The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV offers a solid option for those looking for an affordable electric SUV, though it comes with some trade-offs. While it shares its foundation with the top-notch Bolt EV, the Equinox EV faces stiff competition from rivals like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, and Ford Mustang Mach-E. Despite its appealing price and strong range, the Equinox EV has some shortcomings in terms of performance. For instance, the entry-level model delivers a respectable 262 miles of range but takes a relatively slow 7.4 seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph. On the other hand, the more powerful all-wheel-drive variant is much quicker, offering an impressive 5.7-second acceleration time. The driving experience is neither too sporty nor overly soft, making the SUV a solid all-around choice. If you’re someone who regularly drives on rough roads, you should know that the larger 21-inch wheels can make the ride a bit harsh compared to the 19-inch.
Performance
Both the front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) models of the Equinox EV receive slight power increases for 2025. The FWD variant now generates 220 horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque, while the AWD model delivers 300 horsepower and 355 lb-ft of torque. The AWD version offers impressive acceleration, reaching 0 to 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds, whereas the FWD variant takes a more relaxed 7.4 seconds. While the overall driving experience is solid, it lacks the sportiness of some competitors.
Range and Charging
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV excels in range, with the FWD model capable of up to 319 miles on a full charge, putting it on the same level as rivals like the Tesla Model Y Long Range. The AWD version offers a solid 307 miles of range, trailing slightly behind the Model Y’s 308 miles but still competitive enough. The Equinox EV can charge at a peak rate of 150 kW, which is slower than the 230 or 250 kW found in the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6. Chevrolet, however, claims that DC fast charging can add about 70 miles of range in just 10 minutes, while its Level 2 charging adds 34 miles of range per hour, making it reasonably convenient for everyday use, but a bit problematic for heavy users.
Interior and Features
The Equinox EV provides a spacious and comfortable cabin, and the large screens look impressive, but Chevrolet doesn’t support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, a feature many expect in modern vehicles. Drivers may have to pay a subscription fee for services like Spotify and Google Maps which can be inconvenient. On the positive side, the interior offers a decent amount of legroom, with 41.7 inches in the front and 38 inches in the rear, and up to 57.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats down.
Safety Features
The 2025 Equinox EV comes well-equipped with standard safety features, including forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist and reverse auto braking. These features help the Equinox EV compete well in the safety department, ensuring it provides both value and protection for those looking for an everyday family vehicle.
Pricing and Trims
The pricing for the Equinox EV starts at $34,995 for the base LT model. For those looking to upgrade, the RS trim starts at around $44,700 and includes sportier details like a black roof and a flat-bottom steering wheel. Higher trims with additional packages can push the price even higher, making the top-level models cost above $46,000. Despite the competitive price of the base model, some buyers may find the value questionable in the higher trims, particularly if certain premium features are missing.
Overall, the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV is a solid choice for those seeking a relatively affordable, spacious, and practical electric SUV. It offers a great range, a comfortable interior, and a well-rounded driving experience. It however faces some stiff competition and falls short in areas like performance and available features, especially in higher trims. While it may not be the most exciting EV on the market, it remains a practical and cost-effective option for many buyers.
