Model tested: 2025 Chevrolet Equinox RS AWD
Engine: 1.5-liter turbocharged DOHC 4-cylinder gasoline
Transmission: 8-speed automatic, all-wheel drive
Horsepower: 175
Torque: 203 lb.-ft.
EPA ratings: 24 mpg/city, 29/highway, 26/combined
Base price: $35,000
As tested: $39,875
Overview: The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox RS AWD has been fully redesigned, and the results are a handsome, athletic-looking compact sport-utility vehicle (SUV) that gets its looks purposedly without tacked-on superfluous doodads. The new Equinox is 2 inches wider than the previous model. More important is a longer list of standard safety and driver assistance technologies. We tested the more pavement-friendly RS AWD model (Activ is the off-road trim) and found it well-suited for all-around family transportation. There is also an electric vehicle version of the Equinox.
Walkaround: Styling is distinctive but slightly conservative. A prominent Chevy “bowtie” on the grille quickly identifies the brand. The black roof and tinted glass provide a lower-looking profile. The machined-face, 19-inch wheels are a distinctive way to add bling. The doors shut with a solid thud, and the fit and finish are excellent — more in keeping with a luxury brand.
Interior: The interior is an Equinox strong point — spacious, with quality materials handsomely designed and executed. Front legroom is excellent but not at the expense of rear-seat passengers. Our tester had the optional power lumbar for both front seats, three-temp heated and ventilated front seats and heated outboard rear seats. A large open tray beneath the console is a bonus. The thick, heated, flat-bottom steering wheel is very comfortable. A flat floor makes the rear seat three-passenger friendly. The optional panoramic sunroof brings light all the way to the backseat. The large infotainment screen controls most functions — some of which we would have preferred as old-fashioned knobs. Cargo space is excellent, with a flat deck and a huge bonus storage area under the deck. The hatch opens extra high.
Behind the wheel: We were pleasantly surprised that the tiny 1.5-liter turbocharged I-4 was reasonably peppy. We’d welcome more power but the nonhybrid engine performed well and smoothly. The 8-speed automatic is excellent and there are mode choices for AWD, normal, off-road and snow. Safety features are plentiful and great, including cameras and the vibrating seat cushion alert. Ride and handling are competent but our mostly city driving only delivered a subpar 18.9 mpg.
Bottom line: The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox RS AWD is a viable competitor in the crowded compact SUV field. The handsomely redesigned Equinox impressed us as a high-quality, solidly built family vehicle. Interior space, comfort, technology and plentiful standard safety features were all pluses. Access to all areas was great. The highway ride was quiet and comfortable. Our biggest lament was the lack of a hybrid model.
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