Chevrolet Equinox vs Lexus TX

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox presented a robust SUV character with its broad fenders, squat roofline, and tall grille, complemented by high-mounted daytime running lights. Despite its car-like unibody, the Equinox successfully embodied a distinct SUV aesthetic, avoiding the clichés often seen in its segment. Available in LT, Activ, and RS trims, each offered unique styling features, such as chrome grille mesh and varying wheel sizes. Inside, the Equinox's cabin, though primarily plastic, was well-assembled with thoughtful details like large air vents and a spear-like trim piece. The Activ model stood out with its Maple Sugar and black two-tone treatment and unique seating materials.

The 2026 Lexus TX, available in various packages, showcased a large grille reminiscent of the older spindle design, paired with sharp bi-LED headlights and rear LED lighting spanning the vehicle's width. The interior offered three colour options and ambient lighting, though material quality fell short of luxury standards. Redesigned door handles, which reacted to pressure rather than pulling out, were a notable change. The TX's interior was spacious, with a third row that accommodated adults comfortably, and the front seats, while roomy, lacked thigh support. The cargo space was impressive, with up to 2,747 litres available when all rear seats were folded.

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox was powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre inline-four-cylinder engine producing 175 horsepower, paired with a CVT in FWD models and an eight-speed automatic in AWD versions. The AWD models offered 203 lb-ft of torque, providing adequate performance for highway driving, though the transmission occasionally hesitated to downshift. The Equinox's suspension, featuring MacPherson struts at the front and a four-link rear, delivered a comfortable ride but lacked body control in quick maneuvers. Despite its off-road drive mode, the Equinox's ground clearance was modest, and its all-terrain tires added noise without significant off-road capability.

The Lexus TX 350 featured a 275-horsepower 2.4-litre turbocharged engine, while the TX 500h hybrid increased output to 366 hp. The gas model used an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the hybrid employed a six-speed automatic. Both models offered AWD, with the TX 500h utilizing Lexus's Direct4 system for torque distribution. Drive modes included Normal, Eco, and Sport, with Sport mode enhancing throttle response. The TX 500h also featured adaptive suspension and rear steering for improved handling, though it wasn't designed as a sports car.

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox provided competitive headroom and first-row legroom, though rear-seat legroom was slightly less than some rivals. The seats were supportive but under-cushioned. The Convenience Package III added features like a power-adjustable front passenger seat and heated rear seats. The Equinox offered 844 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,798 litres with the seats folded. Its towing capacity was 680 kilograms for AWD models.

The Lexus TX boasted three-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and a spacious third row with a recline function. The second row featured captain's chairs with a removable console, though folding them flat was cumbersome. The TX offered 572 litres of cargo space with all seats up, expanding to 2,747 litres with all rear seats folded. It could tow up to 2,268 kilograms when properly equipped.

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox came with an 11-inch digital instrument cluster and an 11.3-inch touchscreen, featuring an Android-based infotainment system with Google built-in apps. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with easy-to-use icons and a shallow menu structure. The Equinox lacked options for a head-up display or advanced audio systems but provided a clear and functional tech setup.

The Lexus TX featured a 14-inch touchscreen, though some functions lacked polish, such as satellite radio station input. Steering wheel buttons controlled various functions but were confusing to use. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though connectivity issues occurred. The TX offered a back-up camera with a bird’s-eye view and an Advanced Park system. It included seven USB ports and wireless charging, with an available 120-volt outlet in the second row.

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox included standard driver assistance features like automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist. It also offered GM-specific features like a vibrating driver's seat and the Teen Driver system. 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 Lexus TX came with Safety System+ 3.0, including features like forward collision warning and lane tracing assist. The adaptive cruise control worked well once set up, though it was initially confusing. The TX received five-star crash safety ratings from the NHTSA and mixed ratings from the IIHS, with an Acceptable score in the small overlap front test.