Chevrolet Drops CVT for Equinox — Here’s What Transmission Will Replace It

Chevrolet is preparing a significant change for the Chevrolet Equinox starting with the 2027 model year. The front-wheel-drive version of the compact crossover will switch from a continuously variable transmission (CVT) to a traditional eight-speed automatic transmission.

According to a company representative, the change is intended to streamline the vehicle’s drivetrain lineup. Using the same automatic transmission across different configurations will simplify manufacturing and reduce assembly complexity for Chevrolet’s best-selling SUV.

Information published by GM Inside News also suggests the updated Equinox will receive minor design tweaks and equipment updates. In the preliminary feature list, the eight-speed automatic transmission appears under “New Features,” while the CVT is listed among the deleted components. Chevrolet has confirmed the update.

For the 2026 model year, the Equinox pairs its CVT with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 175 horsepower and about 203 lb-ft of torque. Buyers who want a conventional automatic transmission currently have to choose the all-wheel-drive version, which adds roughly $2,000 to the price.

Aside from the transmission change, the crossover remains largely similar to the current model. Some smaller updates are planned, including a new exterior paint color called Autumn Harvest Metallic, which replaces the discontinued Cacti Green.

Interior details are also changing slightly. In the RS trim, the Black with Red Accents interior will now feature Torch Red stitching only, replacing the previous combination of Torch Red and Santorini Blue accents.

Chevrolet also plans to introduce an updated connected camera system later in the model cycle as part of the Safety and Technology package.

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox currently starts at $30,795, including a $1,995 destination charge. Pricing for the 2027 model year is expected to rise slightly.

CVT transmissions have long been used in more affordable vehicles as an alternative to traditional automatics, so Chevrolet’s decision to abandon the technology in the Equinox may come as a surprise. However, many drivers are likely to welcome the move to a more familiar eight-speed automatic transmission.