sport 3 model offered well-bolstered front seats with ample room, even for tall adults. Power seat and steering wheel adjustments ensured comfort, complemented by heated and ventilated front seats and dual-zone climate control. The rear seat accommodated average-sized adults, though legroom was limited for taller passengers. The NX's cargo space was relatively low for its class, with 643 litres behind the rear seats and 1,328 litres with the seats folded. The coupe-like roof shape contributed to the limited cargo space, though it remained practical for everyday use.

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox offered good value with an 11-inch digital instrument cluster and 11.3-inch touchscreen, featuring an Android-based infotainment system with Google built-in apps. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were retained, and the system was user-friendly with easy-to-identify icons. The Equinox's screen size was larger than some competitors, providing clear icons and text without dominating the cabin. However, it lacked options for a head-up display or a more elaborate audio system.

The 2026 Lexus NX Hybrid came standard with a 9.8-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch touchscreen, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A head-up display and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system were optional. The NX included a three-year Remote Connect subscription, allowing remote starting and vehicle status alerts. The infotainment system was responsive, with a volume dial and embedded temperature controls for ease of use.

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox came standard with driver assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and blind spot monitoring. GM-specific features included a vibrating driver's seat and the Teen Driver system. The Safety and Technology Package added a surround-view camera system and traffic sign recognition. The Equinox received mixed safety ratings from the IIHS, with Good ratings in most tests but an Acceptable rating in the small overlap front test.

The 2026 Lexus NX Hybrid earned the highest Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and performed well in crash tests. It came standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite, including adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. Optional features included automatic parking and a surround-view camera system. All systems worked as advertised, though the adaptive cruise control was somewhat complicated to set.