2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV vs 2025 Mazda CX-5

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 showcased more decisive lines, a thicker body-colored C-pillar, and a sleeker grille. The front fascia was predominantly 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 select trims, adding a youthful and exuberant touch.

In contrast, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 was praised for its attractive design, characterized by graceful curves that set it apart without relying on gimmicks. Despite not being redesigned since 2017, its styling remained impressive, resembling an entry-level luxury SUV. The interior featured high-quality materials and a layout that balanced traditional analog elements with modern trends. While it lacked a large infotainment touchscreen, the physical buttons and knobs enhanced usability. The CX-5's design and refinement were notable, though it offered less practicality and space compared to some rivals.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV featured a hands-free start and offered a driving experience that felt familiar to traditional car owners. It supported one-pedal driving and included 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 Equinox EV had an impressive range, with the FWD model achieving 319 miles and the AWD 285 miles. It supported DC fast charging up to 150 kW, regaining about 77 miles of range in 10 minutes.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 187 horsepower and a turbocharged version with 256 horsepower. Both engines paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The base engine accelerated to 60 mph in about 8 seconds, while the turbo model was quicker. The CX-5 excelled in handling, providing a sporty driving experience with minimal body roll. Its ride quality was slightly firm, but the cabin remained quiet, filtering out wind and road noise effectively.

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, 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 Mazda CX-5 provided adequate headroom in the back seats but lagged behind competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Kia Sportage in space. It offered 30.8 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 58.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The CX-5 featured moderately sized cupholders and door pockets, with a wireless charging pad available on midlevel trims. A power liftgate was standard on most trims.

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 subscription was included, supporting navigation and route planning via the MyChevrolet app.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment display controlled via a center console dial. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, with wireless integration on higher trims. The CX-5 featured analog gauges, but a head-up display was standard on Premium Plus trims. The top Signature model included a 10-speaker Bose audio system, with remote vehicle monitoring available through a smartphone app.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV included Chevy Safety Assist, featuring automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and more. It also offered rear park assist, reverse automatic braking, and adaptive cruise control. Super Cruise was available from the 2LT trim, providing hands-free highway driving assistance.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 earned high safety ratings, with five stars from NHTSA and a "Good" rating from IIHS. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera, and traffic jam assist.