2025 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV

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 hexagonal shapes 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.

In contrast, the 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid, particularly the RX 500h Black Line Special Edition, was priced at $75,000 and featured an exclusive Incognito paint job with orange brake calipers. Despite these unique touches, the RX maintained a somewhat unremarkable appearance, with a large front grille and dramatic rear haunches. The RX lineup included three models: the RX 350h, RX 500h, and RX 450h+, each offering different power and efficiency levels. The RX 500h stood out with its turbocharged engine and sport-tuned features, but overall, the RX's design was more about functionality than flair.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV offered a hands-free start feature, which some found eerie but not uncommon. It provided a "normal" driving experience with options for one-pedal driving and various drive modes like Tour, Sport, and Snow/Ice. The single-motor FWD variant delivered 213 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, while the AWD version offered 288 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque. The Equinox EV boasted an impressive range of 319 miles for FWD models and 285 miles for AWD, supported by an 85-kWh battery. It also featured DC fast charging capabilities, regaining about 77 miles of range in 10 minutes.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid's RX 350h model was the least powerful but most efficient, with 246 hp and a hybrid powertrain. The RX 450h+ PHEV offered 304 hp and a 6.2-second zero-to-60 time. The RX 500h, with a turbocharged engine, delivered 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, providing better acceleration but lower fuel economy. The RX 500h featured a sport-tuned suspension and advanced AWD system, but its fuel efficiency was lower than expected. The RX 500h excelled in straight-line acceleration but lacked dynamic communication between the driver and the road.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV, starting from the 2LT trim, included heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and optional panoramic moonroof. The 3LT trim added front-seat ventilation and heated rear seats. The Equinox EV offered 39.15 inches of front headroom and 41.65 inches of front legroom, with a cargo space of 26.4 cubic feet, expandable to 57.2 cubic feet. Roof rails were standard on all but the base trim.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid focused on comfort and practicality. The RX 500h F Sport Performance model featured snug heated and ventilated front seats, though the bottom cushions were less comfortable over time. The RX offered ample rear seat space and practical interior storage. The cargo area provided 29.6 cubic feet of space, expandable to 46.2 cubic feet, with convenient features like a hands-free power liftgate and foldable second-row seats.

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 and Assistant. An eight-year OnStar Remote Access Plan was included, providing navigation and route planning through the MyChevrolet app.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offered a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14-inch touchscreen display. The Lexus Interface infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a three-year Drive Connect plan. However, the steering wheel controls were distracting and challenging to use. The RX also featured a 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, though some tech glitches were noted during testing.

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

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid included Safety Connect with a ten-year free subscription, offering collision notification and emergency assistance. Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 provided advanced driver assistance systems like forward collision warning and adaptive cruise control. The RX earned a five-star safety rating from NHTSA but received a Poor rating from IIHS in certain tests.