2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV vs 2024 Toyota RAV4

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV initially appeared similar to its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterpart, sharing features like rounded wheel wells and a flat beltline. However, upon closer inspection, the EV model showcased more decisive lines, a thicker body-colored C-pillar, and a sleeker grille. The front fascia was more body-colored, and the rear design was more defined, featuring hexagons and a light bar echoing the front. Standard 19-inch aluminum wheels were available on the 1LT and 2LT trims, while higher trims boasted 21-inch versions. The Equinox EV offered vibrant color options like "Red Hot" and "Riptide Blue Metallic," with two-tone paint jobs available on certain trims. Interior color choices expanded with higher trims, offering options like Adrenaline Red and black with red accents, adding a youthful and exuberant touch to the vehicle.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 aimed for a rugged appearance, with aggressive angularity and dual exhaust outlets hinting at non-existent performance. The TRD Off-Road model, priced at $38,295 plus destination charges, featured Army Green color, digital rearview mirror, and optional packages, bringing the MSRP to $41,925. The RAV4's interior focused on utility, with storage shelves, trays, and rubberized control knobs. The TRD Off-Road trim included SofTex artificial leather upholstery and an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat. The RAV4 accommodated four adults comfortably, with a spacious cargo area of 37.6 cubic feet, expandable to 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV featured a hands-free start, allowing drivers to simply get in and go. It offered one-pedal driving and various drive modes, including Tour, Sport, Snow/Ice, and My Mode. The single-motor, front-wheel-drive variant produced 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 had a towing capacity of up to 1,500 pounds. The EPA estimated a range of 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, regaining about 77 miles of range in 10 minutes.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The TRD Off-Road model featured AWD, off-road suspension tuning, and all-terrain tires. It offered Multi-Terrain Select with Normal, Snow, Mud & Sand, and Rock & Dirt driving modes. Despite its off-road capabilities, the TRD Off-Road model had the same ground clearance as other RAV4 models. The RAV4's engine was powerful for its class but sounded loud and unrefined. The TRD Off-Road model achieved an EPA fuel economy rating of 28 mpg in combined driving, averaging 26.6 mpg during testing.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV offered heated front seats, steering wheel, and outside mirrors starting from the 2LT trim. The 3LT trim added power-adjustable passenger seats, front-seat ventilation, and heated rear seats. The Equinox EV provided 39.15 inches of front headroom and 38.49 inches in the second row, with 41.65 inches of front legroom. The cargo space measured 26.4 cubic feet with all seats in place, expanding to 57.2 cubic feet with the second row folded. Roof rails were standard on all but the base trim.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 focused on practicality, with storage shelves, trays, and rubberized control knobs. The TRD Off-Road trim featured SofTex artificial leather upholstery and an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat. The RAV4 accommodated four adults comfortably, with a rear seat offering good legroom and footroom. The cargo area measured 37.6 cubic feet, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV featured a driver-oriented cockpit with a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen and an 11-inch driver-information screen. Google Built-In was standard, providing 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.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured the Toyota Audio Multimedia system with an 8-inch or 10.5-inch touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Service Connect and Safety Connect were included for ten years, while Remote Connect and Drive Connect were complimentary for one year. The RAV4 could transform into an internet hotspot with Wi-Fi Connect, offering a free three-month data plan. The infotainment system had some usability issues, such as the lack of a multi-panel Home screen and difficulty exiting Apple CarPlay.

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

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 (TSS 2.5), offering advanced driver-assistance systems. However, the base LE trim lacked a blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert. TSS 2.5 performed adequately, with some issues in lane-centering assist and adaptive cruise control. The RAV4 lost its Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS due to Marginal and Acceptable ratings in recent crash tests.