Chevy Equinox EV Review: Affordable 319-Mile Range Crossover
Chevy Equinox EV: The New Value Champion in Electric SUVs?
The search for an affordable electric SUV with legitimate range often leads to compromises. But what if you could get 319 miles per charge, available tax credits dropping the price to $27,495, and practical family features? After analyzing Chevy's latest Ultium platform vehicle, I believe the Equinox EV shatters expectations. Having scrutinized its real-world capabilities and compared it segment rivals, this crossover delivers unprecedented value without sacrificing daily usability.
Design & Exterior: Standout Style Meets Function
Unlike bulkier Ultium platform siblings, the Equinox EV adopts a sleek, "getaway car" profile (as our test driver noted) that's 2.7 inches longer than its gas counterpart. The full-width light bar and textured carbon-fiber lower grille create premium presence without flashiness. Galaxy Gray Metallic paint deserves special mention – its chameleon-like shift between dolphin gray and lilac metallic exemplifies Chevy's bold color strategy.
Standard 19-inch wheels (21s on higher trims) and available roof rails enhance practicality. Cargo space measures 26.4 cubic feet behind rear seats (57.2 folded), slightly less than Hyundai Ioniq 5 but offset by roof carrier compatibility. The power liftgate comes standard on 2LT and above trims – a thoughtful inclusion at this price point.
Interior & Comfort: Smart Tech, Questionable Omissions
Step inside the 2LT trim’s "Black with Blue Accents" interior, and you’ll find EVOTECH synthetic leather seats (wipe-clean friendly), heated front seats/steering wheel, and an impressive 41.7 inches of front legroom – besting the Ioniq 5 and VW ID.4. The 39.2 inches of front headroom accommodates taller drivers comfortably.
However, our analysis reveals two puzzling omissions:
- Dual-zone climate control absent until 3LT trim
- No standard power passenger seat
Compared to segment norms, these exclusions feel disproportionate to the otherwise generous equipment. Ventilated seats and heated rears arrive on 3LT, but expect to pay over $46,000 for those premium touches.
Driving Experience & Performance
Key Specs:
- FWD: 213 hp / 236 lb-ft torque (319-mile range)
- AWD: 288 hp / 333 lb-ft torque (285-mile range)
- 85 kWh Battery: Charges 77 miles in 10 mins DC fast charging
- Towing: 1,500 lbs max capacity
Unlike many EVs delivering neck-snapping acceleration, Chevy tuned the Equinox EV for traditional drivers. Power builds linearly rather than aggressively, easing the transition for first-time EV owners. The Normal/Sport/Snow-Ice/My Mode drive selectors let you customize steering weight and regenerative braking, including one-pedal driving (optional, not forced).
Handling is competent though not sporty, prioritizing comfort over engagement. The lack of a start/stop button (enter, brake, drive) feels futuristic but may unsettle traditionalists. After testing both drivetrains, I recommend FWD for maximum range unless you regularly encounter severe winters.
Technology & Safety Analysis
The Infotainment Divide:
The standard 17.7-inch center display dominates the cabin but lacks Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Google Built-in provides navigation and voice commands, yet text management remains cumbersome versus smartphone projection. This remains a significant drawback for connected drivers.
Standard Safety Suite Includes:
- Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Lane keep assist with departure warning
- Rear parking sensors and cross-traffic alert
- Teen Driver technology monitoring system
The available $2,700 Super Cruise package adds hands-free highway driving and enhanced parking assist – a competitive price for this capability. Over-the-air updates future-proof the system, though subscription costs post-trial remain unclear.
Pricing & Competitive Value
Trim Breakdown (Including Destination):
- 2024 2LT: $43,295 (as tested $49,595 with options)
- 2025 1LT (New Base): $34,995 ($27,495 after $7,500 tax credit)
Competitor Comparison:
| Model | Base Price | Max Range | Tax Credit Eligible? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chevy Equinox EV | $34,995 | 319 miles | Yes |
| Nissan Ariya | $39,590 | 216 miles | No |
| VW ID.4 | $38,995 | 291 miles | Yes |
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 | $41,650 | 220 miles | No |
The Equinox EV’s combination of 85 kWh battery, 319-mile range, and post-credit pricing undercuts rivals significantly. While the ID.4 comes closest on value, it can’t match the Chevy’s range or interior space. The 2025 base model’s promised specs could make it the most compelling affordable EV on the market.
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy It?
The Equinox EV excels for:
- Budget-focused families needing practical range
- First-time EV adopters wanting traditional driving dynamics
- Cost-conscious buyers maximizing tax credits
Compromises like no dual-zone climate control in lower trims and absent smartphone integration may deter tech-centric shoppers. But for those prioritizing range-per-dollar, Chevy has delivered a segment redefining package. As one industry analyst noted, "This finally makes 300+ mile EVs accessible to mainstream buyers."
Which Equinox EV feature matters most to your driving needs? Share your deal-breakers below!
Pro Tip: Use CarGurus' Deal Rating tool to identify fairly-priced Equinox EV inventory near you. Market data shows early adopters paying near MSRP, but prices should stabilize by 2025 base model launch.
