2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

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 version 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 assertive, 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," which added a youthful flair. Two-tone paint jobs were also available, enhancing its visual appeal. Inside, the base model was limited to black, but higher trims offered additional color choices, including sporty options like Adrenaline Red.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 exuded a luxury SUV vibe with its lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels. Its sculptural sheet metal created a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, while the short front overhang and long hood contributed to an athletic appearance. Inside, the CX-90's interior was elegantly designed, featuring polished metallic trim and Nappa leather with contrast stitching. Despite some materials reflecting its competitive price, the cabin felt upscale. However, the ergonomics had room for improvement, with a confusing electronic shifter and a non-touchscreen infotainment system. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-90 maintained a sophisticated look and feel, standing out among midsize three-row crossover SUVs.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV featured a hands-free start, a common feature in modern EVs. It offered one-pedal driving across all trims, managed through a standalone regenerative braking setting or drive modes like Tour, Sport, Snow/Ice, and My Mode. The single-motor, front-wheel-drive variant delivered 213 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, while the all-wheel-drive version boasted a dual-motor powertrain with 288 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque. The Equinox EV could tow up to 1,500 pounds and offered impressive range estimates: 319 miles for FWD models and 285 for AWD. It featured an 85-kWh battery, capable of DC fast charging at up to 150 kW, regaining about 77 miles of range in 10 minutes.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's 3.3 Turbo model was powered by a turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engine, producing 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. The 3.3 Turbo S variant offered 319 hp and 369 lb-ft, with an option for 340 hp using premium gas. Power was delivered through an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel-drive system. The CX-90's maximum towing capacity was 5,000 pounds, and it featured driving modes like Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing. The i-Stop function aimed to improve fuel economy, with an EPA rating of 25 mpg combined. However, drivetrain refinement was lacking, with unpredictable power delivery and transmission behavior, especially when cold. Despite these issues, the CX-90 offered impressive ride and handling, with a firm suspension tuned for dynamic driving.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV's base model was not yet available, but higher trims offered features like heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated outside mirrors. The 2LT trim added an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and an optional panoramic moonroof. The 3LT trim included front-seat ventilation and heated rear seats, along with dual-zone climate control. The Equinox EV provided 39.15 inches of front headroom and 41.65 inches of front legroom, with a total cargo volume of 57.2 cubic feet with the second row folded down.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus trim featured Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. However, the three-zone climate control system was slow to cool the cabin. The panoramic sunroof provided ample natural light, and second-row passengers enjoyed comfortable seating. The third row was best suited for children, with limited space for adults. The CX-90 offered 14.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 74.2 cubic feet with the second row folded down. Storage space was limited, with a focus on style over practicality.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV's cockpit was dominated by technology, with a driver-oriented curved display. The base 1LT trim featured 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 2025 Mazda CX-90's dashboard featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The infotainment screen was touch-sensitive only when using wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, with the native Mazda Connect platform requiring a knob and buttons. The CX-90's voice recognition system was lacking, but a new Google Built-in infotainment system was expected in future models. The test vehicle included a 12-speaker Bose audio system and a head-up display.

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

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings in NHTSA crash tests. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added features like steering assist, emergency lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-90's driver aids were effective, though the speed reduction feature was irritating.