2025 Chevrolet Equinox: Overshadowed by the Equinox EV
| Strong points |
|
|---|---|
| Weak points |
|
Launched in May of last year, the all-new Equinox EV (not to be confused with the model you see here) has enjoyed tremendous success so far, particularly in Quebec. It only took six months to surpass sales of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and even match the Tesla Model Y’s monthly performance. In doing so, Chevrolet was able to reach new customers including previous Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue and Toyota RAV4 owners.
While completely redesigned for 2025, the standard, gas-powered Equinox is living in the shadow of its battery-electric sibling. It’s almost as if the company didn’t care much about it. And yet, here we have a much more compelling product than in the past, with sharp looks and even a few attributes you won’t find in the Equinox EV.
- Also: 2025 Chevrolet Equinox: Sharply Evolved
- Also: 2025 GMC Terrain Follows Chevy Equinox’s Lead With Major Redesign
Among them is wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which GM’s electric vehicles lack. Then there’s a driver-oriented, 11.3-inch centre touchscreen along with physical HVAC controls and a column-mounted shifter that frees up space for storage. All of these features contribute to near-perfect ergonomics.
The interior is smartly laid out, offering plenty of room and improved visibility. The completely flat floor in the second row is another thing we like, while the 844-litre trunk (with the rear seats up) doesn’t rank among the most spacious in the compact SUV segment. The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, for instance, both can fit more cargo. Still, the area is conveniently designed to make the most of the available space.
In sporty RS trim (as tested), black is everywhere save for some red and blue stitching as well as reddish accents on the dashboard. The cabin has a darker atmosphere than the one in the Activ model, which is more geared for adventure. Granted, the cream-coloured interior of the latter may not suit everybody. As for the base Equinox LT, the plainly styled decor can be jazzed up with available black or khaki grey leatherette.
Disappointing Engine
Prior to 2020, the Equinox was available with a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine that delivered a solid 252 hp and burned about 10 percent more fuel than the standard 1.5-litre unit. The latter achieved a combined 8.7 L/100 km at the time, and as the lone engine option for 2025, it proves less fuel-efficient despite switching to a nine-speed automatic transmission (9.1 L/100 km combined). Yet, output has marginally increased in the process, going from 170 hp to 175 hp.
How can you explain that? Well, the new Equinox is heavier, for one thing. It’s also the reason why the small engine sometimes runs out of breath despite generating a healthy amount of low-end torque. Chevrolet’s lazy approach in the powertrain department pales in comparison with Ford’s, whose Escape offers four different options including two electrified ones. The equally new GMC Terrain is no better, mind you. It’s like General Motors decided to focus all its attention on the battery-powered Equinox instead.
All-wheel drive is optional in base LT trim and standard in both RS and Activ trim. It requires an extra of $2,300 over the FWD variant, which also lacks the aforementioned nine-speed transmission and relies on a CVT instead. Not only that, but the AWD-deprived Equinox suffers from torque steer under acceleration, making it less pleasant to drive. Incidentally, the AWD system we’re talking about is the same one as before and needs to be manually engaged by pressing a button next to the steering wheel, supposedly in the name of fuel economy. At least that’s what GM claims. But consider this: a Honda CR-V with similar displacement manages to produce 190 hp and use 7.5 percent less fuel with an automatic AWD system.
What About Comfort?
While a bit grumpy when pushed, the Chevy Equinox proves quiet at cruising speeds—more so than the previous generation, in fact. It’s surprisingly comfortable, too. The longer wheelbase versus most of the competition is no stranger to that, but we have to say the suspension has been expertly tuned, as well. Stability is remarkable and kind of makes up for the slight lack of precision from the steering. In other words, this is not a particularly fun SUV, but it feels solid and stands out in the comfort department. All that’s missing, really, is a proper hybrid system. Alas, Chevrolet doesn’t plan to offer one until 2027 at the earliest.
As for pricing, the 2025 Equinox is reasonably affordable, starting at an all-inclusive $36,533. For the record, the Equinox EV can be had from $48,333 before tax and incentives, and it comes with lower APR financing or leasing. If you drive a lot, the fuel savings will give you a return on your investment after just a few years. Plus, to be honest, the Equinox EV is a much more dynamic handler.
