The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox has arrived, and with it, a fresh take on the compact crossover that aims to capture the hearts of American drivers. The Equinox, Chevy’s contender in the fiercely competitive segment against stalwarts like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, enters its fourth generation with a completely new design and a focus on value and style. One trim level, the Equinox Activ, tries to inject a bit of off-road flair into the equation with all-terrain tires and a slightly lifted stance, but does it add up to more than just a cosmetic upgrade? In this comprehensive review, we delve into the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox, focusing on the Activ trim, to see if it lives up to the hype and if it deserves a spot on your shopping list. We’ll explore its design, interior comfort, technology, driving dynamics, and overall value to give you a detailed perspective in this crowded market of crossovers.
The Chevrolet Equinox has been a familiar name in the crossover landscape for two decades, consistently offering a practical and affordable option for families and commuters. For 2025, Chevrolet has completely redesigned the Equinox, aiming to elevate its appeal and competitiveness. The Activ trim, featured here, stands out with its attempt to blend rugged aesthetics with everyday usability. It’s equipped with all-terrain tires, unique five-spoke wheels, and a subtly increased ride height compared to the standard Equinox models. These features suggest a nod towards off-road capability, but it’s crucial to understand the Activ’s true intentions. It’s not designed to tackle challenging trails like a Ford Bronco or Jeep Wrangler; instead, it’s meant to offer a more adventurous look and a bit more confidence on varied road surfaces, perhaps appealing to those who appreciate the outdoorsy style without needing hardcore off-roading prowess.
2025 Chevrolet Equinox Activ Front View on a paved road
Stepping inside the 2025 Equinox Activ, you’ll find a cabin that mirrors the design language of other modern Chevrolet vehicles. While the Activ trim doesn’t boast exclusive off-road themed interior elements, the overall design is functional and reasonably upscale for its price point. The tan and black two-tone seats in the test model are visually appealing, and the materials used throughout the cabin feel appropriate for the vehicle’s class. Ergonomics are well-considered, with controls logically placed and easy to reach. Ample storage cubbies are available for stowing everyday items.
The technology within the Equinox is a definite highlight. The dashboard is dominated by a large infotainment screen, a familiar and well-regarded system found across the Chevrolet lineup. This system is praised for its user-friendliness, responsiveness, and features. However, the digital gauge cluster receives a less enthusiastic assessment. Some find it to be overly compact and information-dense, potentially making it difficult to quickly read driving information. Despite this minor drawback, the Equinox’s interior is generally considered a pleasant and functional space, well-suited for daily commutes and errands.
Chevrolet Equinox Activ interior dashboard and infotainment screen
Chevrolet Equinox Activ interior front seats and dashboard
Chevrolet Equinox Activ interior rear seats
Chevrolet Equinox Activ interior door panel and seat controls
Chevrolet Equinox Activ interior front seats and center console
Under the hood, the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox features a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. While “powerhouse” might not be the first word that comes to mind, this engine is designed to provide adequate performance for everyday driving. It gets the Equinox up to speed without feeling particularly fast or exciting. However, for the typical crossover buyer, the engine’s output is likely to be acceptable, offering a balance of fuel efficiency and sufficient power for daily commutes and city driving. The engine noise is also reported to be manageable, further contributing to a comfortable driving experience.
Complementing the engine is an eight-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is a strong point in the Equinox’s driving experience. It operates smoothly and efficiently, shifting gears quickly and seamlessly without drawing attention to itself. It’s also responsive to driver input, downshifting promptly when more power is needed. This transmission helps to make the most of the engine’s 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque.
Chevrolet Equinox Activ engine bay
Chevrolet Equinox Activ gear shifter and center console
Chevrolet Equinox Activ steering wheel and gauge cluster
In terms of ride and handling, the Equinox Activ prioritizes comfort. The taller ride height and tires with thicker sidewalls contribute to a cushioned ride, effectively absorbing bumps and imperfections on the road. Many crossover buyers appreciate a higher seating position and good outward visibility, and the Equinox delivers on this front. However, the driving experience is not without its drawbacks. The throttle pedal is described as being overly sensitive, making smooth acceleration a bit challenging. The brake pedal is also noted to be soft, and the braking performance itself is not particularly strong. Steering feel is vague, lacking in feedback and precision. The soft suspension, while comfortable in a straight line, can lead to noticeable body roll in corners.
While the Equinox is designed for everyday practicality rather than sporty driving, it’s worth noting that some competitors offer a more engaging driving experience. Vehicles like the Hyundai Tucson and Honda CR-V are often cited as being more refined and enjoyable to drive. For those seeking genuine off-road capability in a similar size class, the Subaru Outback or Forester would be more capable choices than the Equinox Activ.
Chevrolet Equinox Activ interior front seats and center console
Chevrolet Equinox Activ front wheel and tire detail
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox Activ certainly has visual appeal. Its boxier, more upright design gives it a more substantial and slightly rugged appearance compared to some of its curvier competitors. The Activ trim, in particular, enhances this look with its unique wheels and tires. The availability of a green exterior color option is also a welcome touch, adding to its visual distinctiveness. Inside, the technology integration is a strong point, making the Equinox feel modern and well-equipped. The inclusion of features like heated front seats in the base model and available features like a heated steering wheel and wireless charging in higher trims add to its appeal as a comfortable and convenient commuter vehicle, and the all-terrain tires could provide added confidence in snowy conditions.
However, the Equinox is not without its shortcomings. The driving experience is a notable area for improvement. Furthermore, the seating position is described as somewhat awkward, potentially making it difficult for some drivers to find a comfortable position. The rear seats are also criticized for being flat and the seatbelt placement is noted as being less than ideal, potentially posing challenges for child seat installation and usability.
Chevrolet Equinox Activ rear three quarter view
Chevrolet Equinox Activ front three quarter view
Chevrolet Equinox Activ side profile view
Chevrolet Equinox Activ rear view
Chevrolet Equinox Activ front grille and headlight detail
Chevrolet Equinox Activ front badge detail
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox starts at a competitive price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The base model is well-equipped with features like 17-inch alloy wheels, a large 11.3-inch infotainment screen, and heated front seats, offering a good value proposition. All-wheel drive is available for a reasonable price increase. However, the Activ trim comes with a more significant price jump. While it adds features like a heated steering wheel, active noise cancellation, and wireless phone charging, it positions itself in a price range where it faces stiff competition from other “soft-roader” crossovers. For instance, the Subaru Outback Onyx Edition, known for its more capable all-wheel-drive system and slightly more refined driving experience, can be had for a similar price.
The Equinox Activ also competes with models like the Toyota RAV4 Woodland, Hyundai Tucson XRT, and Nissan Rogue Rock Creek, all of which offer similar levels of equipment and rugged-inspired styling in the same price bracket. To truly stand out in this competitive set, the Equinox Activ would need to offer a more compelling advantage, and based on driving dynamics alone, it might fall slightly short. However, the availability of the Safety and Technology Package, which adds features like a digital rearview mirror, surround-view camera, and rear pedestrian alert, can enhance the Equinox’s technology appeal.
Chevrolet Equinox Activ parked in a scenic location
Fuel economy for the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox Activ is rated by the EPA at 24 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined. These figures are in line with the fuel economy of many competitors in the compact crossover segment, including the Hyundai Tucson. However, the Subaru Outback achieves slightly better combined fuel economy, and the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid significantly outperforms the Equinox in fuel efficiency. The real-world fuel economy experienced in testing was reported to be close to the EPA estimates.
Chevrolet Equinox Activ EPA fuel economy sticker
In conclusion, the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox presents a compelling package in the competitive compact crossover segment. It boasts attractive styling, a well-built interior, user-friendly technology, and a generous list of features, especially for its price. For buyers prioritizing value, technology, and everyday practicality, the standard Equinox models are likely to be a strong contender. However, the Activ trim, while visually appealing with its rugged styling cues, doesn’t offer a significant performance or capability advantage to fully justify its price premium. Compared to other “soft-roading” crossovers and considering its driving dynamics, the Activ trim might not be the most compelling choice within the Equinox lineup. Unless the all-terrain tires and slightly different styling are a must-have, the standard Equinox offers a more well-rounded and value-oriented proposition for most crossover buyers.
Chevrolet Equinox Activ badge on the rear liftgate
| 2025 Chevrolet Equinox Specs | FWD | AWD |
|---|---|---|
| Base Price (Activ as tested) | $29,995 | $31,995 ($37,480) |
| Powertrain | 1.5-liter turbo-four | continuously variable automatic | front-wheel drive | 1.5-liter turbo-four | 8-speed automatic | all-wheel drive |
| Horsepower | 175 @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft @ 2,000-4,800 rpm | 203 lb-ft @ 2,000-4,000 rpm |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | |
| Cargo Volume | 29.8 cubic feet behind second row | 63.5 cubic feet behind first row | |
| Curb Weight | 3,428 pounds | 3,583 pounds |
| Towing Capacity | 800 pounds | 1,500 pounds |
| EPA Fuel Economy | 26 mpg city | 29 highway | 27 combined | 24 mpg city | 29 highway | 26 combined |
| Score | 7/10 |
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Quick Take
A practical, affordable crossover for practical, value-minded Americans. We’d stay away from this Activ trim, though.
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