Finding an SUV that balances capability with efficiency has never been more important for Canadian drivers. Rising fuel costs and environmental considerations are reshaping how families evaluate their next vehicle, and Chevrolet's 2026 SUV lineup delivers options across the efficiency spectrum - from zero-emission electric models to surprisingly frugal diesel-powered full-size haulers.
This definitive ranking examines every 2026 Chevrolet SUV available to Ontario buyers, ordered from most to least efficient. Whether you're prioritizing plug-in savings or highway mileage on cross-province road trips, understanding where each model sits on the efficiency ladder helps you make an informed choice without sacrificing the space and versatility your family needs.
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The Zero-Emission Leaders: Chevrolet's Electric SUVs

Equinox EV: Best Overall Efficiency
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV claims the top efficiency spot with zero tailpipe emissions and up to 513 kilometres of range on the front-wheel-drive configuration. The 85 kWh Ultium battery pack powers a 220 hp electric motor in FWD models, delivering 243 lb-ft of torque for confident acceleration while eliminating fuel stops entirely.
Dual-motor all-wheel-drive versions produce 300 hp and 355 lb-ft, reducing range to 494 kilometres but adding all-weather traction. The Equinox EV supports 150 kW DC fast charging, allowing drivers to add substantial range during coffee breaks on longer journeys. With 1,620 litres of maximum cargo capacity, this electric compact SUV proves efficiency doesn't require downsizing.
Blazer EV: Performance Without Emissions
The 2026 Blazer EV occupies the second efficiency position with multiple configurations serving different priorities. The RS rear-wheel-drive variant achieves up to 538 kilometres of range thanks to its 102 kWh battery pack, while the 365 hp and 325 lb-ft output delivers engaging performance.
Front-wheel-drive models offer 502 kilometres of range, and all-wheel-drive configurations provide 455 kilometres with enhanced traction. The performance-focused SS trim generates 615 hp and 650 lb-ft in WOW mode, accelerating from 0-96 km/h in under 3.4 seconds while maintaining 488 kilometres of range. All Blazer EV models feature 190 kW DC fast charging and a standard 17.7-inch touchscreen with Google Built-in integration.
Compact Efficiency Champions: Gasoline-Powered Options

Trailblazer: Dual-Engine Versatility
The 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer ranks third overall with strong fuel economy figures that vary by powertrain choice. Front-wheel-drive models equipped with the 1.2L Turbo 3-cylinder engine achieve 7.8 L/100 km city and 7.7 L/100 km highway, making this configuration the most efficient gasoline-powered SUV in Chevrolet's lineup.
All-wheel-drive versions utilize a more powerful 1.3L Turbo 3-cylinder engine producing 155 hp and 174 lb-ft, with fuel consumption increasing to 9.1 L/100 km city and 8.1 L/100 km highway. The 716 litres of cargo space behind the second row expands to 1,541 litres with seats folded, and the fold-flat front passenger seat accommodates items up to 2.5 metres long.
Trailblazer Efficiency Highlights:
- Most efficient gas-powered Chevrolet SUV at 7.7 L/100 km highway (1.2L FWD)
- Available 1.3L AWD engine balances efficiency with all-weather capability
- Fold-flat front passenger seat maximizes cargo versatility
- ACTIV trim adds off-road-tuned suspension without major efficiency penalty
Trax: Urban-Friendly Efficiency
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax claims fourth position with 8.5 L/100 km city, 7.6 L/100 km highway, and 8.1 L/100 km combined ratings. The 1.2L ECOTEC Turbo 3-cylinder engine produces 137 hp and 162 lb-ft, paired exclusively with front-wheel drive and a 6-speed automatic transmission.
This subcompact SUV offers 724 litres of cargo capacity with seats upright, expanding to 1,531 litres when the rear seats fold flat. The 11-inch HD touchscreen standard on LT and higher trims includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the compact 4,536 mm length makes parking in tight urban spaces effortless.
Equinox Gas: Redesigned Efficiency
The redesigned 2026 Chevrolet Equinox with gasoline power ranks fifth, achieving 9.2 L/100 km city and 8.1 L/100 km highway in front-wheel-drive configuration. The 1.5L Turbo 4-cylinder engine generates 175 hp with 184 lb-ft of torque for FWD models, increasing to 203 lb-ft when paired with all-wheel drive.
All-wheel-drive versions consume 9.6 L/100 km city and 8.1 L/100 km highway, delivering enhanced traction with minimal efficiency impact. The RS and ACTIV trims come standard with AWD in the Canadian market, with ACTIV adding all-terrain tires for light off-road capability while maintaining competitive fuel economy.
Full-Size Efficiency: The Diesel Advantage

Tahoe and Suburban with Duramax Diesel
The 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban equipped with the second-generation 3.0L Duramax diesel engine rank sixth in overall efficiency while delivering full-size capability. This advanced turbodiesel produces 305 hp and 495 lb-ft of torque, providing superior highway fuel economy that rivals much smaller SUVs on long-distance cruising.
The Duramax option transforms full-size SUV ownership for families who regularly cover highway miles. The high-torque diesel architecture delivers major efficiency gains over gasoline V8 alternatives, particularly during sustained highway driving where diesel engines operate most efficiently.
Tahoe & Suburban Diesel Advantages:
- 495 lb-ft of torque for confident towing and passing power
- Superior highway efficiency compared to 5.3L and 6.2L V8 options
- Proven second-generation Duramax reliability
- Available on both Tahoe and extended-length Suburban platforms
Traverse: Midsize Three-Row Efficiency
The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse occupies seventh position with its 2.5L Turbo 4-cylinder engine producing 328 hp and 326 lb-ft. Standard all-wheel drive in the Canadian market provides year-round traction, while the 8-speed automatic transmission optimizes efficiency across driving conditions.
This midsize three-row SUV delivers best-in-class 2,764 litres of maximum cargo capacity and tows up to 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs). The Z71 trim adds twin-clutch AWD with a 1-inch lift for enhanced off-road capability, while the RS features 22-inch wheels and standard Super Cruise hands-free driving technology.
Tahoe and Suburban with V8 Power
The 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban with gasoline V8 engines rank eighth in efficiency but deliver unmatched capability for buyers prioritizing towing capacity and V8 performance. The standard 5.3L V8 produces 355 hp and 383 lb-ft, while the available 6.2L V8 generates 420 hp and 460 lb-ft.
These full-size SUVs tow up to 3,810 kg (8,400 lbs) when properly equipped, making them ideal for families towing travel trailers or boats. The 17.7-inch centre touchscreen and 11-inch Driver Information Centre provide modern connectivity, while available Air Ride Adaptive suspension and Magnetic Ride Control enhance ride quality.
Efficiency Comparison: Electric vs. Gasoline vs. Diesel

|
Model
|
Powertrain
|
Efficiency Metric
|
Range/Economy
|
Ideal Use Case
|
|
Equinox EV
|
Electric (FWD)
|
Zero emissions
|
513 km range
|
Daily commuting, urban driving
|
|
Blazer EV
|
Electric (RWD)
|
Zero emissions
|
538 km range
|
Performance with efficiency
|
|
Trailblazer
|
1.2L Gas (FWD)
|
L/100 km
|
7.7 highway
|
Budget-conscious buyers
|
|
Trax
|
1.2L Gas (FWD)
|
L/100 km
|
7.6 highway
|
Urban parking, solo drivers
|
|
Equinox Gas
|
1.5L Gas (FWD)
|
L/100 km
|
8.1 highway
|
Versatile family hauler
|
|
Tahoe/Suburban
|
3.0L Diesel
|
L/100 km
|
9.0 highway
|
Long-distance highway cruising
|
|
Traverse
|
2.5L Gas (AWD)
|
L/100 km
|
9.9 highway
|
Three-row families
|
|
Tahoe/Suburban
|
5.3L/6.2L V8
|
L/100 km
|
12.0 highway
|
Maximum towing capability
|
Which Efficiency Level Fits Your Needs?
Choosing the right efficiency tier depends on your driving patterns and priorities. Electric models eliminate fuel costs entirely and suit drivers with predictable daily routes and home charging access. The Equinox EV and Blazer EV deliver zero-emission driving without compromising space or technology.
Compact gasoline models like the Trailblazer and Trax excel for budget-conscious buyers prioritizing low purchase prices and strong highway economy. These smaller SUVs work well for singles, couples, or small families who don't require three-row seating.
Full-size SUV buyers shouldn't assume poor efficiency is inevitable. The Duramax diesel option in the Tahoe and Suburban delivers highway mileage that challenges conventional assumptions about large vehicles, particularly for families who regularly cover long distances or tow recreational equipment.