2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV vs 2025 BMW X3

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 hexagonal shapes and a light bar echoing the front. Standard 19-inch aluminum wheels were available on the 1LT and 2LT trims, while the higher trims boasted 21-inch versions. The Equinox EV offered vibrant color options like "Red Hot" and "Riptide Blue Metallic," which added a youthful and exuberant touch. Two-tone paint jobs were available, with options for a white or black roof depending on the trim. The interior color choices expanded with higher trims, offering combinations like black with blue accents or Sky Cool Gray, and sportier options like Adrenaline Red.

The 2025 BMW X3 presented a seductive appearance for a two-box SUV, with a long and tall hood, captivating dashboard-to-axle ratio, and a tapering greenhouse and roofline that contributed to its athletic look. The test model's Arctic Race Blue paint, with its chilly silver undertones, complemented the machined surface wheel finish and gloss black M Sport details. Inside, the X3 featured Calm Beige upholstery with Veganza artificial leather that mimicked the real thing. The cabin was simple yet functional, with nifty plastic trim elements that glowed with ambient lighting. However, some interior materials revealed the X3's price point, particularly the plastic used in lower cabin areas. The X3 was available in 30 xDrive and M50 xDrive model series, with prices ranging from $51,125 to $65,875, making it a competitive option against rivals like the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV offered a hands-free start feature, which, while not universally favored, was becoming more common in EVs. The vehicle allowed for one-pedal driving, managed through a regenerative braking setting or drive modes like Tour, Sport, Snow/Ice, and My Mode. The Equinox EV provided a comfortable ride, with the test car's 19-inch wheels contributing to its stability. The single-motor, front-wheel-drive (FWD) variant delivered 213 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, while the all-wheel-drive (AWD) version boasted a dual-motor powertrain with 288 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque. The vehicle could tow up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped. The EPA estimated a range of 319 miles for FWD models and 285 for AWD, with an 85-kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery contributing to these impressive figures. The Equinox EV supported DC fast charging at up to 150 kW, regaining about 77 miles of range in 10 minutes, and Level 2 charging at 11.5 kW, adding up to 34 miles of range per hour.

The 2025 BMW X3 30 xDrive featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Despite its 4,176-pound weight, the X3 achieved a zero-to-60 mph time of six seconds, thanks to its eight-speed automatic transmission and standard xDrive AWD system. The engine's power curve provided peak torque from 1,600 rpm to near redline at 6,500 rpm. The X3 30 xDrive also included a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, enhancing off-the-line responsiveness and making the engine's automatic start-stop system nearly imperceptible. The M50 xDrive variant offered a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 393 hp and 428 lb-ft of torque, reaching 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The test vehicle's M Sport package included a sport-tuned suspension and 21-inch wheels, providing a dynamic driving experience but sacrificing ride comfort on imperfect roads. The X3 delivered impressive fuel economy, though the test vehicle achieved 24.2 mpg, slightly below the EPA rating of 29 mpg in combined driving.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV, starting from the 2LT trim, included heated front seats, a steering wheel, and outside mirrors as standard features. The 2LT trim also offered an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and an optional panoramic moonroof. The 3LT trim added power adjustment for the passenger seat, front-seat ventilation, and heated rear seats, features typically associated with luxury brands. Dual-zone climate control was limited to the 3LT and above. 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 and 57.2 cubic feet with the second row folded down. Roof rails were standard on all but the base trim.

The 2025 BMW X3 offered a power-adjustable driver's seat with a view of the hood, providing a sports car-like feel. The cabin felt spacious, with a simple dashboard featuring the BMW Curved Display, housing a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The front seats included power adjustment, heating, and Veganza artificial leather, with optional ventilation. The rear seats were less comfortable, positioned low, and had hard front seat-back panels. The cargo area measured 31.5 cubic feet, with a lightweight cargo cover, netted storage, and a temporary spare tire under the load floor. The 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat allowed for versatile cargo and passenger arrangements.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV featured a driver-oriented cockpit with a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, the largest in its segment, and an 11-inch driver-information screen. Google Built-In was standard, providing Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store, but lacking standalone Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An eight-year OnStar Remote Access Plan subscription was included, essential for the MyChevrolet app, which offered navigation, route planning, and battery pre-conditioning.

The 2025 BMW X3 introduced the Operating System 9 (iDrive 9) software, an evolution of iDrive 8.5, with a Quick Select user experience. Owners could create profiles using the MyBMW app, though attempts to access BMW Digital Services were unsuccessful during testing. The system occasionally froze or forgot media preferences, leading to reliance on wireless Apple CarPlay, which worked flawlessly. The navigation system, with optional augmented video, provided accurate directions and arrival estimates. Despite frustrations with the infotainment system, the issues might have been unique to the test vehicle or user error.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV came standard 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. GM’s Teen Driver Technology allowed parents to set speed alerts and volume limits, and provided a report card of the drive. Super Cruise, a hands-free highway-driving assist system, was available starting with the 2LT trim.

The 2025 BMW X3's driver assistance features were more rewarding than its infotainment system. The standard Active Driving Assistant suite included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and active blind-spot monitoring. The Premium Package added adaptive cruise control and Steering Assistant technology. The Parking Assistant Professional Package offered semi-automated parking tech, and the Driving Assistant Professional Package included hands-free Traffic Jam Assistant and Lane Change Assistant. The X3 earned a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four-star ratings for the driver and front passenger in the frontal-impact crash test.