Chevrolet is placing a significant emphasis on electric vehicles, with the Equinox EV playing a pivotal role as the anticipated volume model for the brand.
However, acknowledging that not everyone is fully ready for electric cars and considering the ongoing development of GM’s Ultium electric models, the need for an internal combustion option remains. Fortunately, the conventional gas-powered Equinox is undergoing a substantial redesign for the 2025 model year.
The redesign is comprehensive, encompassing both the exterior and interior. Chevrolet highlights that, along with a fresh appearance, the Equinox now sits on an entirely new platform.
In contrast to the previous SUV’s styling, the updated Equinox boasts a more robust and upright profile, featuring a significantly larger grille, squared-off wheel arches, pronounced fender flares, and sharper creases throughout.
The design includes a floating roof effect, accentuated by optional contrasting colors and distinct triangular sail-shaped C-pillars that stop just short of the roof.
Distinct trims offer varied styling. The RS trim, known for its sportier appeal, showcases a black roof, black mesh grille, and 19-inch wheels.
Meanwhile, the Activ trim, while nearly identical in equipment, presents a completely redesigned front fascia with a bold grille, 17-inch wheels equipped with aggressive all-terrain tires, and a white roof.
The interior follows a similar revamp, featuring an all-new design with a standard 11-inch digital instrument cluster and an 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen.
Notably, Chevrolet retains physical buttons and knobs for climate control, along with a volume knob, and ensures the continued availability of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The angular dash incorporates unique protruding trim pieces and turbine-inspired air vents. Trim-specific touches include translucent plastic elements around the air vents, with colors varying based on the trims.
The Activ and RS trims stand out with sharp interiors, such as the former’s contrasting black and tan leatherette and the latter’s black and red theme, each with unique perforated patterns and contrasting stitching. The interior now features a column-mounted electronic shifter.
Turning to the drivetrain, the turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine remains a constant, albeit with updates that increase its horsepower to 175, up from the current 170.
The engine is now paired with either a CVT or an eight-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous six-speed unit. Front-wheel-drive Equinoxes feature the CVT, while all-wheel-drive models are equipped with the automatic transmission.
The increased transmission ratios hold promise for improved fuel economy, surpassing the outgoing model’s 28 mpg combined with front-wheel drive and 26 mpg with all-wheel drive.
Chevrolet prioritizes safety by including a comprehensive list of standard features on all trims, such as front and rear automatic emergency braking, blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning, adaptive cruise control with lane-keep assist, and rear parking sensors.
Optional features encompass surround-view cameras, a digital rearview mirror, traffic sign recognition, speed assist, and rear pedestrian detection.
While pricing details are yet to be disclosed, expectations place the new base trim LT between $28,000 and $30,000, aligning it closely with the current LT model. The exact release date is pending, but the Equinox is anticipated to hit the market later this year.