2025 Equinox AWD: the ultimate savvy SUV for modern families

With its perfect blend of style, comfort, and cutting-edge features, this versatile vehicle is designed to meet the demands of your busy lifestyle while keeping everyone safe and entertained on the go.

The 2025 Equinox AWD is a safe, comfortable, and tech-savvy family SUV that offers ample space, easy-to-use controls, and a smooth ride quality. If your main priorities are comfort and user-friendliness instead of sporty performance or top-tier acceleration, it’s a solid choice. However, drivers who seek a more exciting driving experience or greater fuel efficiency might prefer alternatives like the Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, or Mazda CX-50. In future models, Chevy could enhance the Equinox by introducing a hybrid powertrain or a more powerful engine option.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox AWD features a comprehensive redesign for Chevy’s bestselling compact SUV, successfully addressing many key aspects while allowing for some enhancements.

Let’s dive into the specifics:

The Ride and Comfort of the Equinox excel in everyday comfort. Its suspension is designed for a soft and absorbent ride, effectively absorbing bumps and rough pavement, particularly in urban settings. The seats are generously cushioned and supportive, featuring modern amenities such as power height adjustment, heating, and ventilation (available on higher trims). Rear passengers also benefit from their vents and charging ports, ensuring a comfortable experience for everyone during long journeys.

Inside the cabin, the atmosphere is impressively upscale for a mainstream compact SUV. It features soft-touch surfaces, sensible plastic materials, and a modern infotainment system that includes Google built-in and wireless Android Auto, all laid out logically on the dashboard. There are plenty of storage compartments available, and the cargo area is spacious, offering up to 63.5 cubic feet of space when the seats are folded down. Additionally, there is a hidden storage compartment under the floor for added convenience.

 The vehicle features an 11.3-inch diagonal LCD, with infotainment and connectivity as key highlights. It includes a large touchscreen, wireless phone integration, and intuitive climate controls that utilize tactile knobs. The newly designed stalk-mounted gear shifter frees up space in the center console and is easy to use once you become familiar with it.

Where It Misses the Mark

Performance: The only available engine is a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 175 horsepower. While this power is sufficient for light-duty use, the acceleration lacks vigor, particularly when merging onto highways or carrying a full load. Generally, you may want more power. However, the engine operates smoothly and quietly. Competing models, especially hybrid crossovers, typically offer more responsive and efficient powertrains. The Equinox features an 8-speed automatic transmission that downshifts confidently, but it cannot make up for the engine’s modest output.

The Driving Experience: The driving experience is pleasant, with the steering feeling light and comfortable at low speeds—ideal for parking. However, it becomes vague and unresponsive at higher speeds. The handling is average, and the soft suspension causes the Equinox to roll and bounce more than sportier competitors. If you push it on winding roads, you’ll notice significant body lean and a lack of sharpness that some drivers may find disappointing.

Fuel Economy is decent. Official estimates for the AWD model are 24mpg city/29mpg highway/26mpg combined, which trails hybrids and the segment’s leaders. Real-world results hover around 23–28mpg, depending on conditions—acceptable, but not standout for a compact crossover.

For many families, the Equinox is more than just a vehicle; it’s a good SUV that meets all their needs with style and comfort.