How Do Starting Prices and Trim Levels Compare Between the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox and 2025 Honda CR-V?

October 16th, 2026 by
A compact Chevrolet Equinox crossover and a rival compact crossover parked side by side in a suburban shopping-centre lot on an overcast day — no text, no logos other than natural vehicle badging, no identifiable faces. (Representative image for illustration purposes only. Actual vehicle may vary based on trim and configuration.)
Representative image for illustration purposes only. Actual vehicle may vary based on trim and configuration.

The 2027 Chevrolet Equinox starts at a lower base price than the 2025 Honda CR-V, offering a more accessible entry point into the compact crossover segment. The base LT trim of the 2027 Equinox has a starting MSRP of $29,300, while the 2025 Honda CR-V LX starts above $31,000. Higher Equinox trims, including the sport-styled RS and rugged ACTIV, carry a starting price of $34,200, whereas top-tier Honda CR-V hybrid models push beyond $40,000.

Chevrolet simplifies the lineup for the 2027 Equinox using a distinct Y-shaped trim strategy. Starting with the well-equipped LT, buyers can branch into either the RS for aggressive black exterior accents, flat-bottom steering wheel, and standard 19-inch wheels, or the ACTIV for off-road-inspired styling, all-terrain tires, and a specially tuned suspension. Both the RS and ACTIV share the same base price, allowing drivers to choose a distinct personality without paying a price premium for one look over another. All-wheel drive is available across the entire lineup, bringing the starting price to $31,300 on the AWD LT and $36,200 on the AWD RS and AWD ACTIV.

The 2025 Honda CR-V divides its lineup between traditional gasoline models—LX, EX, and EX-L—and hybrid configurations like the Sport, Sport-L, and Sport Touring. While Honda reserves many of its upscale features, like larger center touchscreens and leather seating, for higher or hybrid-only trims, Chevrolet includes high-end technology as standard equipment across every single Equinox trim.

For local drivers looking for straight answers and real numbers up front without mystery fees, our team at Newton Chevrolet of Russellville is ready to guide you through every feature. If you want to compare trim levels in person, feel free to visit our Russellville showroom or give our team a quick call to check current vehicle availability.

Table of Contents

How Does 2027 Chevrolet Equinox Engine Performance and Fuel Economy Compare to the 2025 Honda CR-V?

Engine output between these two crossovers reflects distinct mechanical priorities under the hood. The 2027 Chevrolet Equinox powered by the standard 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine generates 175 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque in front-wheel drive, while all-wheel-drive configurations boost torque output to 203 lb-ft. The gas-powered 2025 Honda CR-V uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 190 hp and 179 lb-ft of torque.

A major engineering update for the 2027 Equinox is the replacement of the continuously variable transmission on front-wheel-drive models with a standard Hydra-Matic eight-speed automatic transmission. This shift gives every 2027 Equinox traditional gear shifts, linear acceleration, and a predictable engine response under load. In contrast, the gas-powered Honda CR-V relies exclusively on a continuously variable transmission, which can create engine drone during hard acceleration on highway entry ramps.

Fuel economy ratings remain close across both non-hybrid models. The front-wheel-drive 2027 Equinox delivers an EPA-estimated 25 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, maintaining identical 25 mpg city and 29 mpg highway figures when equipped with all-wheel drive. The gas-powered front-wheel-drive Honda CR-V achieves 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, dropping to 27 mpg city and 32 mpg highway in all-wheel drive.

Towing capability is identical for gas-powered setups. When equipped with all-wheel drive, the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox can tow up to 1,500 lbs, matching the 1,500-pound maximum towing limit of the standard gas CR-V. For drivers in Fort Campbell North commuting to base or pulling small utility trailers for weekend gear, that extra low-end torque from the Equinox AWD setup makes pulling heavy loads feel controlled and steady.

Drivers exploring fully electric alternatives can also browse our new Chevrolet Equinox EV inventory on the lot. For routine maintenance or engine care on your current vehicle, our genuine parts department stays fully stocked with factory-approved components.

Engine & Performance

Powertrain specs by trim

Feature ACTIV 1.5T AWD ACTIV 1.5T AWD LT 1.5T AWD RS 1.5T
Engine 1.5L 1.5L 1.5L 1.5L
Horsepower 175 hp 175 hp 175 hp 175 hp
Torque 184 lb-ft 203 lb-ft 203 lb-ft 203 lb-ft
Transmission Hydra-Matic Hydra-Matic Hydra-Matic Hydra-Matic
Drivetrain Front-wheel drive All-wheel drive All-wheel drive All-wheel drive

Engine & Performance (continued)

Feature LT 1.5T RS 1.5T
Engine 1.5L 1.5L
Horsepower 175 hp 175 hp
Torque 184 lb-ft 184 lb-ft
Transmission Hydra-Matic Hydra-Matic
Drivetrain Front-wheel drive Front-wheel drive

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy and range by trim

Feature ACTIV 1.5T AWD ACTIV 1.5T AWD LT 1.5T AWD RS 1.5T
MPG 25 city / 29 hwy / 27 combined 25 city / 29 hwy / 26 combined 25 city / 29 hwy / 26 combined 25 city / 29 hwy / 26 combined

Fuel Economy (continued)

Feature LT 1.5T RS 1.5T
MPG 25 city / 29 hwy / 27 combined 25 city / 29 hwy / 27 combined

How Do Interior Cargo Space and Passenger Dimensions Compare Between the Equinox and CR-V?

Passenger accommodation and total gear capacity represent a key practical consideration for active buyers comparing compact crossovers. The 2027 Chevrolet Equinox provides generous interior room for five adults, boasting 40 inches of front headroom, 41 inches of front legroom, and a total EPA passenger volume of 104 cubic feet. The 2025 Honda CR-V measures 184.8 inches in overall length compared to the 183.2-inch length of the Equinox, giving the CR-V a slightly longer footprint on the outside.

Behind the second-row seats, the 2027 Equinox offers about 30 cubic feet of dedicated cargo space, expanding to about 63.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume when the 60/40 split-folding rear seats are stowed flat. The Honda CR-V delivers 39 cubic feet behind the second row and up to 77 cubic feet max volume. While the CR-V holds a raw volumetric advantage for bulky gear, the Equinox features a wide rear opening, a low lift-over height, and usable under-floor storage compartments that make packing everyday grocery bags or sporting equipment seamless.

In rear-seat comfort, both vehicles easily seat two adults or three kids across the back bench. Chevrolet equips the Equinox with durable seat fabrics on the LT, bold synthetic leather with red stitching on the RS, and tactile Evotex with sueded microfiber seating surfaces on the ACTIV. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel come standard across the entire 2027 Equinox lineup, whereas Honda reserves heated seating for mid-tier EX trims and above.

For families in Springfield traveling along Robertson County routes for school drop-offs or weekend sports, the Equinox delivers the exact mix of cabin warmth, passenger legroom, and practical rear storage needed for daily life without paying extra for cold-weather comfort packages.

If you are shopping on a specific budget, you can also explore our pre-owned vehicle inventory to compare compact crossovers across different model years.

Dimensions & Capacity

Capacity and dimensions by trim

Feature ACTIV 1.5T AWD ACTIV 1.5T AWD LT 1.5T AWD RS 1.5T
Seating 5 5 5 5
Cargo 29.8 cu ft 29.8 cu ft 29.8 cu ft 29.8 cu ft
Curb weight 3,452 lbs 3,607 lbs 3,583 lbs 3,629 lbs
Towing 1,500 lbs 1,500 lbs 1,500 lbs 1,500 lbs
Payload 1,398 lbs 1,243 lbs 1,267 lbs 1,221 lbs

Dimensions & Capacity (continued)

Feature LT 1.5T RS 1.5T
Seating 5 5
Cargo 29.8 cu ft 29.8 cu ft
Curb weight 3,428 lbs 3,474 lbs
Towing 1,500 lbs 1,500 lbs
Payload 1,422 lbs 1,376 lbs

What Infotainment Screens and Standard Safety Tech Come in the 2027 Equinox vs 2025 CR-V?

In-cabin technology highlights one of the clearest advantages for the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox. Every single 2027 Equinox model comes standard with a massive 11.3-inch diagonal infotainment touchscreen paired with an 11-inch digital driver information center. Google Built-in functionality comes integrated directly into the software, providing seamless access to Google Maps, voice commands, and vehicle apps alongside wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

The 2025 Honda CR-V comes standard with a smaller 7-inch display screen on base LX and EX trims, requiring an upgrade to the EX-L or hybrid models to access a 9-inch touchscreen. When buyers walk around the showroom floor comparing compact crossovers, the question our advisors hear most often is how touchscreen sizes compare when connecting a smartphone on daily commutes, and the massive display setup in the Equinox makes reading navigation cues dramatically easier.

Safety technology is comprehensive on both crossovers, but Chevrolet makes premium driver assistance standard. Every 2027 Equinox features Chevy Safety Assist, a consolidated suite that includes:
– Automatic Emergency Braking
– Front Pedestrian Braking
– Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
– Forward Collision Alert
– Following Distance Indicator
– IntelliBeam auto high beams

In addition to the core safety package, Chevrolet offers over 15 standard safety and driver-assistance features on the Equinox, including Blind Zone Steering Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Braking, and Side Bicyclist Alert. The available Safety & Technology Package adds advanced updates for 2027, such as HD Surround Vision, a rear camera washer, and an interior cabin camera for monitoring the back seat.

Shoppers interested in exploring low-mileage vehicles backed by factory coverage can check out our certified pre-owned inventory to see what tech-equipped models are available today.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Safety and driver-assistance features by trim

All six trims—ACTIV 1.5T, AWD ACTIV 1.5T, AWD LT 1.5T, AWD RS 1.5T, LT 1.5T, and RS 1.5T—come standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features. These include ABS, telematics, advanced auto collision notification, Isofix preparation for child seats, and height-adjustable front seat head restraints, with two head restraints each in the front and rear seats. Front seat belts for both driver and passenger feature pre-tensioners and height adjustability, and all rear seat belts, including the center position, are 3-point types.

Emergency call functionality alongside an accident data recorder are standard across all trims, enhancing post-incident communication and data capture. The anti collision system, branded as Automatic Emergency Braking, is also standard for every trim and includes features such as automatic emergency braking, brake light activation upon collision detection, junction crossing and turning assistance, and pedestrian and cyclist avoidance.

This anti collision system operates at speeds above and below 50 kph (30 mph), activating from a minimum speed of 5 mph. Additionally, low-speed braking capability at the front and rear is indicated as deferred (‘D’) status consistently across all trims, suggesting similar capabilities throughout the lineup. Overall, the standardization of these advanced safety and driver assistance features highlights a uniform commitment to occupant protection across all available trims.

What Are the 5-Year Ownership Projections and Average Maintenance Costs for the Equinox vs CR-V?

Long-term cost of ownership combines factory warranty protection, routine maintenance requirements, depreciation schedules, and predictable service bills over time. The 2027 Chevrolet Equinox comes covered by a 3-year / 36,000-mile basic warranty alongside a 5-year / 60,000-mile powertrain warranty, matching the baseline warranty terms provided on the 2025 Honda CR-V.

When looking at unscheduled service requirements, industry repair data estimates that the average annual maintenance and repair cost for a Chevrolet Equinox runs around $537, while the Honda CR-V estimates average approximately $407 per year. Unscheduled service frequency for both vehicles remains low at roughly 0.3 shop visits annually, meaning both models spend minimal time out of service for mechanical fixes.

Over a 5-year ownership period, total cost projections reflect a balance between initial purchase price and long-term resale value. The lower initial MSRP of the 2027 Equinox—starting at $29,300 compared to higher baseline prices on the CR-V—means buyers save thousands of dollars up front in initial vehicle financing, lowering monthly loan interest and local sales taxes from day one.

Routine care on the 1.5L turbocharged engine in the Equinox requires simple, straightforward maintenance intervals like regular oil changes, tire rotations, and air filter replacements. To keep your crossover running at peak efficiency, you can easily use our online service scheduling tool to set up your next appointment with factory-trained technicians.

If you are planning to upgrade from your current vehicle, our team can help you value your trade-in to see how much equity you can apply directly toward your new crossover.

Pricing

Pricing by trim

Feature ACTIV 1.5T AWD ACTIV 1.5T AWD LT 1.5T AWD RS 1.5T
Base MSRP $34,200 $36,200 $31,300 $36,200
Destination charge $1,995 $1,995 $1,995 $1,995

Pricing (continued)

Feature LT 1.5T RS 1.5T
Base MSRP $29,300 $34,200
Destination charge $1,995 $1,995

How Do the Equinox and CR-V Compare to Top Compact SUV Competitors Like the RAV4 and CX-5?

Expanding your search to include other top segment competitors provides helpful context on overall vehicle value. The Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5 remain two of the most frequently cross-shopped alternatives alongside the Chevrolet Equinox and Honda CR-V.

The Toyota RAV4 emphasizes standard fuel efficiency and available hybrid power, but base gasoline models carry higher starting prices and smaller standard touchscreens than the Equinox. The Mazda CX-5 focuses on sports-car handling and upscale cabin materials, but its tighter rear seat legroom and smaller cargo hold make it less practical for active families who need usable rear storage space.

Compact SUV Model Base Starting Price Standard Touchscreen Size Standard Horsepower Standard Transmission
2027 Chevrolet Equinox $29,300 11.3 inches 175 hp 8-speed automatic
2025 Honda CR-V $31,450 7.0 inches 190 hp CVT
2026 Toyota RAV4 $31,395 8.0 inches 203 hp 8-speed automatic
2026 Mazda CX-5 $30,795 10.25 inches 187 hp 6-speed automatic

The 2027 Chevrolet Equinox stands out against all three rivals by offering the largest standard touchscreen display in its price tier, standard heated front seats, a standard heated steering wheel, and a standard Hydra-Matic eight-speed automatic transmission for under $30,000. It delivers a modern balanced design without forcing buyers to pay extra for essential technology.

To explore purchasing options on a new crossover with real numbers up front and no mystery fees, complete our secure online finance application to get pre-approved before visiting our dealership.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox vs 2025 Honda CR-V

Q: What is the main mechanical change for the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox?

Every 2027 Chevrolet Equinox now comes standard with a Hydra-Matic eight-speed automatic transmission across both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. This replaces the continuously variable transmission previously used on front-wheel-drive models, improving engine responsiveness and standardizing maximum towing capacity at 1,500 lbs across all models.

Q: How do standard touchscreen sizes compare between the Equinox and CR-V?

The 2027 Chevrolet Equinox features a standard 11.3-inch diagonal infotainment touchscreen alongside an 11-inch digital driver information center on every trim level. The 2025 Honda CR-V comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen on LX and EX trims, reserving a 9-inch screen for higher-tier models like the EX-L and hybrids.

Q: What emergency support comes included with a new Chevrolet Equinox purchase?

New Chevrolet vehicles include factory warranty protection and access to roadside coverage. For emergency tire changes, towing, lockouts, or fuel delivery, drivers can connect directly to Chevrolet Roadside Assistance at 1-800-243-8872 for factory-backed support from authorized technicians.

Q: Does the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox come in an off-road styled trim?

Yes, Chevrolet offers the 2027 Equinox ACTIV trim, which features all-terrain tires, a uniquely tuned suspension for rougher surfaces, Evotex seating with sueded microfiber inserts, and distinctive rugged exterior styling at the same $34,200 starting MSRP as the sport-themed RS trim.

Q: How can I test drive the 2027 Equinox at Newton Chevrolet of Russellville?

You can get directions to Newton Chevrolet of Russellville at 452 Hopkinsville Rd, Russellville, KY 42276, or call our team directly at (270) 713-3840. You can also ask our team about the Newton Certified Pre-Owned program to review pre-owned warranty benefits available on our lot.

Take the Next Step at Newton Chevrolet of Russellville

Choosing between the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox and the 2025 Honda CR-V comes down to where you want your dollar to go. While the CR-V offers slightly more total cargo volume, the 2027 Equinox delivers a lower starting purchase price, a standard eight-speed automatic transmission, standard heated seating, and an 11.3-inch infotainment display that beats the CR-V on standard technology.

At Newton Chevrolet of Russellville, our goal is to provide straight answers, clear pricing, and a stress-free vehicle buying process without sales scripts or mystery fees. Whether you want to compare the sport-styled RS, test drive the rugged ACTIV, or explore financing options on an LT, our team is here to help you find the right fit for your family and budget.

Visit our showroom at 452 Hopkinsville Rd in Russellville, browse our online inventory today, or contact our team to schedule your 2027 Chevrolet Equinox test drive.


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