The redesigned Chevrolet Equinox, like its smaller Trailblazer sibling, packed a CVT on FWD models.
Outside the automaker’s half-ton trucks, the Chevrolet Equinox is GM’s single best-selling model — and it’s getting a significant change for 2027. According to the latest order guide (as noticed by the folks over at Car and Driver), front-wheel drive Equinox models will no longer mosey along with a continuously variable transmission. Instead of a CVT, you’ll get a standard 8-speed automatic, just like the current all-wheel drive version.
The move comes as more automakers move away from CVTs, as a general rule of thumb. Nissan is one of the most prominent examples of ditching their troublesome transmission (for the most part), with SUVs like the Pathfinder and Murano getting a 9-speed automatic instead. They do still use it, but it’s not as widespread. Some other OEMs, like Subaru, remain committed to CVTs in their vehicles.
Other than going all-in on the 8-speed auto for the gas-powered Equinox lineup, other 2027 changes look to be minimal. Autumn Harvest Metallic joins the color palette, while it seems Cacti Green (shown here) is no longer on the menu. RS models now solely get Torch Red stitching for the black and red interior, rather than Torch Red and Santorini Blue stitching.
Like before, the 2027 Chevy Equinox will pack a 1.5-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 175 horsepower. However, front-wheel drive models that formerly used the CVT also got a lower torque rating of 184 lb-ft. The all-wheel drive versions have 203 lb-ft, so it’s unclear, at least by way of the order guide, whether moving the FWD version to the 8-speed automatic will also upgrade the torque figure.
The closely related GMC Terrain, which has an identical powertrain setup to the Equinox, will also lose its CVT in the 2027 Model Year switch.
