2025 Chevrolet Equinox vs 2024 Lexus GX

The 2024 Lexus GX presented a bold departure from its predecessor, embracing a more geometric and aggressive design. The signature spindle grille was less pronounced, flanked by standard triple-beam LED headlights that contributed to a more vertical and assertive front fascia. The SUV's side profile was characterized by minimal character lines and a low window beltline, enhancing visibility for off-road adventures. The GX was offered in six trim levels, with the Premium+ expected to be the most popular. Luxury trims focused on opulence with features like 22-inch wheels and ambient lighting, while the Overtrail trims were tailored for off-roading with 18-inch wheels and durable Nuluxe leatherette upholstery. Inside, the GX combined luxury with utility, featuring a 14-inch touchscreen and physical controls for off-road functions, making it a premium SUV ready for rugged use.

In contrast, the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox underwent a modern redesign, aligning its aesthetics with larger Chevrolet models like the Traverse and Suburban. The Equinox featured distinct styling elements across its trims, with the base LT offering chrome or a Midnight Edition High Gloss Black treatment. The RS trim sported black mirrors and badges, while the new ACTIV trim emphasized adventure with all-terrain tires and a unique grille design. The interior of the Equinox was refreshed with a more open center console, a larger infotainment screen, and distinct trim-specific themes. The RS trim featured a sporty interior with red highlights, while the ACTIV trim offered a lighter "Maple Sugar and Black" theme. Overall, the Equinox's cabin felt like a deliberate choice rather than a compromise, providing a modern and customizable experience.

The 2024 Lexus GX transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine, delivering 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain provided impressive low-end torque, enhancing off-road capabilities. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX offered a stiffer chassis for improved stability both on and off-road. The 10-speed automatic transmission operated smoothly, and standard full-time four-wheel drive with a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential ensured robust off-road performance. The Overtrail trims added a locking rear differential and the Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) for enhanced wheel articulation. Despite its size, the GX demonstrated controlled on-road behavior, and its off-road prowess was evident, although not fully tested due to weather conditions.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox retained its 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 175 horsepower. Torque varied between 184 lb-ft for front-wheel-drive models and 203 lb-ft for all-wheel-drive versions. The Equinox introduced a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for FWD models and an eight-speed automatic for AWD models, the latter offering improved performance over the previous six-speed. The Equinox's acceleration was responsive at low speeds, though highway merging highlighted the engine's limitations. The AWD models could tow up to 1,500 pounds and featured selectable drive modes, including Off-Road mode for enhanced traction on loose surfaces.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior was a departure from its predecessor, featuring a minimalist design with essential physical controls. The first and second rows offered ample space for six-foot-tall adults, with 41.2 inches of legroom in the front and 36.7 inches in the second row. The third row, available in Premium and Luxury models, was tight for adults. The GX excelled in cargo space, offering 40.2 cubic feet with the third row folded and up to 90.5 cubic feet in Overtrail models.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox provided standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel in RS and ACTIV trims, with optional front seat ventilation. The flat roof ensured consistent headroom, with 38.2 inches in the front seats with the moonroof and 37.8 inches in the rear. The moonroof extended into the rear seats, adding light to the cabin. The Equinox's cargo space was slightly reduced, offering 29.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 63.5 cubic feet with them folded down, with a hidden storage compartment beneath the load floor.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a 14-inch touchscreen with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Lexus Interface infotainment system included Drive Connect and Remote Connect services, with initial three-year trial subscriptions. The GX offered a 10-speaker audio system, with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo available in higher trims. While the interface was user-friendly, subscription costs after the trial period were a consideration for long-term owners.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox came standard with Google Built-In, offering wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The native Google Maps integration allowed for seamless navigation and infotainment multitasking. The Equinox's infotainment system featured an 11.3-inch touchscreen, wi-fi hotspot capability, and a six-speaker audio system. Wireless charging was standard in RS and ACTIV trims, with no option for an upgraded sound system.

The 2024 Lexus GX received significant safety upgrades with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and road-sign recognition. While crash-test ratings were not yet available, the modern GA-F architecture and comprehensive ADAS features inspired confidence in its safety.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox offered a Safety & Technology package with additional features like rear pedestrian alert and HD surround vision. The Chevy Safety Assist suite included standard features such as rear park assist, lane-change alert, and enhanced automatic emergency braking. Teen Driver Technology allowed for parental control over speed and volume limitations, providing a report card of driving behavior.