Chevrolet Equinox 2027 Drops CVT, Gains 8-Speed Auto

Chevrolet has removed the Continuously Variable Transmission from the 2027 Equinox. All front-wheel-drive models now come with a conventional eight-speed automatic transmission, a mechanical change that also accompanies a $300 price increase across the lineup.

All front-wheel-drive Equinox models now use an eight-speed automatic instead of a CVT.

The transmission swap is the most substantive update for the 2027 Equinox, which otherwise receives minor styling tweaks and a refreshed color palette. Chevrolet’s change aligns front-wheel-drive variants with the geared automatic previously fitted only to all-wheel-drive cars, and the move follows a broader industry retreat from CVTs in compact and midsize crossovers. The manufacturer notes that certain trims become less fuel-efficient after the transmission change.

GM Authority reports that Cacti Green (color code GVR) is discontinued and replaced by a new Autumn Harvest Metallic (GTJ). Summit White, Sterling Gray Metallic, Mosaic Black Metallic, Lakeshore Blue Metallic, and Radiant Red Tintcoat remain available.

Packaging and options

The 2027 Equinox gains an available rear camera washer and an interior camera when buyers opt for the Safety and Technology Package. At the same time Chevrolet has removed the factory Trailering Package from order guides and the online configurator. That means Equinox buyers can no longer receive a trailer hitch and wiring installed at the assembly plant; a hitch and the four-pin wiring harness must now be ordered and fitted through a dealership.

Prices, power and production

Chevrolet raised Equinox pricing by $300 for all trims and drivetrain configurations. The 2027 Equinox LT with front-wheel drive starts at $31,295; adding all-wheel drive increases the base price by $2,000 to $33,295. The Active trim begins at $36,195 for FWD and $38,195 for AWD. The RS shares pricing with the Active trim. All advertised prices include the $1,995 destination charge.

Powertrain basics remain unchanged aside from the transmission: every 2027 Equinox is powered by the same turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-four gasoline engine, rated at 175 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque, now paired standard with the eight-speed automatic.

The 2027 Equinox continues to be built on GM's D2 architecture at the San Luis Potosi assembly plant in Mexico.