Two compact SUVs dominate the conversation on Vancouver Island: the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox and the 2026 Honda CR-V. Both are popular, both handle five passengers, and both hold up in the rain that British Columbia delivers with regularity. But buyers in Duncan who look at the spec sheets closely will find the Equinox offers more where it counts — more screen, more cargo space with the seats up, and a safety suite that actively helps you steer clear of trouble.

This comparison lays out the key differences without any spin. From logging roads to Highway 1 to school drop-off routes, the right SUV depends on the facts — and the facts favour the Equinox.

At a Glance: 2026 Equinox vs. 2026 CR-V

Feature	2026 Chevrolet Equinox	2026 Honda CR-V (Gas)
Engine	1.5L Turbo 4-cylinder	1.5L Turbo 4-cylinder
Horsepower	175 hp	190 hp
Torque (AWD)	203 lb-ft	179 lb-ft
Max Cargo (seats up)	1,798 L	1,113 L
Infotainment Screen	11.3 inches	9 inches
Towing Capacity	1,500 lbs (680 kg) AWD	1,499 lbs (680 kg) AWD
AWD	Available	Available

Power and Efficiency

The Equinox uses a 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder producing 175 hp and 203 lb-ft of torque in AWD configuration, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. That torque figure gives the Equinox a meaningful pull advantage over the CR-V’s 179 lb-ft, particularly when accelerating onto Island highways or heading up a grade with a full load.

The CR-V’s gas variant produces 190 hp — a slight horsepower edge — but pairs with a CVT that some drivers find less engaging on winding routes around the Cowichan Valley.

Fuel economy comparison for AWD models:

• Equinox AWD: 9.6 L/100 km city / 8.1 L/100 km highway
• CR-V AWD gas: 9.1 L/100 km city / 7.6 L/100 km highway

The CR-V returns better fuel numbers on the highway, though the margin is modest. Drivers who prioritize torque, a traditional automatic transmission, and the full 1,798 L of cargo will find the Equinox the stronger everyday tool.

Interior, Cargo, and Versatility

With the rear seats in use, the Equinox offers considerably more cargo room than the CR-V — 1,798 L maximum versus the CR-V’s 1,113 L with passengers on board. That difference is meaningful for families in Duncan who regularly load gear, groceries, or sports equipment.

Both vehicles offer 60/40 split-folding rear seats. The Equinox adds a hidden storage compartment under the rear cargo floor — useful for keeping valuables out of sight.

The CR-V gas model extends its total cargo depth further with seats fully folded (2,166 L), but the Equinox’s advantage with passengers aboard reflects more day-to-day utility.

Technology

The 2026 Equinox comes standard with an 11.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display and an 11-inch digital Driver Information Centre. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are included on every trim, along with Google built-in compatibility and 5G vehicle connectivity.

The CR-V starts with a 9-inch touchscreen — functional, but the size difference between the two is apparent from the driver’s seat.

Additional standard Equinox tech:

• Wi-Fi hotspot capability
• OnStar services capable with remote access
• Wireless phone charging available

Safety

Chevrolet Safety Assist comes standard on the Equinox and covers: Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian and Bicyclist Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Following Distance Indicator, and IntelliBeam automatic high beams. Blind Zone Steering Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control are also standard.

The CR-V carries Honda Sensing across all trims: Collision Mitigation Braking, Lane Keeping Assist, Road Departure Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Blind Spot Information.

The Equinox’s Blind Zone Steering Assist actively inputs steering correction when a vehicle is detected in the blind zone — a feature that adds a layer of confidence on British Columbia’s busier commuter routes.

The Right Choice for Duncan Drivers

If maximising cargo space with passengers aboard, getting a larger infotainment screen at no extra cost, and having a safety system that steers rather than just warns are priorities — the 2026 Equinox earns the decision.

The CR-V is a solid compact SUV, but the Equinox delivers more on the specifications that matter most for drivers on Vancouver Island.

Explore the 2026 Equinox at Island Chevrolet Buick GMC

The team at Island Chevrolet Buick GMC in Duncan has the 2026 Equinox across the LT, ACTIV, and RS trims — each built for a different kind of driver. Head in to see how the lineup fits your day, and take one out on the Island roads that you know best.