2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV vs 2023 Volvo XC60

The 2023 Volvo XC60 presented a sophisticated and stylish appearance, with a choice of three powertrains, including the B5 and B6 models featuring turbocharged engines with mild-hybrid technology and standard all-wheel drive. The XC60 Recharge, a plug-in hybrid, combined a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with an electric motor, offering an estimated 35 miles of electric driving. The XC60's design, both exterior and interior, exuded classic Scandinavian minimalism and elegance, with features like a panoramic sunroof and Orrefors crystal gear selector knob enhancing its luxurious feel. The test vehicle, in Recharge spec with the Ultimate package, showcased a Thunder Grey paint and a Dark exterior theme, making it a visually appealing choice.

In contrast, the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV maintained a familiar silhouette to its internal combustion engine counterpart but introduced more decisive lines and a sleeker grille. The EV version featured distinctive LED light bars and a more body-colored front fascia. The Equinox EV offered vibrant color options like "Red Hot" and "Riptide Blue Metallic," with two-tone paint jobs available for certain trims. Inside, the Equinox EV provided a range of interior color choices, with sporty options like Adrenaline Red for the 2RS and 3RS trims. The Galaxy Gray Metallic exterior, paired with blue interior accents, added a sophisticated touch to the vehicle's youthful and exuberant character.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 Recharge delivered impressive performance with its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and rear electric motor, producing a combined 455 horsepower and 423 pound-feet of torque. It offered a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The XC60 Recharge featured multiple driving modes, including Hybrid, Power, Pure, Off-road, and Constant AWD, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle's behavior to their preferences. In Pure mode, the XC60 achieved an electric-only range of 38.3 miles during testing, while Hybrid mode provided a balance of performance and efficiency. The XC60's Power mode enhanced responsiveness and handling, making it a fun-to-drive SUV. The vehicle averaged 54.6 mpg over a 65-mile evaluation route, showcasing its fuel efficiency when driven in Pure mode.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV offered a hands-free start feature and one-pedal driving capability, enhancing its user-friendly experience. The single-motor, front-wheel-drive variant delivered 213 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, while the all-wheel-drive version boasted 288 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque. The Equinox EV's EPA-estimated range was 319 miles for FWD models and 285 miles for AWD, thanks to its 85-kWh battery. The vehicle supported DC fast charging at up to 150 kW, allowing for quick recharging. The Equinox EV's ride was comfortable and stable, with drive modes like Tour, Sport, Snow/Ice, and My Mode providing versatility for different driving conditions.

The 2023 Volvo XC60, a compact crossover SUV, excelled in providing comfort for four passengers, with the option to accommodate five when needed. The front seats, wrapped in Nappa leather, offered heating, ventilation, and power cushion extensions for improved thigh support. The rear seats were also comfortable, though legroom was limited for taller passengers. The XC60 featured a power liftgate, revealing 25.8 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 63.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Practical storage solutions included wide door panel bins and a ski pass-through panel for added convenience.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV, starting at the 2LT trim level, offered heated front seats, a steering wheel, and outside mirrors as standard features. The 3LT trim added front-seat ventilation and heated rear seats, enhancing comfort. The Equinox EV provided ample headroom and legroom, with 39.15 inches of front headroom and 41.65 inches of front legroom. The AutoSense power liftgate opened to 26.4 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 57.2 cubic feet with the second row folded. Roof rails were standard on all but the base trim, offering additional storage options.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 9-inch Google Built-in infotainment system, offering access to Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play. The system supported both Android and Apple CarPlay, with a user-friendly interface and voice-recognition capabilities. The optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system provided exceptional audio quality, though the standard Harman Kardon system was also impressive.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV boasted a driver-oriented cockpit with a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen and an 11-inch driver-information screen. Google Built-In was standard, providing access to Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store. An eight-year OnStar Remote Access Plan subscription was included, offering navigation, route planning, and battery pre-conditioning through the MyChevrolet app.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 was synonymous with safety, featuring Pilot Assist, an advanced driver-assistance system combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centering capability. Oncoming Lane Mitigation helped avoid collisions with oncoming vehicles. While the XC60 Recharge had not been assessed by the NHTSA, the B5 and B6 models received top safety ratings from the IIHS.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV came equipped with Chevy Safety Assist, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and forward collision alert. Additional features included rear park assist, reverse automatic braking, and adaptive cruise control. Super Cruise, a hands-free highway-driving assist system, was available starting with the 2LT trim.