Chevrolet Debuts Next-Gen Equinox for ‘25 Model Year

During the last couple years, Chevrolet has been on a hot streak updating or completely renewing all of their utility vehicles, as well as introducing some all-electric counterparts. And as of today, that includes their compact Equinox, now entering a fourth-generation for 2025.

This new generation brings fresh looks and additional tech; and while the Equinox EV did arrive for ‘24, the internal-combustion Equinox is still going strong. That means some new styling to keep things in line with the rest of the Bowtie’s SUV lineup, as well as additional tech to keep pace with market trends.

Also keeping pace with market trends is a new ACTIV trim, sporting an off-road look for those outdoors-minded utility buyers. But we’ll touch on that in a minute; first, let’s check out the fundamental changes to this time-tested nameplate, starting with powertrain enhancements.

To be blunt, the 2025 Equinox mostly stays the course. Under the hood remains the 1.5-liter turbo-four, producing 175 horsepower and up to 203 lb-ft of torque on all-wheel drive models (and 184 lb-ft on front-wheel drive models). The big change here is the transmission, with all-wheel drive models channeling power through an eight-speed automatic, whereas front-wheel units receive a CVT. Front-wheel drive RS and ACTIV models can select between Normal and Snow drive modes via a console-mounted rotator; all-wheel drive models gain an Off-Road mode.

The exterior changes are self-evident, though all three trims– the LT, RS and ACTIV– do receive different front fascias, among other elements. Regardless, all models are now 2.3-inches wider than the outgoing generation, though wheelbase and overall length are both essentially untouched, now at 107.5- and 183.2-inches respectively. That wider stance is accompanied by squared-off fender flares, adding more definition; and the expanded LED lighting elements further define its modern vibes.

If you do go with the ACTIV model, you can expect a little more ruggedness or, at least, what the current car climate will describe as rugged. Admittedly, the chunkier-looking 17-inch wheels wrapped by all-terrain tires do play nicely into that outdoorsy persona. The unique front fascia and vertical grille inserts help too, joined by blacked-out accents and badging; and perhaps paying homage to off-roaders of old is an available white roof option. Inside the ACTIV is a special “Maple Sugar” and black theme with available heated and ventilated front seats and heated outboard rear seats.

All 2025 Equinox interiors are defined by their new, standard tech. Information is relayed to the driver through an 11-inch digital instrument panel, and infotainment is delivered through a driver-centric 11.3-inch touchscreen with built-in Google services. A few changes have been made to the design, including a pulled back dashboard to provide more space upfront. A new shifter has been mounted to the steering column to free up space on the center console, too. Checking out the second row, a 60/40 bench allows up to 63.5 cubic-feet of storage; again, basically the same as the outgoing model.

And that’s really the best way to summarize the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox. Don’t get us wrong, the changes made to the formula are certainly welcomed, as the new styling looks great and the new tech is very much appreciated. But the overall flavor is very much the same: a sporty, practical compact ute with a straightforward attitude. The only thing we’re really waiting for are the prices, which we hope don’t stray too far from the 2024 Equinox’s sub-$30K starting price, maxing out under $35K. Models are expected to arrive at dealerships by the end of the year.

We’ll have more news on the 2025 Equinox soon, including our first drive impressions, so stay tuned!