2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV vs Equinox Gasoline: Powertrain Choice for Québec SUV Shoppers

If you're shopping for a compact SUV in Québec, the Equinox nameplate now offers two distinct powertrain paths: the all-electric Equinox EV and the gasoline-powered Equinox. Both deliver capable performance and modern technology, but differ fundamentally in power delivery, costs, and how they fit into daily life across the province's varied terrain and climate.

This guide compares the two side by side - purchase price, operating costs, charging versus refuelling, and real-world considerations for Québec drivers.

Powertrain Comparison

The gasoline Equinox uses a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder producing 175 hp, paired with a CVT for front-wheel drive or an eight-speed automatic for all-wheel drive. It's a proven setup focused on efficiency and versatility.

The Equinox EV replaces the engine with an electric propulsion system. In front-wheel drive, it produces 220 hp and 243 lb-ft of torque. The dual-motor all-wheel drive configuration delivers 300 hp and 355 lb-ft - enough for confident highway merging and winter traction. Both EV drivetrains use a single-speed electric drive unit, delivering instant torque from a standstill.

Powertrain Specs at a Glance

The EV's electric motors deliver power differently - no rev buildup or transmission shifts, just linear, immediate acceleration. For city driving and highway on-ramps, this means smoother, quieter progress. The gasoline Equinox offers familiar refuelling and no range planning for longer trips.

Interior and Cargo Space

Both variants seat five and share identical dimensions: 4,840 mm long, 1,954 mm wide, 1,646 mm tall, with a 2,954 mm wheelbase and 163 mm ground clearance suitable for Québec's winter roads.

Cargo volume differs slightly. The Equinox EV offers 748 litres behind the second row, expanding to 1,620 litres with seats folded. The gasoline Equinox provides 1,798 litres maximum - about 180 litres more. Both handle weekly groceries, hockey gear, and weekend trips easily.

Passenger space is identical: 1,058 mm front legroom, 965 mm rear legroom, with generous shoulder room. Families with car seats or taller passengers will find either version comfortable.

Technology and Features

Both Equinox models share Chevrolet's latest technology suite: a 17.7-inch touchscreen running Google built-in services (Maps, Assistant, Play Store), an 11-inch driver display, 5G Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless phone charging (standard on RS, available on LT), SiriusXM 360L, and OnStar with remote start.

The EV adds electric-specific features: One Pedal Driving mode using regenerative braking to slow the vehicle when you lift off the accelerator, and Regen on Demand via steering-wheel paddles. These let you modulate deceleration and recapture energy without touching the brake pedal - useful in stop-and-go traffic or descending hills.

Super Cruise, GM's hands-free driver assistance system, is available on both models and works on compatible highways including Autoroute 20 and 40.

Safety Comparison

Chevrolet Safety Assist comes standard on both models, including Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian and Bicyclist Braking, Intersection Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Following Distance Indicator, Forward Collision Alert, IntelliBeam automatic high beams, Blind Zone Steering Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Braking, Rear Park Assist, Reverse Automatic Braking, HD Surround Vision, and Traffic Sign Recognition.

The EV's instant torque and lower centre of gravity (battery pack mounted low) can improve stability in emergency manoeuvres, but both vehicles meet the same federal safety standards and offer identical active safety technology.

Charging vs Refuelling: What It Means for Your Routine

The gasoline Equinox refuels in five minutes at any station. The 56-litre tank delivers roughly 636 km range. For buyers taking frequent long trips, towing occasionally, or lacking home charging access, this simplicity is hard to beat.

The Equinox EV requires a different approach. At home, a Level 2 charger (240V) fully replenishes the battery overnight. Most Québec drivers charge while sleeping, starting each day with a full battery - no gas station stops required.

Public charging is widely available across Québec. The Electric Circuit network operates over 2,000 fast-charging stations province-wide. A 30-minute DC fast charge adds enough range to continue most trips. However, charging takes longer than refuelling, and in very cold weather, charging speeds slow and range decreases 20% to 30%.

For typical Québec commutes - Montréal to Laval, Québec City to Lévis, or daily errands around Sherbrooke - the EV's rated range of up to 513 km (FWD) or 494 km (AWD) covers several days between charges. If daily mileage stays under 100 km and you can charge at home, the EV fits smoothly. If you frequently drive 300+ km daily or lack charging access, the gas model removes range anxiety.

The Verdict

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV and gasoline Equinox serve different buyer profiles despite sharing the Equinox nameplate.

Choose the Equinox EV if you have reliable home charging, drive primarily within Québec's urban and suburban areas, and want to eliminate fuel costs and reduce maintenance. The instant torque, quiet operation, and lower long-term operating costs make it ideal for daily commuters and families who rarely venture beyond the province's well-developed charging network.

Choose the gasoline Equinox if you need maximum flexibility for long trips, tow occasionally, or lack home charging access. The lower purchase price, faster refuelling, and traditional driving experience suit buyers who prioritize simplicity and range without planning.

Both are capable, well-equipped compact SUVs.

Visit Chevrolet Buick GMC de l'Île-Perrot to compare both Equinox powertrains in person and discuss which configuration fits your driving needs and budget.