The electric vehicle (EV) landscape is rapidly evolving, and the 2025 Chevy Equinox EV is poised to be a game-changer. Offering a compelling blend of affordability, impressive range, and practical SUV functionality, the Equinox EV is attracting attention from both EV enthusiasts and those considering making the switch from gasoline-powered vehicles.
What Makes the 2025 Chevy Equinox EV Stand Out?
Several factors contribute to the Equinox EV’s rising popularity:
- Affordability: With a starting price around $35,000, the Equinox EV is one of the most affordable EVs on the market, making it accessible to a wider range of buyers. After the $7,500 federal EV tax credit, the price can drop below $28,000, further enhancing its appeal.(Forbes)
Impressive Range: The Equinox EV boasts an EPA-estimated range of up to 319 miles on a single charge, alleviating range anxiety and making it suitable for both daily commutes and longer road trips.(Chevrolet)
Practical SUV Design: As a compact SUV, the Equinox EV offers ample cargo space and comfortable seating for five passengers, making it a practical choice for families and individuals alike.
Modern Technology: The Equinox EV comes equipped with a range of modern technology features, including a large touchscreen infotainment system, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and over-the-air software update capabilities.
A Deep Dive into the 2025 Chevy Equinox EV
Pricing and Trims
While specific pricing may vary depending on location and available incentives, the following provides a general overview:
- LT: The base LT trim starts around $35,000 and offers a compelling set of standard features, including a 17.7-inch touchscreen, 19-inch wheels, and a suite of safety technologies.(Tom’s Guide)
- RS: The RS trim starts around $43,400 and adds sporty design elements, such as blacked-out exterior accents, larger wheels, and unique interior trim.
Range and Performance
The 2025 Equinox EV boasts an impressive EPA-estimated range of 319 miles on front-wheel-drive models.(Chevrolet) This generous range alleviates range anxiety, making it suitable for both daily commutes and longer road trips.
The FWD models are powered by a single electric motor producing 220 horsepower, while the AWD models feature a dual-motor setup with a combined output of 300 horsepower.(PCMag) While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the Equinox EV provides ample acceleration for everyday driving. Zero to 60 mph takes 7.4 seconds, which is perfectly adequate for most drivers.(MotorTrend)
Interior and Technology
The interior of the 2025 Equinox EV is well-designed and spacious, offering comfortable seating for five passengers. While the base models may feature more basic materials, the overall build quality is solid, and the design is modern and appealing.
One of the standout features of the Equinox EV is its impressive technology suite. All models come standard with a large 17.7-inch infotainment touch screen. It is the biggest screen of any non-luxury car in the industry.(YouTube) This screen integrates Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store, providing a seamless and intuitive user experience.
Charging
While the Equinox EV’s DC fast charging performance isn’t the fastest in its class, it’s still adequate for most drivers, especially considering its long range.
One important factor to consider is the Equinox EV’s battery pack voltage. It is relatively low compared to other EVs. This means that it requires a higher amperage to achieve its maximum charging rate. To optimize charging speed, it’s recommended to use DC fast chargers. They can deliver higher amperage, such as Tesla Superchargers or 350 kW chargers.(YouTube)
Real-World Reviews and Opinions
Early reviews of the 2025 Chevy Equinox EV have been largely positive, with critics praising its affordability, range, and overall value proposition.
- Motortrend: Highlights the value of the base LT model, noting its “fantastic value for $35K” and “better ride than RS, plus respectable handling.” (Motortrend)
- A Girls Guide to Cars: The reviewer was so impressed with the Equinox EV that she leased one herself. Praising its “cracking good EV” status and calling it “an absolute steal” for the price. (A Girls Guide to Cars)
- PCMag: Awards the Equinox EV an Editors’ Choice, citing its “compelling small electric SUV” status with “more than 300 miles of range, a stylish exterior and interior.
- The Drive: While critical of GM’s decision to exclude Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the reviewer acknowledges the Equinox EV’s immense value, calling it “a lot of car—especially for its base price of $34,995.” (The Drive)
- Tom’s Guide: Highlights the efficiency that was achieved during testing and notes that it charges incredibly fast with Level 1 charging at home. (Tom’s Guide)
Potential Downsides and Considerations Of Equinox EV
While the Equinox EV has garnered significant praise, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider:
- Lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: GM’s decision to exclude these smartphone mirroring technologies has been a point of contention for some reviewers.
- Charging Speed: While the Equinox EV supports DC fast charging, its peak charging speed may not be as high as some competitors.
- Interior Materials: The interior design is modern and spacious. Some reviewers have noted that the quality of certain materials could be improved.
The Competition
The 2025 Chevy Equinox EV enters a competitive market segment with several compelling alternatives. Key competitors include:
Tesla Model Y: The Model Y offers a longer range and quicker acceleration, but it comes at a higher price point.
Volkswagen ID.4: The ID.4 is another affordable electric SUV with a spacious interior and comfortable ride.
The Equinox EV’s Impact on the EV Market
- Making EVs More Accessible: Its affordable price point will attract a broader range of consumers to the EV segment.
- Driving Competition: The combination of price, range, and features will put pressure on other automakers to offer more competitive EV options.
- Accelerating EV Adoption: By offering a practical and appealing EV option, it will contribute to the overall growth and adoption of electric vehicles.
Purchase and Availability
The 2025 Chevy Equinox EV is currently available for purchase at Chevrolet dealerships across the United States. Check the Chevrolet website or your local dealership for specific information on pricing, inventory, and ordering options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the starting price of the 2025 Chevy Equinox EV?
A: The starting price is around $35,000, before any applicable tax credits or incentives.
Q: Does it support fast charging?
A: Yes, the Equinox EV supports DC fast charging, allowing you to add up to 77 miles of range in 10 minutes.
Q: What safety features does the Equinox EV have?
A: The EV comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control.
Conclusion
The 2025 Chevy Equinox EV represents a significant step forward in the electric vehicle market. Its affordability, impressive range, and practical SUV design make it a compelling option for a wide range of buyers. While there are a few potential drawbacks to consider, the Equinox EV’s overall value proposition is undeniable, and it is poised to play a key role in accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles.
