Jeff D’Ambrosio Chevrolet – Does the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox handle winter roads confidently around Wilmington, DE?
Winter driving demands traction, composure, and visibility you can count on, and the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox brings a well-rounded toolkit for cold-weather confidence. With the standard Drive Mode Selector, you can tailor the vehicle’s responses to low-traction conditions, while available all-wheel drive adds traction on demand for wet, snowy, or slushy roads. The chassis tuning aims for stability without sacrificing ride comfort, and the precise steering helps you place the vehicle accurately through changing surfaces.
Many shoppers ask how the Equinox stacks up when storms roll in. Start with technology that supports awareness. Over 15 standard safety and driver assistance features include Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, Following Distance Indicator, Front Pedestrian Braking, and IntelliBeam®. Available enhancements like HD Surround Vision, Side Bicyclist Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Braking, and a Rear Camera Mirror help you see more of your surroundings during dark commutes and crowded parking lots when visibility can be compromised by snowbanks or frost.
Trims and equipment make a real difference in winter. The ACTIV trim’s all-terrain tires and uniquely tuned suspension provide added grip and a distinctive ride character that inspires confidence on unplowed roads and gravel access points after a storm. RS delivers a sportier posture with available 20-inch wheels, yet both RS and ACTIV can be configured with the available all-wheel drive system for traction when you need it most. No matter the trim, the standard 1.5L Turbo engine supplies predictable, efficient power that helps you maintain steady momentum in uncertain conditions.
Inside, winter-friendly conveniences reduce the daily hassle. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel come standard, so you warm up quickly on frosty mornings. The 11.3-inch diagonal infotainment touch-screen and 11-inch diagonal Driver Information Center keep essentials front and center, while wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility plus Google built-in with Google Assistant let you use voice commands to call ahead, get alternate directions around a closure, or check weather and road conditions without taking gloves off to fumble with a phone.
If you are preparing for snow season, a few smart choices make a great winter setup. Consider winter-rated tires if you regularly face icy or packed-snow roads. If your routes include hills or poorly cleared streets, choose the available all-wheel drive for added confidence. Keep an emergency kit in the cargo area—there is up to 63.5 cu. ft. of max cargo volume—stocked with a blanket, scraper, flashlight, and traction aids. The available hands-free AutoSense Power Liftgate proves useful when you are carrying salt bags or groceries through a slushy lot.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is the available all-wheel drive worth it for mild winters?
Yes, if you regularly encounter wet leaves, slush, or occasional snow, the available all-wheel drive offers traction on demand that helps you accelerate from a stop, merge confidently, and maintain control on variable surfaces. Paired with the Drive Mode Selector, you can calibrate responses for conditions without extra effort.
Which trim is best for winter driving?
Both RS and ACTIV can be equipped for winter, but ACTIV adds all-terrain tires and a uniquely tuned suspension that favor confidence on unplowed or rutted surfaces. If your winter routes are mostly paved and well plowed, RS with available all-wheel drive and appropriate seasonal tires is an excellent choice.
How do the Equinox’s safety systems help on snow or ice?
Systems like Forward Collision Alert, Following Distance Indicator, and Automatic Emergency Braking support your awareness when stopping distances lengthen. IntelliBeam® automatically manages high beams to maximize visibility, and available HD Surround Vision makes maneuvering around snowbanks and tight spaces easier.
Can I manage winter commutes without messing with my phone?
Yes. With Google built-in featuring Google Assistant plus wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, you can use voice commands for navigation, calls, and weather checks. It is an easy, glove-friendly way to stay informed and connected.
For test drives and feature walkarounds, you can rely on Jeff D’Ambrosio Chevrolet for guidance tailored to your routes and routines. Our team is familiar with winter-ready configurations and can help you evaluate tires, available all-wheel drive, and accessory options. We are proudly serving West Chester, PA, Wilmington, DE, and Havre de Grace, MD, and we are ready to help you build a winter setup that matches your daily drive.
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