Compact SUVs are among today’s most popular vehicles, and it’s easy to see why. They offer room for five passengers, enhanced ride height that makes it easier to get in and out of and see above traffic, and oodles of practicality, all in a vehicle that’s small enough to slide through traffic and park in a garage. Among the raft of compact SUVs available, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 and 2026 Chevrolet Equinox are two alluring choices. With revamps either this year or last, they are also among the freshest choices in their class.
Here’s how Mazda’s and Chevy’s popular compact SUVs compare.
2026 Mazda CX-5
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is all-new this year, marking its third generation. This fully revamped version of Mazda’s bestseller sees it become a bit larger on the outside, roomier within, and a whole lot more sophisticated when it comes to technology. One thing that hasn’t changed is its athletic driving quality. If you’ve ever owned or driven a Mazda, you know it simply feels sportier than most other vehicles, and that remains true for the CX-5. An SUV is expected to be practical, not necessarily fun to drive. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 accomplishes both.
Mazda CX-5 Highlights
Standard AWD: All-wheel drive (AWD) is standard in every CX-5, just as it is on every other Mazda SUV. This isn’t the case with most other compact SUVs, including the Equinox. In the Chevy, adding AWD costs an extra $2,000.
Innovative tech: The 2026 Mazda CX-5 has a larger touchscreen than the Equinox, making vital info easier to see. The CX-5’s screen measures 12.9 inches (vs 11.3 in the Chevy). Top trims go even larger, boasting a 15.6-inch center display. Additionally, the CX-5 offers tech such as lane-change assist, surround-view camera, and even the ability to help you find the perfect seat setting based on your height.
Flexible cargo space: The 2026 Mazda CX-5 has more cargo room than the Equinox, and we find it easier to use. Behind the rear seats are 33.7 cubic feet (vs. 29.8 in the Chevy), and 66.5 cubic feet with them folded (vs. 63.5). Moreover, the CX-5’s rear seats can fold in a 40/20/40 split, which allows you to carry longer items through the middle while still enabling passengers to sit in the rear outboard positions.
Read our Mazda CX-5 Expert Review or see 2026 Mazda CX-5 models for sale near you
2026 Chevrolet Equinox
The Chevrolet Equinox returns for 2026 after receiving a complete redesign last year, giving this popular compact SUV a bolder, more rugged look. The 2026 Chevy Equinox also boasts a tech-focused cabin with ample passenger and cargo space.
Chevrolet Equinox Highlights
Dual digital displays: We won’t be surprised if you let out an audible “wow” when stepping into the 2026 Equinox. We did after being welcomed by both an 11-inch digital driver display and an 11.3-inch touchscreen. They are standard and inject the Equinox with a big dose of tech.
Heated front seats and steering wheel: These are two welcome features you’ll appreciate every cold morning. Even better, and unlike with rivals, including the Mazda CX-5, these come standard in the Equinox.
All-wheel drive: Choosing this option not only gives you more all-weather confidence, but it also equips the Equinox with more torque and an 8-speed automatic transmission, versus the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) in front-wheel-drive models.
Read our Chevrolet Equinox Expert Review or see 2026 Chevrolet Equinox for sale near you
New 2026 MAZDA CX-5 Prices
|
Retail Price
|
Fair Purchase Price (92620)
|
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
$31,485 |
$29,900 |
|||
$33,485 |
$31,400 |
|||
$35,745 |
$33,700 |
|||
$38,395 |
$36,600 |
|||
$40,485 |
$38,500 |
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2026 MAZDA CX-5 vehicles and New 2026 Chevrolet Equinox vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
Specifications
| 2026 MAZDA CX-5 | 2026 Chevrolet Equinox | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder | 1.5-liter turbo 4-cylinder |
| Towing Capacity | 1,500 pounds | 800 pounds |
| Horsepower | 187 hp @ 6,000 rpm | 175 hp @ 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm | 184 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm |
| Transmission | automatic, 6-speed skyactiv-drive w/manual & sport modes | Automatic, CVT |
| Fuel Economy | 24 city/30 highway/26 combined mpg | 26 city/29 highway/27 combined mpg |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | Not rated | Not rated |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 110.8 inches | 107.5 inches |
| Overall Length | 184.6 inches | 183.2 inches |
| Width | 81.8 inches | N/A |
| Height | 66.7 inches | 65.6 inches |
| Turning Diameter | N/A | N/A |
| Headroom, Front | 39.7 inches | 40.0 inches |
| Headroom, 2nd Row | 40.2 inches | 39.2 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 41.7 inches | 40.9 inches |
| Legroom, 2nd Row | 39.9 inches | 39.9 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 57.6 inches | 57.7 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 2nd Row | 55.6 inches | 55.8 inches |
| Cargo Behind Second Seat | N/A | N/A |
| Cargo With All Seats Down | 66.5 feet | N/A |
Specification table reflects the typical configuration of vehicles shown.
Conclusion
Thanks to last year’s revamp, the Chevrolet Equinox easily eclipses its former self. It has a more rugged look than the posher Mazda and will likely appeal to longtime Chevy loyalists. That every trim has heated seats and a heated steering wheel is a perk if you live where it’s cold. The Mazda CX-5, however, offers more advanced technology, more trim levels to choose from, a bit more cargo room, standard all-wheel drive, and snappier driving manners.
