Few vehicles in Chevrolet’s lineup present buyers with a choice as basic as the Equinox does. One version runs on gasoline and fits the refueling routine most Americans already know. The other, the Equinox EV, runs on electricity and asks buyers to think about charging at home. Shoppers looking at a 2028 model are weighing both, and the same questions keep coming up: Is the gas model getting redesigned? Will the EV get a successor? How far can each one go?
Chevrolet has not officially announced 2028 Chevy Equinox specifications, pricing, release dates or trim lineups for either model. The current generation gives shoppers a reliable baseline. Industry reporting points to a next-generation Equinox EV around late 2028 or early 2029, but that remains unconfirmed by Chevrolet. The rest of this article separates what’s confirmed, what’s reported and what’s still unknown.
2028 Chevy Equinox
What Is Changing for the New Model Year?
Both versions are on sale in their current generations, and they don’t share an underlying architecture. The gasoline Equinox and the Equinox EV should not be assumed to update on the same schedule, because each runs on different hardware and software.
For the gasoline model, Chevrolet’s current-generation design is the reference point for any 2028 discussion. Expect model-year changes to focus on trim content, infotainment software, safety features and color options. Those are common ways automakers refresh a crossover mid-generation, but Chevrolet hasn’t said which, if any, will apply to 2028.
For the EV, the story is more open. Reports have described a next-generation electric Equinox, but the details come from industry sources, not from an official Chevrolet announcement.
2028 could matter for the lineup because it may be the first model year in which buyers see clearer differences between the two versions. Whether that happens depends on decisions Chevrolet hasn’t made public.
A complete, data-driven look at the Equinox gas and electric versions. Figures are labeled by reliability: Confirmed Approx. Historical Estimate Speculation.
1.Gas vs. EV: Side-by-Side Specs
The gas and electric Equinox share a crossover body style and a similar footprint but use entirely different powertrains. The table below compares current versions.
Gas Equinox
Combined, FWD 1.5L turbo-4 Approx.
Equinox EV
About 100+ MPGe, 85 kWh battery Approx.
| Category | Gas Equinox (current) | Equinox EV (current) | Label |
|---|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder | 85 kWh battery, single or dual motor | Approx. |
| Power | ~175 hp | ~220 hp (FWD) / ~300 hp (AWD) | Approx. |
| Torque | ~203 lb-ft | Instant peak torque, higher than gas (approx.) | Approx. |
| Efficiency | ~26–28 mpg combined | ~3.3–3.8 mi/kWh (~100–115 MPGe) | Approx. |
| Driving range | ~400 mi from a full tank (estimated) | Up to ~319 mi EPA (top configuration) | Approx. |
| Refuel / recharge | About 5 minutes at the pump | DC fast charge 10–80% in ~35–45 min; home Level 2 overnight | Approx. |
| Drivetrain options | FWD, or AWD | FWD, or dual-motor AWD | Confirmed model structure |
| Scheduled maintenance | Oil changes, filters, spark plugs, transmission service | No oil changes; tires, brakes (less wear), cabin filter, coolant | Estimate |
| Ground clearance | ~8 in | ~7.5–8 in | Approx. |
2.Power Comparison (Bar Chart)
Horsepower by configuration. Scale maximum is 320 hp.
Approx. Figures are rounded from published ranges and vary by model year and trim. The EV’s instant torque gives it a stronger feel off the line than the horsepower figures alone suggest.
3.Price and Trims
Starting prices are before destination charges (approx. $1,700–$2,000). The 2028 column is an estimate that assumes typical annual increases of roughly 3–5%.
| Trim | Powertrain | Approx. starting MSRP | 2028 Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| LS | Gas FWD | ~$29,000 | ~$31,000 Estimate |
| LT | Gas FWD/AWD | ~$31,800 | ~$33,500 Estimate |
| Premier | Gas AWD | ~$38,500 | ~$41,000 Estimate |
| 1LT | EV FWD | ~$34,600 | ~$36,500 Estimate |
| 2LT | EV FWD/AWD | ~$37,500 | ~$39,500 Estimate |
| 3LT | EV AWD | ~$41,000 | ~$43,000 Estimate |
2028 Estimated Starting Price ($K)
Scale maximum is $50K. Striped bars indicate estimates. The EV-to-gas price gap at similar trim levels is roughly $5,000–$7,000 today (Approx.), and that gap is the main factor in the payback calculation below.
4.Range and Charging
Range Comparison (miles)
Approx.
Approx.
Estimate
Estimate
Real-world EV range depends heavily on speed, temperature, cabin heating, and terrain. Cold weather can reduce range noticeably. The highway and cold-weather figures are estimates, not test results.
Where Owners Typically Charge (Assumed Mix)
Charging Time Guide
| Method | Typical time | Label |
|---|---|---|
| DC fast charger, 10–80% | ~35–45 min | Approx. |
| Level 2 (240V), 10–100% | ~8–10 hours | Approx. |
| Level 1 (120V), 10–100% | Multiple days; for occasional top-ups only | Approx. |
5.Running Cost and Payback Calculator
Five-year fuel cost at default inputs (15,000 mi/yr, $3.20/gal, $0.17/kWh, 28 mpg, 3.5 mi/kWh):
Approx.
Approx.
Interactive Calculator
6.AWD Features and Hardware
| Feature | Gas AWD | EV AWD (dual motor) | Label |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drive system | On-demand AWD that sends power to the rear axle when slip is detected | Front and rear electric motors with continuous torque control | Approx. |
| Added price | ~$1,700–$2,200 over FWD | ~$2,000–$3,000 over FWD (trim-dependent) | Approx. |
| Efficiency penalty | ~1–2 mpg lower than FWD | ~5–10% less range than FWD | Estimate |
| Traction | Improves launches and wet or snowy roads | Very fast, precise torque response for slip control | Estimate |
| Towing | Modest rating, roughly 1,500 lb | Limited or none; check the spec sheet | Approx. |
| Maintenance | Extra differential/transfer fluid service at intervals | Rear drive unit requires less service than a gas AWD system | Estimate |
AWD Efficiency Impact (Gas, mpg)
Scale maximum is 30 mpg. AWD is best for drivers in snow, rain, or hilly terrain. For mostly dry-road commuting, FWD gives better efficiency and a lower price.
7.Timeline and Outlook
Equinox EV revealed as Chevrolet’s first electric crossover on GM’s Ultium platform.
Equinox EV goes on sale; redesigned gas Equinox introduced for the 2025 model year.
Federal EV tax credit ends for vehicles acquired after this date under the 2025 federal budget law. Verify current status before buying.
Likely software updates, minor trim adjustments, and price changes. Mid-cycle refreshes are common for GM crossovers.
Pricing near the estimates in Section 3, with modest range and charging gains if current software trends continue.
A lower-cost LFP battery option or a larger pack is possible, but GM has not confirmed either.
8.Incentives and Ownership Costs
Federal EV credit
Ended for vehicles acquired after Sept 30, 2025. Historical
State and utility rebates
Vary widely by state and utility, and some are still available. Approx.
Home charger install
Typically ~$700–$1,800 for a Level 2 charger with installation. Approx.
Insurance, depreciation, and resale value also affect total cost of ownership. EV resale value has been less predictable than gas crossovers’ in recent years. Estimate
9.Who Should Choose Which
Choose the Gas Equinox if you:
- Drive long distances without reliable charging
- Live in an apartment or can’t install a home charger
- Want the lower purchase price
- Tow occasionally
Choose the Equinox EV if you:
- Can charge at home every night
- Drive under about 250 miles on a typical day
- Drive a lot, so fuel savings add up quickly
- Want strong acceleration and quiet operation
10.Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an official 2028 Chevy Equinox?
Speculation GM has not published official 2028 Equinox specifications, pricing, or range. All 2028 figures here are estimates based on current trends.
How far can the Equinox EV go on one charge?
Approx. Up to about 319 miles EPA on the top configuration. Real-world range is often lower in cold weather or at highway speeds.
Is the gas or EV Equinox cheaper to run?
Estimate At default inputs in the calculator, the EV saves roughly $1,000 per year in energy cost. Savings depend heavily on electricity rates, gas prices, and how much you drive.
Do I need AWD?
Estimate Most drivers in dry or mild climates do not. AWD helps in snow, heavy rain, and on steep unpaved roads, and costs about 1–2 mpg or 5–10% of EV range.
Does the Equinox EV qualify for a federal tax credit?
Historical The federal credit ended for vehicles acquired after September 30, 2025. Check current state incentives and your tax situation.
2028 Chevy Equinox Release Date
No official release date has been announced for either the 2028 gasoline Equinox or a 2028 Equinox EV. Any specific date online should be treated as unverified. Model-year naming creates confusion. Automakers typically introduce new model years in the months before or during the prior calendar year, so a 2028 model could appear in showrooms in 2027 or 2028. That’s general industry practice, not a Chevrolet commitment.
The EV successor reports suggest a possible late-2028 or early-2029 arrival. If that timing holds, the next-generation EV might be sold as a 2029 model, while the current EV could continue into a later model year. Keep the gasoline and electric timelines separate when you plan.To track official timing, watch Chevrolet’s newsroom at media.chevrolet.com and GM’s global newsroom at media.gm.com.
2028 Chevy Equinox Price
No official 2028 MSRP has been published for either model, and this article doesn’t offer an estimate. Use current model-year pricing on Chevrolet’s build-and-price tools as the reference point, and remember that the sticker is only part of the cost.
For the gasoline model, the current lineup includes several trims, with AWD available on applicable configurations. Compare base and higher trims, plus any packages like RS or ACTIV styling, and check whether AWD is listed as a separate option. Destination charges, taxes and dealer fees all add to the out-the-door total.
For the Equinox EV, pricing depends on trim, drivetrain and any available incentives. Federal incentives have changed, and the federal EV tax credit ended for vehicles acquired after September 30, 2025, according to my understanding. State and utility incentives may still apply, so verify what’s available where you live.
Ownership costs also differ. A gas SUV carries fuel, oil changes and routine engine maintenance. An EV carries electricity, tire wear and insurance, which can vary by model and region. Buyers with lower annual mileage may see the gasoline model’s lower upfront price as the better value, while buyers who drive more and can charge at home may find the EV’s running costs more attractive.
2028 Chevy Equinox Gas Model
The current gasoline Equinox carries a modern SUV design with LED lighting and trim-specific styling. Features such as the grille, headlight and taillight designs, wheel choices and body proportions are all part of the current generation. Check Chevrolet’s current exterior photos and specifications to confirm which features are standard on each trim.
Expectations for 2028 include minor changes to lighting graphics, wheel designs and colors. Refreshes often revise these details. A larger redesign would be more significant, but no official source has confirmed one for the gasoline model.
Unofficial renderings circulate widely. Some are created by fans or artists, and others are generated by AI. None of them shows a factory-approved design, and they shouldn’t be used as evidence of a confirmed redesign.
2028 Chevy Equinox Engine, Horsepower and Performance
The current gasoline Equinox uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Check Chevrolet’s specifications for the exact horsepower and torque figures on each configuration. The engine pairs with an automatic transmission, and front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available on applicable trims.
For everyday driving, a turbocharged four-cylinder typically delivers strong low-speed response, which helps when merging or climbing hills with passengers and cargo. Its character differs from a larger V6 or naturally aspirated engine, and buyers who want the most effortless highway passing may want to test-drive the model with a full load.
Competitors offer similar setups. The Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V each use their own engine and transmission combinations, and some offer hybrid versions. Compare the exact engines and drivetrains for each model year rather than relying on general claims.
No new engine or unannounced horsepower increase has been confirmed for 2028. Efficiency improvements are possible in any refresh, but they aren’t confirmed.
2028 Chevy Equinox MPG
Fuel economy is the top priority for many gasoline SUV buyers. The EPA rates vehicles separately for city, highway and combined driving. The combined figure gives a useful overall comparison, but your results will depend on how you drive.
Front-wheel-drive versions generally rate higher than AWD versions because they carry less weight and fewer driveline components. Check fueleconomy.gov for the exact figures for each model year, drivetrain and trim, rather than relying on rounded numbers from advertisements.
Real-world fuel consumption differs from EPA estimates. Cold weather, short trips, heavy loads, roof racks, high speeds and aggressive driving can all reduce efficiency. Track your own fill-ups over several months, since your results will tell you more than any average. Official 2028 EPA ratings are not available. Any future improvement would need to appear in an EPA rating before it can be treated as fact.
Will the 2028 Chevy Equinox Get a Hybrid Version?
Not confirmed. As of this article’s research date, Chevrolet has not announced a hybrid Equinox. Treat any reports or enthusiast forum posts about a 2028 hybrid as speculation until GM confirms them. The case for one is easy to see. Buyers are increasingly interested in fuel-efficient SUVs, and competitors such as the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Honda CR-V Hybrid have built loyal followings. A conventional hybrid can offer strong city efficiency because the electric motor handles low-speed driving and regenerative braking recovers energy during deceleration.
If a hybrid arrived, it might fill the gap between the gasoline model and the EV. A buyer who wants fewer fuel stops but isn’t ready to plug in could find a hybrid appealing. Still, that scenario is hypothetical. GM hasn’t said whether a hybrid fits its Equinox plans. Compare the RAV4 Hybrid and CR-V Hybrid on official EPA ratings and warranty terms if a hybrid is your priority today.
2028 Chevy Equinox Interior, Technology and Safety
The current interior includes a central touchscreen, digital instrument displays and smartphone connectivity. Verify which trims offer wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Google built-in, since those features vary by trim and package.
Wireless charging, rear climate controls, front-seat comfort and cargo space are the features buyers often compare most closely. Check Chevrolet’s official specifications for rear-seat legroom, cargo volume with the seats up and down, and any available storage upgrades. Confirm the exact dimensions from official data before comparing them with competitors.
Chevrolet’s safety and driver-assistance technologies are marketed under its safety suite. Verify which features are standard, optional and trim-dependent, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance and blind-spot monitoring. Check NHTSA crash test data at nhtsa.gov and IIHS results at iihs.org for the specific model year rather than relying on older ratings.
Interior improvements for 2028 are reasonable to expect, such as updated software or minor layout changes. They haven’t been confirmed, so treat any new feature as speculative until Chevrolet announces it.
2028 Chevy Equinox EV
The current Equinox EV is a battery-electric SUV, separate from the gasoline model. The next-generation Equinox EV is a different question. Industry reports have described a successor with a new EV architecture, possibly arriving in late 2028 or early 2029. Chevrolet hasn’t confirmed those details.
Reports and analysts have discussed several possible changes:
- New architecture: A dedicated EV platform could improve packaging, cabin space and efficiency.
- Battery chemistry: Lower-cost lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells have been discussed for some GM EVs, though their use in this model isn’t confirmed.
- Software and electronics: A newer electrical architecture could support more advanced infotainment and driver-assistance features.
- Weight and efficiency: Better packaging and battery integration might reduce mass and improve range, but neither is confirmed.
Buyers choosing between the current EV and a possible successor should weigh their timeline. A buyer who needs an EV now can evaluate the current model’s range, charging and warranty. A buyer willing to wait should understand that no date or specifications are official.
2028 Chevy Equinox EV Range and Battery
Driving range is the first question many EV shoppers ask. The EPA’s estimate on fueleconomy.gov is the most reliable figure for the current model and each configuration. Compare those estimates for the exact trim and drivetrain you’re considering.
Several factors affect real-world range:
- Cold weather: Battery efficiency drops in low temperatures, and cabin heating can reduce range further.
- Highway speed: Sustained high speeds use more energy than city driving, where regenerative braking recovers some power.
- Drivetrain: AWD configurations often have lower range than comparable FWD versions because of added weight and drivetrain components.
- Load and terrain: Heavy cargo, passengers and hills all draw more power.
A next-generation battery could increase range, reduce cost or improve charging speed, but none of those outcomes is confirmed for 2028. Any future range figure should come from an official EPA rating.
Battery warranty terms matter as much as range. Check Chevrolet’s warranty documentation for the battery’s coverage period and any mileage limit, and compare terms across models.
A longer-range EV would benefit commuters who want fewer charging stops during the week and drivers who take regular road trips. For most daily driving, the current range may already be enough, but the details depend on your routine.
2028 Chevy Equinox EV Charging Time and Charging Technology
Charging is where many first-time EV buyers need the most guidance.
Home Level 1 charging uses a standard 120-volt outlet. It’s the slowest option, adding a modest amount of range overnight. It can suffice for buyers who drive short distances.
Home Level 2 charging uses a 240-volt circuit, similar to what an electric dryer uses. It’s faster and is the most common home setup for EV owners. Installation costs vary, so get quotes from a licensed electrician.
Public DC fast charging adds range quickly, which is useful on road trips. Charging speeds depend on the vehicle, the charger, battery temperature and state of charge. Charging usually slows as the battery approaches full, so the time from 10 to 80 percent is more useful for planning than the time to 100 percent.
The current Equinox EV uses the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, which provides access to many fast-charging networks. Verify which model years have NACS, whether adapters are included and which networks are compatible in your area.
Maximum charging power is a peak figure reached under ideal conditions. Actual charging time depends on the charger, weather, the battery’s temperature and how much energy you need. Check official charging information from Chevrolet and the charging networks you plan to use.
Charging costs vary with electricity rates. Home rates, public charger pricing and time-of-use plans can change the cost per mile, so compare them with local gasoline prices before deciding.
2028 Chevy Equinox EV AWD and Performance
Electric motors deliver torque immediately, which gives EVs strong low-speed acceleration. Drivers often notice that response most when merging or passing. The current Equinox EV is offered with front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. Check Chevrolet’s site to confirm which trims and drivetrains are available for each model year.
AWD adds traction on wet, snowy or loose surfaces by sending power to both axles as needed. It doesn’t improve braking or stop a vehicle faster on ice, and tires matter more than drivetrain for winter traction. Many buyers in snowy regions pair AWD with winter tires. The tradeoff is efficiency. AWD configurations usually have added weight and drivetrain losses, which can lower range. Compare FWD and AWD ratings on fueleconomy.gov to see the difference for each model year.
No 2028 performance figures or new drivetrain configurations are confirmed. Any future claims should come from Chevrolet or independent testing.
2028 Chevy Equinox Gas vs. EV
The right choice depends on how and where you drive. The table below highlights the practical differences.
| Category | Gas Equinox | Equinox EV |
|---|---|---|
| Power source | Gasoline | Electricity |
| Refueling | Gas stations | Home charging, public chargers |
| Operating cost | Fuel expenses | Electricity expenses |
| Driving range | Based on tank size and fuel economy | Based on battery size and EPA range |
| Maintenance | Engine oil, filters, transmission service | Tires, brakes, cabin systems, EV-specific items |
| Long-distance travel | Familiar gas-station network | Requires charging planning |
| Home energy setup | Not required | Home charging is strongly recommended |
| AWD | Available on applicable trims | Available on applicable configurations |
| Best for | Buyers who want traditional refueling | Drivers ready for home charging and electric driving |
Neither version is universally better. Start with these questions:
- How much do you drive? High annual mileage can shift the math toward an EV, while low mileage favors the lower purchase price of a gas model.
- Can you charge at home? Home charging is the most convenient and often the least expensive way to power an EV.
- What do gasoline and electricity cost locally? Compare your utility rate and the price per gallon in your area.
- How often do you drive long distances? Frequent road trips may favor a gas model unless you plan charging stops carefully.
- What does insurance cost? Quotes for each model can differ significantly.
- Do you have reliable public charging nearby? Local infrastructure matters more for EV owners who can’t charge at home.
2028 Chevy Equinox vs. Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V
The Equinox competes with two of the most popular compact SUVs in the country. Each brings different strengths.
Pricing: Compare current trims on each brand’s official site, including destination charges. Future pricing for any model is unconfirmed.
Interior practicality: Check official cargo volumes and rear-seat dimensions for each model year. Test them with your own gear and car seats.
Powertrain options: The Equinox offers gasoline and electric versions. The RAV4 and CR-V both offer gasoline engines and hybrid versions on current trims. Verify which configurations are available where you live.
Fuel economy: Compare EPA ratings on fueleconomy.gov for the same model year and drivetrain. Hybrids often perform best in city driving.
Hybrid availability: The RAV4 Hybrid and CR-V Hybrid are current options. A hybrid Equinox has not been confirmed.
Technology and AWD: Compare standard and optional features, including infotainment, driver-assistance equipment and AWD availability on each trim.
EV alternatives: Compare the Equinox EV with other electric SUVs in the same price range using current official specifications.
Buyers who want familiar refueling and a traditional gas SUV may prefer the Equinox gas model, the RAV4 or the CR-V. Buyers who want electric driving may compare the Equinox EV with other battery-electric SUVs. Those who want better fuel economy without plugging in may find a hybrid competitor the most practical option today.
Should You Wait for the 2028 Chevy Equinox?
Waiting makes sense only if you can afford to, and if the changes you’re waiting for matter to you.
Buy a current gasoline Equinox if you need a vehicle soon and the current trim, drivetrain and features fit your needs. Current models come with known specifications and a clear pricing structure.
Wait for a 2028 gasoline Equinox if you’re interested in a model-year refresh and can accept uncertainty about timing and pricing.
Consider the current Equinox EV if you can charge at home, drive regularly and want to avoid routine engine maintenance. Check current range, charging options and incentives.
Wait for a possible next-generation Equinox EV only if you can wait well past 2028 and have no immediate need for an EV. Reports about the timing and specifications aren’t official.
Consider a hybrid competitor if your priority is better fuel economy without charging. The RAV4 Hybrid and CR-V Hybrid are available today.
Future announcements, pricing changes and incentives could change any of these decisions. Check official sources before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the 2028 Chevy Equinox getting redesigned?
Chevrolet has not officially confirmed a 2028 redesign for the gasoline Equinox. Minor refresh changes are possible but unannounced.
2. When will the 2028 Chevy Equinox be released?
No official release date has been announced. Model-year timing is typically confirmed close to launch, so check Chevrolet’s newsroom for updates.
3. How much will the 2028 Chevy Equinox cost?
No official 2028 pricing is available. Use current model-year MSRPs from Chevrolet’s site as a reference, and compare out-the-door totals.
4. Will the 2028 Chevy Equinox have a hybrid engine?
Not confirmed. GM hasn’t announced a hybrid Equinox as of this article’s research date.
5. Will the 2028 Equinox EV get a new generation?
Industry reports suggest a next-generation EV may arrive around late 2028 or early 2029, but Chevrolet hasn’t confirmed it.
6. How far could the 2028 Chevy Equinox EV travel on one charge?
No official 2028 range has been announced. Use the EPA estimate for the current model and trim as a reference.
7. Will the 2028 Equinox EV have AWD?
AWD is available on applicable configurations of the current model. Its availability for 2028 is unconfirmed.
8. Is the gasoline Equinox better than the Equinox EV?
Neither is better for everyone. The gas model suits buyers who want familiar refueling and lower upfront cost, while the EV suits buyers who can charge at home and drive regularly.
9. Will the 2028 Equinox support NACS charging?
The current Equinox EV uses a NACS port. Confirm the model year and adapter availability for any 2028 model once Chevrolet publishes details.
10. Should I wait for the 2028 Chevy Equinox?
Wait only if you’re interested in the specific changes and can accept uncertainty. If you need a vehicle now, a current model with known specifications may be the better choice.
The gasoline Equinox remains a practical choice for buyers who want familiar refueling, a traditional SUV layout and a lower upfront cost. It suits drivers who don’t want to plan around charging, and its current specifications offer a clear basis for comparison.
The Equinox EV appeals to buyers who can charge at home, drive regularly and want to avoid routine engine maintenance. Its future depends on decisions Chevrolet hasn’t finalized, and reports about a next-generation model should be treated as informed speculation rather than confirmed plans.
For most shoppers, the best approach is to start with current models. Compare official pricing, EPA ratings, warranty terms, charging options and safety data. If the 2028 model brings meaningful changes, you’ll be able to evaluate them when Chevrolet announces them. Until then, the most reliable decisions come from confirmed information.
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