Does the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox Have a 3rd Row?

Choosing a three-row family SUV means weighing engine output against interior space, and figuring out whether extra tech features are worth the price difference. The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse and the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas are two of the strongest contenders in this segment, and they represent different ideas about what a family SUV should be. The Atlas leans into approachable pricing and a straightforward feature set, while the Traverse is built around stronger performance, more passenger space, and technology that actively supports family life. Both vehicles serve families well, but line them up side by side and the differences start to matter. For families in Tacoma, WA hauling gear toward Mount Rainier, those differences can shape which SUV actually fits daily life. If you'd like to see the Traverse in person, you can browse new Chevrolet models at Titus-Will Chevrolet. Performance and Powertrain Comparison The Traverse arrives with a clear performance advantage. Its 2.5L turbocharged inline-four produces 328 hp and 326 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Atlas relies on a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder rated at 269 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. That gap translates directly into stronger acceleration and better towing capability for the Traverse, which matters for families hauling trailers, boats, or camping gear toward Puget Sound or up into the mountains. Both SUVs deliver smooth power delivery in everyday driving, but the Traverse combines its stronger output with competitive fuel efficiency, so you're not trading economy for power. That makes it the more compelling choice for drivers who want confidence at highway speeds or when merging onto busy Tacoma-area roads with a full load of passengers. Off-Road Capability: Traverse Z71 vs Atlas If your weekends include logging roads or the kind of rugged Pacific Northwest terrain that demands real traction, the Traverse Z71 trim deserves a look. It's built with all-terrain tires, a raised suspension, and off-road-tuned driving dynamics designed to help the vehicle hold traction on uneven or slippery surfaces. It also includes the AutoSense Power Liftgate, and the RS and High Country trims add One-Touch Fold second-row seats for quick cargo access. The Atlas offers available 4Motion AWD and handles typical mixed-condition driving reasonably well, but Volkswagen doesn't offer a dedicated off-road trim to match the Z71. Pavement commuters will find the Atlas holds its own just fine. Once you start leaving the pavement behind on a regular basis, though, the Z71 offers capability the Atlas simply can't touch. Technology and Infotainment Features Modern families lean on their vehicles for connectivity as much as transportation, and both SUVs reflect that. The Traverse features a 17.7-inch diagonal infotainment touchscreen with Google built-in. Drivers get Google Maps, Google Play, and the Google-powered in-vehicle assistant right on the dash, along with a standard 11.0-inch digital gauge display. The Atlas offers a 12.0-inch infotainment display paired with a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro gauge cluster. The larger Traverse screen and more intuitive interface make it easier to navigate menus or adjust settings without taking your eyes off the road for long. The Traverse also offers Super Cruise™, a hands-free driving system that comes standard on the High Country and RS trims and is available on the others. It works on more than 585,000 miles of compatible roads across the U.S. and Canada, including many stretches families might use commuting or road-tripping. The Atlas has no comparable hands-free system, which gives the Traverse a meaningful technology edge for long highway stretches. Ready to compare these features in person? You can schedule a test drive at Titus-Will Chevrolet and try the Google built-in system and Super Cruise for yourself. Passenger Space and Seating Comfort The Traverse seats up to eight with bench seating or seven with available captain's chairs, while the Atlas tops out at seven. That extra flexibility matters for larger families or carpooling duty. The Traverse also offers more shoulder room, measuring 62.28 inches in front, 62.17 inches in the second row, and 57.72 inches in the third row, an advantage that shows up on longer drives when adults are riding in the back seats. The Traverse's Smart Slide Seats make third-row entry and exit easier, cutting down on the awkward maneuvering that makes second-row passengers dread climbing through. Standard heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and three-zone climate control round out the comfort features. The Atlas's third row is noticeably tighter for adult passengers, and Volkswagen doesn't offer an equivalent seat-sliding feature. Families who actually use all three rows on a regular basis will notice the difference the Traverse's layout makes. Cargo Capacity and Storage Versatility Space behind the passengers matters just as much as space for them. The Traverse offers up to 97.6 cubic feet of maximum cargo room with the rear seats folded, 56.6 cubic feet behind the second row, and 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row. The Atlas offers 96.6 cubic feet of maximum cargo space, close to the Traverse's figure but still slightly behind. That extra room adds up when you're loading gear for a trip toward the coast or across Washington State, whether it's sports equipment, strollers, or a week's worth of vacation luggage. Both SUVs offer thoughtful in-cabin storage, but the Traverse's larger overall footprint gives families more flexibility when packing for a full house. Why the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse Is the Smarter Choice The Traverse leads across several categories that matter most to active families, not just one. Chevrolet's engineering gives it an edge in horsepower, torque, and towing. The Z71 trim brings genuine off-road ability the Atlas can't match. The infotainment system is larger and easier to use, Super Cruise adds hands-free capability on compatible roads, and the Traverse seats more people more comfortably while carrying more cargo when needed. Ownership costs matter too. Kelley Blue Book's 5-Year Cost to Own estimates and J.D. Power ratings show meaningful gaps between three-row SUVs in this class when it comes to predicted maintenance and resale value, and Consumer Reports data can help buyers compare long-term reliability trends before deciding. Translating those scores into plain terms: a vehicle with stronger predicted reliability generally means fewer unplanned repair visits and better resale value down the road, which is worth factoring in alongside sticker price. Because pricing and specifications are subject to change, we recommend you contact our team to confirm current MSRP and trim availability before making a final decision. The Atlas suits buyers with straightforward needs just fine. But families juggling school runs during the week and mountain trips on the weekend will find the Traverse delivers a more complete package. Schedule Your Traverse Test Drive Visit Titus-Will Chevrolet in Tacoma If you're ready to see what the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse can do, Titus-Will Chevrolet is the place to start. Located at 11011 Pacific Ave S in Tacoma, we've served Tacoma, Olympia, Puyallup, Lakewood, and nearby Pacific Northwest communities since 1938. Standout reasons to consider the Traverse include its 328-hp turbocharged engine, the off-road-ready Z71 trim, and standard technology like the 17.7-inch touchscreen with Google built-in. Next Steps We carry a full inventory of new Chevrolet models along with certified pre-owned vehicles and flexible financing options for a range of credit profiles. If you're ready to move forward, you can start a credit application online or schedule a test drive at a time that works for you. You can also call our sales team directly at 253-448-8157 with any questions. Get behind the wheel of the Traverse and see for yourself why it's the right pick for families across the region.

The Chevrolet Equinox has long been one of the most practical compact SUVs on the market, and the 2027 model year brings meaningful upgrades to the driving experience, functionality, and styling. Chevrolet replaced the CVT with an eight-speed automatic on FWD models, increased towing capacity, added a Connected Cameras feature, and introduced a new exterior color. If you've been watching the Equinox evolve, or you're simply shopping for a capable, well-priced SUV, the changes between the 2026 and 2027 model years are worth a closer look. Major Upgrades Over the 2026 Model The gap between the 2026 and 2027 Equinox goes beyond looks. Chevrolet made targeted improvements aimed at real-world driving needs, and the 2027 model is a noticeably better package for it. New Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission The switch from a CVT to an eight-speed automatic on FWD models is the biggest change for 2027, bringing them in line with AWD trims that already used the eight-speed. CVTs are known for fuel efficiency, but plenty of drivers find them dull to drive. The eight-speed automatic brings a more traditional, engaging feel while still holding onto strong efficiency across daily commutes and highway stretches. Acceleration feels more natural, and the transmission responds better when you need quick power, an improvement over the 2026 FWD Equinox's CVT. Increased Towing Capacity Towing capacity also gets a real bump for 2027. Both FWD and AWD models are now rated to tow up to 1,500 lbs, nearly double the 800 lbs the 2026 FWD Equinox could handle. That extra capacity opens the door to weekend trips, light hauling, or pulling a small trailer, without needing to move up to a bigger SUV. Connected Cameras Feature Safety tech gets a boost with the new Connected Cameras feature, available with the Safety and Technology package. It's designed to add exterior and interior remote viewing through the MyChevy app, along with dash-cam functionality, something the 2026 Equinox didn't offer. The camera hardware is installed at the factory, but Chevrolet plans to activate the feature later through an over-the-air update rather than at launch, so early buyers should confirm timing with us. Once enabled, whether you're keeping an eye on the vehicle in a parking lot or reviewing footage after a drive, Connected Cameras is set to give owners a level of security and situational awareness that wasn't available on last year's model. Autumn Harvest Metallic Exterior Color On the style side, Chevrolet introduces Autumn Harvest Metallic as a new exterior color, replacing the discontinued Cacti Green. It's a warm, distinctive tone that sets the 2027 Equinox apart on the road and gives buyers another good-looking option when personalizing their vehicle. The 2027 RS trim also gets an interior update, with Torch Red stitching replacing the 2026 RS's Santorini Blue and Torch Red combination. Performance and Technology Differences The 2027 Equinox carries over the 175-hp turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder engine from 2026, so the core powertrain balance of power and fuel economy hasn't changed. Torque output depends on drivetrain: FWD models produce 184 lb-ft, while AWD models produce 203 lb-ft. That extra torque on AWD trims is useful in practice, it helps with traction in slippery conditions and gives a meaningful edge when towing near the Equinox's limit. Fuel economy on FWD models is estimated at 25 mpg city and 26 mpg combined, a slight dip from the 2026 model's 26 mpg city and 27 mpg combined due to the new transmission. The real change this year is how that power gets delivered. The new eight-speed automatic noticeably improves acceleration, especially in city driving where quicker gear changes make a difference you can actually feel in traffic, all while keeping the efficiency compact SUV buyers count on. Driver assistance features carry forward as well, including adaptive cruise control and automated emergency braking, so safety technology remains a strong point across LT, RS, and Activ trims. Infotainment and Interior Technology Step inside the 2027 Equinox and the interior immediately feels modern and easy to use. The centerpiece is an 11.3-inch touchscreen running Google Built-In, which supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto so you can connect your phone without messing with cables. An 11-inch digital driver display sits ahead of the driver, keeping key vehicle information right in your line of sight, and an available 5G Wi-Fi hotspot keeps everyone connected on the road. Comfort features round out the package in a way that's hard to find standard at this price. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel come included on many trims, a nice bonus once winter settles in around the Pacific Northwest. The interior layout is clean and organized, with intuitive controls and smart storage placement throughout the cabin. Passenger Space and Cargo Capacity The 2027 Equinox seats five, with the cabin designed for good legroom and easy entry in every seat. Behind the second row, you'll find about 29.8 cubic feet of cargo space, plenty for grocery runs and weekend bags. Fold the 60/40 split-folding rear seat down and that number jumps to 63.5 cubic feet, which makes the Equinox genuinely useful for moves, outdoor gear, or whatever else needs the extra room. For families, commuters, and active drivers, that mix of passenger comfort and cargo flexibility remains one of the Equinox's strongest everyday selling points, unchanged from 2026 but still a segment strength. Why the 2027 Equinox Is the Better Choice The compact SUV segment is crowded, with strong contenders like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V competing hard for the same buyers. The 2027 Equinox answers that competition with affordability and real-world practicality, now backed by a more satisfying drivetrain. The 2027 updates tackle the spots where earlier Equinox models took criticism. Drivers who found the outgoing CVT uninspiring will notice the eight-speed automatic's more engaging feel right away. Owners who occasionally tow a small trailer or light hauling equipment benefit directly from the jump to 1,500 lbs of towing capacity on both FWD and AWD models. And buyers who value peace of mind when the vehicle is parked or unattended will get real use out of the Connected Cameras feature once Chevrolet activates it through the planned over-the-air update. AWD shoppers specifically gain the added benefit of 203 lb-ft of torque, which helps with traction in poor weather and adds confidence when towing near capacity. If you're after a compact SUV that works hard, looks sharp, and doesn't ask you to overspend, the 2027 Equinox makes a strong case for itself across its LT, RS, and Activ trims. Schedule Your 2027 Equinox Test Drive at Titus-Will Chevrolet Visit Us in Tacoma, WA Reading about updates is one thing. Experiencing them on the road is another. Titus-Will Chevrolet, located at 11011 Pacific Ave S in Tacoma, WA, invites you to come see the 2027 Equinox in person. Titus-Will serves the greater Tacoma area, including Olympia, Puyallup, Lakewood, and Joint Base Lewis-McChord, and has been part of the Pacific Northwest community since 1938 as Washington State's largest volume auto group. Book Your Test Drive Our team can walk you through the LT, RS, and Activ trims, help you find the right configuration for your lifestyle, and connect you with flexible financing options that work across all credit profiles. If you'd rather start the process from home, online purchasing and home delivery are available too. To ask questions or schedule your test drive, contact our team or call 253-448-8157. With over 85 years of experience, Titus-Will Chevrolet makes finding your next vehicle a straightforward, confident experience.

Shopping for a compact SUV means you're asking tough questions. Do you need something that's fun to drive, or are you after maximum practicality? The 2026 Chevy Trailblazer and 2026 Kia Seltos represent two smart answers to these questions, but they don't agree on the details. The Trailblazer brings more punch and a friendlier price tag. The Seltos counters with better fuel economy and more room for your stuff. Here's what makes this decision tricky: both SUVs actually deliver what most people need from a compact crossover. You get the higher driving position families love, enough cargo space for real life, and decent fuel efficiency for daily commuting. The differences come down to priorities. Are you the type who enjoys the drive itself, or do you just need reliable transportation? Your answer points toward the right choice. 2026 Chevy Trailblazer vs 2026 Kia Seltos: Which Compact SUV Wins? The compact SUV market keeps growing because these vehicles solve real problems. Parents appreciate being able to see over traffic while still fitting into normal parking spaces. Young professionals want something that looks good but won't break the bank. Weekend warriors need enough capability for camping trips without the daily fuel penalty of a full-size SUV. Trim Levels and Pricing: Finding Your Perfect Match 2026 Chevy Trailblazer Trim Lineup and Features The entry-level LS doesn't feel like a penalty box. Chevy loaded it with enough standard equipment that you won't feel shortchanged compared to competitors' base models. The pricing here is aggressive - this is where the Trailblazer makes its strongest value argument. Step up to the LT trim and you're in the sweet spot most buyers choose. Better interior materials, improved tech features, and access to option packages that let you build the exact SUV you want. This middle ground strikes the right balance between features and affordability without getting carried away with luxury items you might not use. The top trims venture into premium territory with leather seats, upgraded sound systems, and advanced driver assistance features. All-wheel drive becomes available across the lineup, adding about $1,500 to any trim but delivering real-world traction benefits for Pacific Northwest drivers who deal with wet roads regularly. 2026 Kia Seltos Trim Options Kia's approach starts with more standard tech features right from the base trim. If you're someone who considers smartphone integration and advanced infotainment essential rather than optional, the Seltos makes fewer compromises at lower price points. The progression through higher trims feels logical without massive price jumps. Mid-range trims add comfort and convenience upgrades that make daily driving more pleasant. We're talking about things like better climate control, improved seating materials, and enhanced safety features. The top trims get genuinely impressive equipment levels that rival some luxury brands. Here's where it gets interesting: the Seltos often includes features as standard that require upgrades in the Trailblazer lineup. When you factor in the total equipment rather than just the starting price, the value equation becomes closer than it first appears. Performance and Powertrain: Power Meets Efficiency Engine Options and Driving Dynamics The Trailblazer's turbocharged engines deliver more than adequate power for this class. The base turbo handles daily driving confidently, while the larger option provides genuinely quick acceleration that makes highway merging stress-free. Both pair with transmissions that shift smoothly and respond quickly to throttle inputs. You won't find a Trailblazer hybrid for 2026, which might disappoint eco-focused shoppers. Chevrolet's putting their electrification efforts elsewhere right now. The regular turbocharged engines still return reasonable fuel economy, especially if you keep your right foot in check. The Seltos takes a different approach with its engines. You get adequate power without the same aggressive character. This creates a calmer, more refined driving experience that many people prefer for daily commuting. The steering feels lighter and more relaxed than the Trailblazer's setup. Behind the wheel, these differences become obvious quickly. The Trailblazer feels more connected and athletic. It rewards drivers who enjoy the actual act of driving. The Seltos prioritizes comfort and composure, creating a serene cabin environment that reduces fatigue on longer trips. Fuel Economy Comparison Real-world efficiency matters when you're filling up twice a week. The Seltos consistently beats the Trailblazer at the pump, both in city stop-and-go traffic and on highway cruises. Over a year of ownership, this adds up to meaningful savings - potentially several hundred dollars depending on your driving patterns. The Trailblazer's slightly higher fuel consumption reflects its performance focus. Drive it enthusiastically and the gap widens. Drive gently and you'll get closer to the Seltos' numbers. Most people find the fuel economy acceptable given the extra power and engagement. All-wheel drive impacts efficiency in both vehicles, but the penalty stays reasonable. The extra traction pays dividends in wet weather or light snow conditions that Pacific Northwest drivers face regularly. The slight mpg reduction is worth it for the added confidence. Technology and Infotainment Systems Compared These systems can make or break the ownership experience. The Trailblazer's touchscreen responds quickly and uses intuitive menu layouts that don't require a manual to figure out. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work seamlessly, essentially turning your dashboard into a smartphone extension. The Seltos typically includes larger standard screens across more trim levels. Better visibility means easier touch targets while you're driving. Menu organization earns praise for being logical and user-friendly. Many tech features come standard where the Trailblazer makes you pay extra for them. Both provide multiple USB ports, though their placement differs. The Trailblazer gives better front-seat access, while the Seltos focuses on rear-seat connectivity for families with device-dependent kids. Voice commands work reliably in both, letting you manage functions without looking away from traffic. Available upgrades bring premium sound systems, larger displays, and navigation features to both SUVs. The Seltos includes more tech as standard equipment at lower price points, while the Trailblazer requires stepping up trim levels to match equivalent capabilities. Safety Features: Which SUV Protects Better? Standard Safety Equipment Head-to-Head Both manufacturers take protection seriously, loading their compact SUVs with comprehensive safety systems. You get multiple airbags, stability control, and advanced braking systems across all trims. Even base models don't compromise on essential protections. The Seltos has earned stronger ratings in independent crash testing, particularly for side impacts and rollover resistance. These results reflect smart structural engineering and strategic reinforcement throughout the passenger compartment. The Trailblazer performs well too, but the Seltos holds slight advantages in key areas. Child safety gets proper attention in both vehicles. LATCH systems secure car seats properly, and both provide adequate rear-seat space for bulky child seats. The Seltos offers slightly easier access for parents wrestling with installations, though neither vehicle makes this task difficult. Visibility differs meaningfully between these competitors. The Trailblazer provides better sightlines thanks to thinner roof pillars and larger windows. The Seltos addresses this electronically with standard blind-spot monitoring on more trims. Your preference between mechanical and electronic solutions might influence this decision. Advanced Driver-Assistance Technology Advanced safety features have trickled down from luxury cars into mainstream models. The Seltos includes more assistance features as standard equipment, bringing adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking without expensive option packages. This makes cutting-edge safety accessible regardless of budget. The Trailblazer reserves certain features for higher trims, though option packages can add them to mid-range models. When equipped similarly, both offer comparable assistance capabilities with subtle differences in operation. The Trailblazer's systems intervene less aggressively, while the Seltos takes a more active role in preventing potential problems. Parking assistance works well in both, with rear sensors and available 360-degree cameras. The Seltos' displays provide clearer resolution and better low-light performance, making tight parking spots less stressful. The Trailblazer's system works adequately but feels less polished. Interior Space, Comfort, and Cargo Versatility Interior roominess directly impacts daily satisfaction. The Seltos provides more overall space, which translates to better rear-seat legroom and headroom. Taller passengers notice this advantage on longer trips where cramped quarters become uncomfortable quickly. The cargo area also wins with seats up or down. The Trailblazer's cabin feels more driver-focused, with controls angled toward whoever's behind the wheel. This reinforces the sporty character and creates an engaging environment. Front-seat comfort matches the Seltos closely, while material quality varies by trim in both vehicles. Loading cargo reveals practical differences. The Seltos offers a larger opening and lower load floor, making heavy items easier to manage. The Trailblazer's smaller space includes clever storage solutions and tie-down points that secure loads effectively. Climate control maintains comfortable temperatures in both SUVs. The Seltos offers dual-zone automatic climate control as standard on more trims, letting front passengers choose their preferred temperatures independently. The Trailblazer provides similar functionality on upper trims. Storage solutions throughout both cabins reveal thoughtful design. Door pockets, console bins, and cupholders accommodate modern necessities like phones, water bottles, and charging cables. The Trailblazer includes slightly more small-item storage, while the Seltos provides larger bins for bulkier items. Schedule Your Test Drive Today The dealership serves the greater Tacoma area, including Olympia, Puyallup, Lakewood, and Joint Base Lewis-McChord. Whether you're comparing SUVs for the first time or you know exactly what you want, Titus-Will Chevrolet's commitment to exceptional customer service ensures a positive experience. Their expanding inventory includes electric and hybrid Chevrolet models, positioning them to meet evolving transportation needs. Call 253-448-8157 or contact us online to schedule your test drive and experience why the Trailblazer has earned its place among the compact SUV segment's most capable competitors. The team at Titus-Will Chevrolet looks forward to helping you find the perfect vehicle for your Pacific Northwest adventures.