As the compact SUV segment continues to swell with an array of options, Chevrolet has taken a bold step forward with the redesigned 2025 Equinox. This latest iteration of the popular crossover aims to strike a delicate balance between rugged capability and refined comfort, appealing to buyers seeking a versatile companion for their active lifestyles.
Exterior: A Muscular Makeover
The 2025 Equinox’s exterior design has undergone a comprehensive transformation, shedding its previously understated skin for a more assertive and adventurous persona. The front fascia is dominated by a prominent grille that commands attention, while the angular body lines and squared-off proportions lend the Equinox a muscular and substantial presence on the road.
This rugged aesthetic is further accentuated by the available 19-inch alloy wheels and the option of a blacked-out trim package, which adds a touch of menacing flair to the Equinox’s already imposing stance. Yet, despite its brawny demeanor, the Equinox retains a sense of refinement, with sleek LED lighting elements and carefully sculpted body panels that hint at its aerodynamic efficiency.
Interior: A Sanctuary of Technology and Comfort
Step inside the 2025 Equinox, and you’ll be greeted by a cabin that seamlessly blends cutting-edge technology with premium appointments. The centerpiece of this modern sanctuary is the 11.3-inch infotainment display, which runs Chevrolet’s latest Google-based infotainment system. This intuitive interface not only provides access to navigation via Google Maps but also serves as a gateway to a host of connected services, ensuring that you remain seamlessly integrated with the digital world.
Complementing this digital command center is an 11.0-inch digital gauge cluster, which can be tailored to suit individual preferences, providing a customizable and engaging driving experience. The Equinox’s interior design is further elevated by the bold styling of the dashboard, which features a pair of prominent round air vents that add a touch of retro flair to the otherwise contemporary aesthetic.
Performance: Efficient and Capable
Under the hood, the 2025 Equinox retains the outgoing model’s turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which delivers a respectable 175 horsepower. While not a class leader in terms of outright acceleration, the Equinox’s powertrain is tuned for efficiency and practicality, making it a sensible choice for those seeking a balance between performance and fuel economy.
Front-wheel-drive models are paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), which helps to maximize efficiency, while all-wheel-drive variants receive a traditional eight-speed automatic gearbox for added traction and control in adverse conditions.
Fuel Economy: Sipping Fuel with Ease
The EPA estimates that the front-wheel-drive 2025 Equinox will achieve an impressive 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, with the all-wheel-drive models seeing a slight reduction in those figures. However, real-world testing by the experts at Car and Driver suggests that the Equinox may even surpass these estimates, with a front-wheel-drive model achieving an impressive 32 mpg on their 75-mph fuel economy route.
Interior Space and Cargo: Accommodating Your Lifestyle
One of the Equinox’s strengths lies in its ability to accommodate both passengers and cargo with ease. The cabin offers ample space for front and rear occupants, with generous legroom and headroom ensuring a comfortable journey, even on longer excursions.
While some rivals may offer slightly more cargo space behind the rear seats, the Equinox still manages to impress, swallowing eight carry-on suitcases in Car and Driver’s testing. This practicality, combined with the available roof rails and towing package, makes the Equinox a versatile companion for those with active lifestyles or frequent cargo-hauling needs.
Safety and Driver Assistance: Prioritizing Peace of Mind
Chevrolet understands that safety is a paramount concern for modern buyers, and the 2025 Equinox delivers with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features. Standard equipment includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist, among others, providing an added layer of protection and peace of mind.
For those seeking even more advanced safety technologies, higher trim levels and option packages offer features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control, further enhancing the Equinox’s safety credentials and making it a reassuring choice for families or those who frequently navigate congested urban environments.
As the compact SUV segment continues to evolve, the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox emerges as a compelling option for buyers seeking a well-rounded package of rugged capability, refined comfort, and cutting-edge technology. With its bold new design, tech-focused interior, and impressive efficiency, the Equinox is poised to turn heads and capture the hearts of those seeking a versatile companion for their active lifestyles.
