Jennings Auto Group – Is the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox a smart choice for winter driving near Macomb, IL?
For many Central Illinois shoppers, winter-readiness is a top priority—especially if your weekly routine includes commuting between small towns and open highways. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox brings the kind of technology and traction features that help you stay confident when the forecast throws sleet, slush, and sudden temperature swings your way. With a standard Drive Mode Selector and available all-wheel drive, the Equinox can deliver traction on demand and let you fine-tune performance for changing surfaces. Add over 15 standard safety and driver assistance features, plus Chevy Safety Assist, and you have a compact SUV engineered to support everyday driving through the cold months.
The Equinox’s available all-wheel drive pairs well with the ACTIV trim’s uniquely tuned suspension and all-terrain tires for an extra measure of poise on unplowed side streets or gravel roads after a freeze. Safety technologies like IntelliBeam® can automatically adjust headlamps for better visibility at night, while available HD Surround Vision helps with low-visibility parking when snow piles block your view. Rear Cross Traffic Braking lends confidence when backing out of tight spots, and the Rear Camera Mirror can provide a wider field of view when rear glass gets grimy. Inside, heated front seats and a heated steering wheel are standard across the lineup, and the cabin’s 11.3-inch diagonal infotainment touch-screen with Google built-in keeps navigation and communication one touch or voice command away. For drivers balancing school drop-offs, work commutes, and weekend errands, those conveniences matter when temperatures drop.
Beyond foul weather, the Equinox’s 1.5L Turbo engine and 175 hp deliver smooth, predictable power that’s easy to manage when conditions turn slick. If you regularly travel between neighborhoods, county roads, and regional highways, Adaptive Cruise Control can be a helpful companion for longer drives, and the Following Distance Indicator encourages smart spacing in stop-and-go traffic. When the sun returns and roads dry out, you’ll still appreciate the Equinox’s flexible cargo area—up to 63.5 cu. ft. max cargo volume with the seats folded—plus the available hands-free AutoSense Power Liftgate that makes loading gear simple when your hands are full.
In our experience working with Central Illinois shoppers, the winning winter setup often combines available all-wheel drive, a trim with the comfort features you love, and targeted driver assistance upgrades. If you’re weighing RS style against ACTIV’s off-road attitude, our team can walk you through how each trim’s suspension tuning, wheel and tire options, and available features align with your daily routes. We are committed to providing straightforward guidance that matches your needs, from winter-specific accessories to in-vehicle tech setup.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need all-wheel drive for winters around Macomb, IL?
Available all-wheel drive provides traction on demand and is a smart choice if you routinely face snow, slush, or unplowed side streets. Paired with the Drive Mode Selector, AWD adds confidence when conditions change hour by hour.
Which safety features help most in winter?
Chevy Safety Assist is standard and includes Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Front Pedestrian Braking, Following Distance Indicator, and IntelliBeam®. Consider adding HD Surround Vision, Rear Cross Traffic Braking, and a Rear Camera Mirror for low-visibility scenarios.
Is the ACTIV trim better for bad weather than RS?
ACTIV’s uniquely tuned suspension and all-terrain tires provide an adventurous setup that can feel reassuring on uneven or slick surfaces. RS emphasizes a sporty appearance with Black emblems, a unique grille and fascia, and available 20-inch wheels. Both can be equipped with available all-wheel drive—your choice depends on the look and road feel you prefer.
Will the cabin tech still work smoothly with gloves on?
The 11.3-inch diagonal infotainment touch-screen is responsive, and Google Assistant voice commands help reduce the need to tap the screen. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility and available wireless phone charging keep connections simple no matter the temperature.
Shoppers serving Winchester, Macomb, and Litchfield will find that the 2026 Equinox’s mix of traction, safety, and comfort features suits real Illinois winters. If you’d like personal guidance on trims, tires, and driver assistance options, our team is ready to help with a tailored test drive and setup. Visit or contact Jennings Auto Group to explore configurations that fit your daily routes and weather needs.
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