2027 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV: Kirkland Buyers Guide

What makes an ACTIV different

Chevrolet gave this trim three things the others don't have. The first is rubber: all-terrain tires on 17-inch Dark Android machined-face wheels, sized for loose surfaces rather than the smoother ride of the RS's 19s. The second is a suspension that's uniquely tuned for the ACTIV, which pairs with the third, ground clearance of 8.20 inches at minimum, higher than the LT or RS. The cabin gets its own look too, with Evotex and sueded microfiber seating and an ACTIV logo on the headrests. It's still a compact crossover underneath, with the same 175 horsepower and the same towing limit as the rest of the family, but it sits and rides differently.

Honest expectations for an all-terrain look

An ACTIV is not a rock crawler, and it's worth saying so plainly. Towing is rated to 1,500 pounds like every other Equinox, and the added ground clearance and tires won't change that number. What the trim does offer is confidence on the kind of surfaces Eastside drivers actually meet: gravel pullouts on forest roads in the Cascade foothills, rutted trailhead roads, a driveway that turns into a creek in a November downpour. All-wheel drive is available, and on this trim it's a natural pairing if you ski or hike through the colder months, though front-wheel drive is the starting configuration. The all-terrain tires are a specific wear item, so ask the service team about replacement options when the time comes.

ACTIV or RS

Both start at $34,200 MSRP, so the real comparison is purpose. The RS is tuned for how a vehicle looks and handles on pavement, with black trim and 19-inch wheels. ACTIV favors comfort over rough surfaces and a taller stance. Most owners can tell which one is theirs after a short test drive that includes some rough pavement. If you want ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, or driver memory settings, the optional Convenience Package III is available on both RS and ACTIV, but not on the LT.

What buyers say

Lee Johnson's Google reviews mostly praise the people and the process, and those themes apply no matter which trim you choose. Todd R. bought for his family more than once, first finding a car for his daughter and then returning: "...we just went back and purchased a new Equinox for my wife." Another review, from M B., came from a buyer who made the trip from the south Sound: "From the initial inquiry about the vehicle to negotiating a deal they made the process transparent and straightforward." That review names Brady Harjehausen and Andrew Wight from the sales team and covers a Chevrolet purchase generally, not an ACTIV specifically.

Frequently asked questions

How much is the 2027 Chevy Equinox ACTIV?

The ACTIV starts at $34,200 MSRP with front-wheel drive, the same starting point as the RS. Destination, taxes, title, registration, and options are extra, and all-wheel drive is available at an added cost.

How much ground clearance does the Equinox ACTIV have?

The ACTIV has 8.20 inches of minimum ground clearance, the most of any 2027 Equinox trim. That extra height and the all-terrain tires are the main practical differences from the LT and RS.

Is the Equinox ACTIV good off-road?

It's good on rough roads, gravel, and trail access roads, which is how most owners use it. It isn't built for serious rock crawling, and its towing capacity is the same 1,500 pounds as the other trims.

Does the Equinox ACTIV come with all-wheel drive?

All-wheel drive is available on the ACTIV, with front-wheel drive as the starting configuration. EPA combined ratings are 27 mpg for front-wheel drive and 26 mpg for all-wheel drive.

What colors does the Equinox ACTIV come in?

Chevrolet offers several exterior colors, including the new Autumn Harvest Metallic that's exclusive to the LT and ACTIV for 2027, and a two-tone white roof is available. Color availability changes with production, so ask the dealership what's in stock.

The bottom line on the ACTIV

If you spend real time on gravel and trailheads, the ACTIV's tires and ride height are worth the price. If you mostly commute on paved roads, an LT or RS will do the job. Test drive each at Lee Johnson Chevrolet in Kirkland and pay attention to how they feel on the roughest piece of road you can find.

All 2027 Chevrolet Equinox guides

• 2027 Chevrolet Equinox buyers guide
• 2027 Chevrolet Equinox LT
• 2027 Chevrolet Equinox RS
• 2027 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV
• Chevrolet Equinox service & repair in Kirkland
• 2027 Chevrolet Equinox pricing & leasing in Kirkland