Critics Consensus
Budget-conscious buyers seeking a tech-forward, modern compact SUV who prioritize affordable entry and upscale cabin feel over class-leading cargo space, performance, or long-term resale value—though quality control inconsistencies and tight cargo room warrant a test drive against the CR-V and RAV4.
7 Reviews
Redline Reviews gives the 2026 Equinox EV a solidly positive 67.9/100, praising its practical range (319 miles on FWD), strong performance (220 hp single motor, 300 hp dual motor), and attractive design that has "aged very well" with a "handsome" silhouette. However, the lower stance compromises headroom for rear passengers, and build quality concerns emerge with door rattles and uneven dashboard gaps that undermine the impression of durability. At $34,995, the Equinox EV offers solid value for those prioritizing range and styling, but Redline suggests test-driving competitors before committing, as options quickly increase the price.
▶ Watch Review ↗Auto Buyers Guide gives the 2026 Equinox EV a positive 65.9/100 score, calling it "one of America's zero compromise EVs" that directly challenges the Toyota RAV4 and Tesla Model Y. The vehicle's strongest appeal is its exceptional value—starting at $34,999 (or around $30,000 with typical discounts)—paired with solid tech features including large LCD displays and music streaming, plus strong range of 319 miles on the base FWD model. However, the Equinox stumbles on practicality with just 26.4 cubic feet of cargo space (below average for compact SUVs) and an awkwardly-positioned charging port, while the performance is mixed due to a low-voltage battery that maxes out at 150 kW DC charging. The Equinox EV is best suited for budget-conscious buyers prioritizing affordability and decent range over maximum cargo capacity and charging speed.
▶ Watch Review ↗SavageGeese gave the 2025 Equinox a positive 72.7/100 rating, praising its class-leading comfort with a soft, well-controlled suspension and refined ride quality that exceeds the RAV4, plus strong performance from its re-calibrated 1.5L turbo engine that delivers 203 lb-ft of torque and responsive throttle tuning. The aggressive pricing—starting under $30,000 for FWD and fully loaded under $40,000—makes it a compelling value proposition, though resale value lags behind Honda and Toyota competitors. Notable drawbacks include less cargo and passenger space than the CR-V and RAV4, doors that don't open to 90 degrees (problematic for child seats), and infotainment screens with backlight bleed issues at night, though the software itself is intuitive. The Equinox is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a comfortable, competent compact SUV who don't plan to keep the vehicle long-term.
▶ Watch Review ↗The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox RS receives a mixed 59/100 score, with Redline Reviews praising its exceptional value ($38,400 for the loaded test vehicle undercuts most rivals) and standout driving technology like the optional 360 camera system with curb view assistance. The redesigned exterior styling earns particular acclaim for its masculine, truck-like appearance with LED lighting throughout, and the interior technology received a major overhaul with two-person memory seats and an auto walkway lock function. However, the carryover 1.5L turbocharged engine delivers uninspiring performance with only 1,500 lbs towing capacity, and fuel economy actually decreased by 1 MPG on the highway despite the new 8-speed transmission, falling to just 24 city/29 highway. This Equinox suits practical buyers prioritizing value, technology, and design over driving dynamics or efficiency, though shoppers seeking more power or better gas mileage should explore competitors.
▶ Watch Review ↗Auto Buyers Guide gave the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox a strong 92/100 OctaneScore, praising its cabin technology, value, and modern design. The standout strengths include a dual 11-inch screen setup that's snappy and intuitive, starting price of $29,995 for the FWD LT with comprehensive standard features, and a complete redesign with truck-inspired styling and standard LED lighting across all trims. The main drawbacks are modest performance with a 9.1-second 0-60 time that's relatively slow for the segment and cargo space that trails competitors like the CR-V. The 2025 Equinox is ideal for budget-conscious buyers prioritizing tech, value, and design over outright performance or class-leading storage.
▶ Watch Review ↗Auto Buyers Guide gave the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox a perfect 100/100 rating with entirely positive feedback across all 37 highlights analyzed. The vehicle excels in design with its larger grille, gray anodized accents, and exclusive 17-inch all-terrain wheels on the Active trim, while also delivering strong value with the LT front-wheel drive starting at $29,995 and featuring standard amenities like dual 11-inch screens with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There are no noted negatives or drawbacks in this review. The 2025 Equinox is well-suited for budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical compact SUV with solid fuel economy (27 MPG combined for FWD), modern tech, and available off-road capability.
▶ Watch Review ↗Redline Reviews gives the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox Activ a mixed assessment (59/100), praising its bold, aggressive redesign that borrows styling cues from the Blazer and Trailblazer, along with standard LED lighting across all trim levels and quality cabin materials featuring suede Alcantara and leather bolsters. The reviewer highlights practical livability with nearly 30 cubic feet of cargo space expandable to 62 cubic feet, plus adaptive cruise control as standard equipment, though notably absent is Super Cruise availability and any hybrid powertrain option. Pricing is expected to climb a few thousand dollars above the current generation's $26,000-$42,000 range despite carrying over the same 1.5L turbocharged engine with 175 horsepower. This Equinox appeals to value-conscious buyers who prioritize modern styling and standard tech features over cutting-edge autonomous driving capabilities or fuel-saving hybrid options.
▶ Watch Review ↗