2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV vs 2025 Ford Explorer

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV initially appeared similar to its internal combustion engine counterpart, sharing features like rounded wheel wells and a flat beltline. However, upon closer inspection, the EV version 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, adding a youthful and exuberant touch.

The 2025 Ford Explorer continued its sleek design with a refreshed front end, giving it a wider and more rugged appearance. The rear featured new LED taillights connected by a trim strip with the SUV’s name. Interior updates significantly improved the ambiance, making it competitive in its segment. Ford reduced the available trims from eight to four, including the new base trim Active, sporty ST-Line, luxurious Platinum, and performance-tuned ST. Prices ranged from $39,755 to $55,505, excluding the destination charge. During a driving event in Michigan, the ST-Line with RWD and additional packages was highlighted, priced at $50,340, including the destination charge.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV featured a hands-free start, which some found eerie but not uncommon. It offered one-pedal driving and various drive modes like Tour, Sport, Snow/Ice, and My Mode. The single-motor FWD variant delivered 213 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, while the AWD version boasted 288 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque. The EPA estimated a range of 319 miles for FWD models and 285 for AWD. The Equinox EV had an 85-kWh battery, supporting DC fast charging up to 150 kW, regaining about 77 miles in 10 minutes. A Level 2 charger added up to 34 miles per hour.

The 2025 Ford Explorer offered two EcoBoost engines: a 2.3-liter four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-liter V6 with 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque for the ST and optional on Platinum. All models had a 10-speed automatic transmission with RWD, and 4WD was optional. Driving modes included Eco, Normal, Sport, and more. The ST-Line averaged 23.8 mpg during testing. The Explorer’s turbo four provided quick acceleration, and the 10-speed automatic offered decisive shifts. The ST-Line’s performance was enhanced with larger wheels and performance brakes.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV, starting from the 2LT trim, included heated front seats, a steering wheel, and outside mirrors. The 3LT trim added power adjustments for the passenger seat, front-seat ventilation, and heated rear seats. The Equinox EV offered 39.15 inches of front headroom and 41.65 inches of front legroom. Cargo space was 26.4 cubic feet with seats up and 57.2 cubic feet with seats down. Roof rails were standard on all but the base trim.

The 2025 Ford Explorer seated six in its standard configuration, with an optional second-row bench seat increasing capacity to seven. The ST-Line featured a heated steering wheel, power-adjustable front seats, and a Premium Package with additional comforts. The second-row captain’s chairs were comfortable, while the third row was less so for adults. Cargo space measured 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 46 cubic feet behind the second row, and 85.8 cubic feet total.

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, offering Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store. An eight-year OnStar Remote Access Plan was included, essential for the MyChevrolet app, which provided navigation and route planning.

The 2025 Ford Explorer introduced the Ford Digital Experience with a 12.3-inch digital panel and a 13.2-inch touchscreen. It included Google Built-in, Amazon Alexa, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A 5G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot was available, and the B&O sound systems varied by trim. The system was user-friendly, with effective Google Maps and Google Assistant integration.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV came with Chevy Safety Assist, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and more. It also featured rear park assist, reverse automatic braking, and adaptive cruise control. Super Cruise was available from the 2LT trim.

The 2025 Ford Explorer included Ford CoPilot 360+ with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist. The ST-Line and higher trims offered BlueCruise, Ford’s hands-free highway driving system. The NHTSA rated it five stars for side-impact and four stars for rollover resistance.