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Chevrolet Equinox used to blend into the parking lot. Not anymore. For 2025, Chevy’s quietly polished this compact SUV into something that feels unexpectedly substantial. The proportions are tighter, the stance wider (especially in RS trim), and the cabin? It’s all about thoughtful touches: wide-opening doors for wrestling car seats, rear legroom that doesn’t punish adults, and cargo space that expands with one tug. No drama – just smart design that works.
Performance: Where It Counts
Don’t expect fireworks. Do expect confidence.
This isn’t a sport SUV, and that’s okay. The Equinox prioritizes smooth, predictable power for school runs, commutes, or slippery roads. The 1.5L turbo won’t pin you to your seat, but its torque arrives early – making merges and hill climbs feel effortless. Choose AWD, and you unlock a notably smoother 8-speed transmission (versus the FWD’s adequate CVT).
| Spec | FWD | AWD | Real-World Take |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L Turbo I-4 | 1.5L Turbo I-4 | Same engine, different personalities |
| Horsepower | 175 hp | 175 hp | Adequate, not exciting |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft | AWD pulls stronger from stops |
| Transmission | CVT | 8-Speed Auto | 8-speed is smoother, more responsive |
| 0-60 mph | ~9.5 sec | ~9.0 sec | Confident, not quick |
| Towing Capacity | 800 lbs | 1,500 lbs | AWD: Small trailers/jet skis |
| Driving Modes | Normal/Sport | + Off-Road | Sport tightens steering; Off-Road tweaks AWD |
Key Insight: Opt for AWD even if you rarely see snow. The 8-speed transmission and extra torque transform the driving feel – it’s the hidden upgrade most reviewers miss.
Living With It: The Quiet Perks
Fuel Efficiency That Makes Sense
You’ll see 26-28 MPG combined (FWD) or 24-29 MPG (AWD). Not class-leading, but the 15.6-gallon tank nets 400+ miles of range. Translation? Fewer gas stops on road trips.
Trim Choices That Aren’t a Trap
Chevy simplified the lineup:
- LT ($30k-ish): The smart choice. Gets the 11.3-inch touchscreen, wireless CarPlay, and digital gauges standard. No begging for basics.
- RS: Adds blacked-out style, 19-inch wheels, sport seats. For those who hate “generic SUV” vibes.
- ACTIV: Rugged looks, roof rails, water-repellent seats. Think “hiking boots,” not rock crawling.
Best part? No paywall for core tech. Even base models feel premium.
Tech That Stays Out of Your Way
The interface is refreshingly simple. Physical knobs for climate control (hallelujah!), a crisp 11.3-inch screen, and wireless phone mirroring that just works. Optional extras like surround-view cameras or adaptive cruise are there if you want them – not forced.
Safety You Can Feel
Every Equinox includes automatic emergency braking, lane keeping, and pedestrian detection. RS/ACTIV trims add available blind-spot steering assist – a legit lifesaver in city traffic.
Why It Wins Quietly
The 2025 Equinox won’t scream for attention. It doesn’t have hybrid hype or flashy horsepower numbers. What it offers is harder to quantify: competence.
- It cossets you from road noise better than rivals.
- The AWD system feels trustworthy, not just a checkbox.
- Controls fall intuitively to hand – no diving through menus to turn off the seat heater.
- You get real space (people + cargo) without a bloated footprint.
For drivers tired of SUVs that shout, the Equinox feels like a deep breath. It’s the anti-hype crossover – and that’s why it might be Chevy’s smartest play yet.
“It won’t thrill you on a backroad. It will *get you home relaxed after a 5-hour highway grind.”*
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