2025 Chevrolet Equinox vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless appeal, although the M Sport treatment was not universally appreciated, giving it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch “741M” wheels with staggered-width summer tires, which were considered a worthwhile upgrade despite the potential cost of tire replacement. The X5 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, a turbo-six PHEV powertrain, and a turbocharged V8 engine, with the high-performance variant boasting an even more powerful turbo V8. The xDrive50e M Sport specification test vehicle came with Brooklyn Grey paint, optional wheels, and all available equipment packages, priced at $88,075. The 2024 model introduced a BMW Curved Display and modernized interior features, while retaining high-quality materials and construction.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox underwent a significant redesign, aligning its modern look with larger Chevrolet models like the Traverse. The flat roof, upright grille, and “shark fin” C-pillar gave it a more robust appearance. Each trim had distinct styling elements, with the base Equinox LT offering chrome or a Midnight Edition High Gloss Black treatment. The RS trim featured sportier elements, while the new ACTIV trim emphasized adventure with all-terrain tires. The interior styling set the 2025 Equinox apart from its predecessors, with unique textures and a more open center console. The RS trim had a darker interior with red highlights, while the ACTIV trim featured a lighter “Maple Sugar and Black” theme. Overall, the Equinox successfully avoided a cheap feel, offering a premium cabin experience.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV featured new mild-hybrid engines and a significant upgrade to its electric range and power output. It boasted a more powerful electric motor integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission and a 19.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The battery's maximum AC charging rate doubled to 7.4 kW. The xDrive50e offered 38 miles of electric-only driving and 22 mpg in combined driving. It produced 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV was praised for its driving dynamics, with adaptive damping air suspension and excellent handling. It achieved an average fuel economy of 38.8 mpg during evaluation, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a balance of performance and efficiency.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox retained a single engine offering: a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 175 horsepower. Torque varied with powertrain, with FWD models offering 184 lb-ft and AWD models 203 lb-ft. The FWD models featured a CVT, while AWD versions had an eight-speed automatic transmission. The eight-speed was an improvement over the previous six-speed, offering smoother and quieter shifts. The Equinox provided a responsive accelerator at low speeds, though highway merging revealed the engine's limitations. The AWD-equipped Equinox could tow up to 1,500 pounds and featured selectable drive modes for different terrains. Overall, the Equinox offered a comfortable ride with adequate performance for everyday driving.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e excelled as a midsize luxury SUV, accommodating five people in two rows of seats. The cargo area offered 33.1 cubic feet, expanding to 71.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The split liftgate design provided a convenient seating area but required stretching to access deep cargo. The test vehicle featured BMW’s Sensafin artificial leather, which felt premium. The Climate Comfort Package added 20-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, four-zone automatic climate control, and other comfort features. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed supportive cushions and a panoramic sunroof. The X5 no longer offered an optional third-row seat, requiring a step up to the BMW X7 for that feature.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox offered heated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard on RS and ACTIV trims. A $950 package added front seat ventilation, heated rear seats, and driver’s seat memory. The Equinox featured Evotex seats, providing a premium feel. The flat roof ensured consistent headroom, with 38.2 inches in the front and 37.8 inches in the rear with the moonroof. The moonroof extended into the rear seats, adding light for passengers. The cabin design included a well-placed “dead pedal” for driver comfort. Cargo space measured 29.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 63.5 cubic feet with them folded. A hidden storage compartment added convenience, though cargo volume was smaller than some competitors.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured a BMW Curved Display, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel with a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It ran BMW Operating System 8.5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, connected services, and over-the-air updates. The system included a cloud-based navigation system and an Intelligent Personal Assistant. While pairing an iPhone was seamless, the voice recognition technology was less reliable, occasionally providing incorrect directions. The available head-up display effectively conveyed data, and an augmented video function enhanced navigation. However, the reduction in physical controls was less favorable due to the voice assistant's limitations.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox came standard with Google Built-In, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The native Google Maps integration projected onto the driver information display, allowing simultaneous infotainment activities. The voice control system had volume issues in the test vehicle, though this was not a universal problem. Most tech features were standard, including an 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wi-fi hotspot capability, and a six-speaker audio system. Wireless charging was standard on RS and ACTIV trims. The Equinox’s tech offerings provided a modern and functional experience, though an upgraded sound system was not available.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the Highway Assistant hands-free driving assistance system, requiring deliberate activation. It performed well in dense or light traffic but could behave unexpectedly in moderate traffic. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance worked effectively, though occasional errant braking occurred. The X5 received high ratings from the IIHS, though lower headlight ratings prevented an award. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall crash-test rating.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox offered a Safety & Technology package for $1,085, adding rear pedestrian alert, HD surround vision, traffic-sign recognition, and a camera rearview mirror. Most safety features were standard, including enhanced automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Teen Driver Technology allowed parents to set speed and volume limits and receive a driving report card. The Equinox provided comprehensive safety features, enhancing driver and passenger security.