While these electric vehicles from Chevrolet and Tesla don’t directly compete, many find the Chevrolet brand’s affordable battery-electric SUV to be a compelling option. The Equinox EV not only boasts a more practical SUV body style compared to Tesla’s sedan, but it also comes loaded with standard features.
The base price of the Tesla Model 3 in May 2024 is $38,990, and it has a driving range of 272 miles when equipped with rear-wheel drive. In the meanwhile, General Motors sells the Equinox EV, which has a front-wheel drive system with a range of up to 319 miles, for $34,995.
Scheduled for release later in 2024, the 1LT trim includes features like 19-inch aluminum wheels, an 11-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 17.7-inch infotainment system with Google Built-In. Stepping up to the 2LT adds even more, such as the AutoSense power liftgate, HD Surround Vision, heated front seats with eight-way power adjustments for the driver, and various other enhancements, albeit at a higher price of $43,295 before freight.
The Equinox EV’s trim lineup extends to the 2RS, 3LT, and 3RS, priced at $44,795, $45,295, and $46,795, respectively, for front-wheel-drive versions. Opting for the dual-motor configuration adds $3,300 to the price tag of the 2LT. However, according to EPA estimates, the Equinox EV eAWD achieves a range of up to 285 miles, slightly less than the 341 miles offered by the Tesla Model 3 Long Range All-Wheel Drive.
While some may argue that Tesla holds greater appeal than Chevrolet’s EV, it’s essential to recognize the distinct differences between General Motors and Tesla. Additionally, basing a car purchase solely on its perceived cool factor may reflect a degree of vanity and external validation.
Manufactured in Mexico, the Equinox EV offers up to 57.2 cubic feet (1,614 liters) of cargo space with the rear seats folded down, making it slightly less spacious than the Model Y but more accommodating than the Model 3. With its blend of features, the Equinox EV presents a compelling alternative to Tesla, particularly with its Super Cruise semi-autonomous driving system available as an option, challenging Tesla’s Autopilot.