Chevrolet Equinox First Drive

Based on the available information and first drive reviews for the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox, here’s a summary of the key impressions as of late April 2025:

Overall Themes:

Improved Design: The 2025 Equinox features a more modern and somewhat rugged exterior styling, a noticeable departure from the previous generation. The interior has also been significantly upgraded with a new dashboard layout, digital displays, and improved materials.

User-Friendly Technology: A key highlight is the standard inclusion of an 11-inch digital instrument cluster and a larger 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with Google built-in and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Physical climate controls are a welcome addition.

Comfortable Ride: The Equinox is generally praised for its comfortable and stable ride quality, making it suitable for daily commuting and longer trips.
Adequate but Not Exciting Performance: All trims are powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (175 hp with FWD, 203 hp with AWD). While sufficient for everyday driving, acceleration is often described as adequate or “ho-hum,” especially with the CVT on front-wheel-drive models. The eight-speed automatic paired with AWD is generally preferred.
Focus on Value: The Equinox is positioned as a strong value proposition, offering a good list of standard features for its price.
Distinct Trim Personalities: The LT, RS (sporty), and Activ (rugged-inspired) trims offer different styling cues, but the core mechanicals remain similar.
Driving Experience:

Smooth and Predictable Handling: The steering is generally smooth, making the Equinox easy to maneuver. However, some find it lacking in feedback.
Modest Acceleration: The 1.5-liter engine provides enough power for typical driving but can feel strained under hard acceleration or with a full load.
Reasonable Fuel Economy: Fuel economy is competitive for the segment, with front-wheel-drive models achieving slightly better figures than all-wheel-drive versions.
Limited Off-Road Capability (Activ): While the Activ trim has all-terrain tires, its off-road prowess is limited to light trails and uneven surfaces.
Interior and Technology:

Spacious Cabin: The Equinox offers a spacious interior for its class, providing good passenger and cargo room.
Improved Materials: Reviewers note an improvement in interior material quality compared to the previous generation.
Intuitive Technology: The new infotainment system with Google built-in is generally praised for its ease of use.