The completely redesigned fourth-generation Chevy Equinox is barely getting settled into driveways, but General Motors has already quietly published fleet order details detailing some major packaging and powertrain changes for the upcoming 2027 model year.
While the sheet metal remains the same, the mechanical updates underneath have already sparked a massive debate inside our GM-Trucks.com community.
Here is a breakdown of the new features, the deleted options, and what actual owners are saying about the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox.
1. The Death of the CVT (And The 8-Speed Debate)
When the new Equinox launched for the 2025 model year, buyers were forced into a split powertrain situation. If you bought an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) model, you got a traditional 8-speed automatic transmission. If you opted for Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), you were saddled with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
For 2027, the CVT (RPO MRT) is officially dead. The 8-Speed Automatic Transmission (RPO GF8) will become standard equipment across the board.
On paper, this is a massive win. CVTs are notoriously polarizing, and many current owners—like Phyllis in our Equinox/Terrain Facebook group—admit they spent the extra money on an AWD model specifically to avoid the CVT. Unsurprisingly, the news has left some early-adopter FWD owners feeling anxious about the long-term support and reliability of their now-discontinued transmissions.
However, the 8-speed isn’t without its own controversy.
Current AWD owners are quick to point out a frustrating quirk: the 1.5L turbocharged engine simply doesn’t seem to have the raw power to utilize 8th gear at modern highway speeds. Owners are reporting that the transmission effectively acts as a 7-speed on the interstate. To actually get the Equinox to shift into 8th gear, some drivers resort to feathering the throttle at 62 mph and slowly creeping up to cruising speed; otherwise, the transmission refuses to upshift.
2. Paint Palette Swap: Goodbye Cacti Green
GM is also shaking up the exterior color options. The earthy Cacti Green (RPO GVR) is officially being deleted from the Equinox order guide for 2027. While it wasn’t for everyone, the color had a dedicated fanbase, especially when paired with the blacked-out accents of the Midnight Edition.
Stepping in to replace it is a brand-new color called Autumn Harvest Metallic (RPO GTJ). We haven’t seen this specific hue sprayed on an Equinox just yet, but the name suggests a warm, premium, likely copper or deep orange-leaning metallic that should pop perfectly against the dark trim of the RS and ACTIV models.
3. Upgraded Security: Connected Cameras
On the technology front, the 2027 Equinox will see a highly requested upgrade to its Safety and Technology Package (RPO CWN).
Chevy is adding Connected Cameras capability (RPO UCV). While GM notes it as “late availability” for the 2027 model year, this feature typically allows owners to remotely access their vehicle’s 360-degree exterior camera feeds via the myChevrolet app. It is a massive boost for security and peace of mind when your vehicle is parked in a crowded lot.
4. Simplifying the RS Interior
Finally, Chevy is making a subtle aesthetic tweak to the sporty RS trim.
Currently, the Equinox RS features a unique interior with both Torch Red and Santorini Blue contrast stitching. For 2027, Chevy is cleaning up the palette. The Santorini Blue thread is being dropped, and the Black with Red Accents interior (RPO H7D) will move forward featuring exclusively Torch Red stitching. It’s a minor change, but it gives the RS cabin a more cohesive, classic vibe.
What do you think of these changes? Are you holding out for a 2027 to get the FWD 8-Speed, or are you perfectly happy with your current setup? Join the discussion in our GM-Trucks.com Equinox Owners Forum!
Zane Merva is the Executive Editor of GM-Trucks.com and the President of the New England Motor Press Association (NEMPA). A veteran automotive journalist with over 26 years of experience, Zane is a designated ‘Car Talk’ Expert and has been a contributor to The Boston Globe. He possesses a unique evaluative perspective, having road-tested more than 2,000 vehicles across every major manufacturer. While he is a recognized authority on General Motors truck platforms—including the Silverado, Sierra, and Colorado—his expertise is grounded in decades of deep competitive analysis that few in the industry can match. His commentary has been featured by major OEMs and media outlets, including Hyundai and PR Newswire