2025 Chevrolet Equinox vs 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 presented itself as a more rugged alternative to the CX-5, with dimensions that were notably larger and a design that emphasized its broad-shouldered proportions. It featured square wheel arches and faux air vents, giving it a fresh look compared to the older CX-5. Available in eight trim levels, the CX-50 offered a variety of styling options, though differences between trims were subtle. The 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition, in particular, enhanced its adventurous image with all-terrain tires and distinctive exterior elements. Inside, the CX-50 boasted a pleasing design with high-quality materials, though it fell short of Mazda's upscale aspirations, with some features like manually-adjustable seats reminding buyers of its mainstream roots.

In contrast, the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox underwent a significant redesign, aligning its modern look with larger Chevrolet models like the Traverse and Suburban. Each trim level had distinct styling elements, with options like the Midnight Edition and RS trim offering unique features such as black mirrors and badges. The new ACTIV trim emphasized adventure with all-terrain tires and a rugged design. Inside, the Equinox's cabin was updated with thoughtful design choices, such as a larger infotainment screen and a more open center console. The RS and ACTIV trims featured distinct interior themes, with the RS offering sporty red highlights and the ACTIV providing a lighter, two-tone design. Overall, the Equinox's interior felt like a deliberate choice rather than a compromise, offering a modern and comfortable experience.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, with turbocharging available on higher trims. The base engine delivered 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, while the turbocharged version offered up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft on premium fuel. All models came with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, along with driving modes like Normal, Sport, and Off-road. Turbo models also included a Towing mode, increasing towing capacity to 3,500 pounds. Despite sharing powertrains with the CX-5, the CX-50 offered a different driving experience, focusing more on daily driving comfort than sporty dynamics. The Meridian Edition's all-terrain tires added noise and reduced grip, making it less ideal for on-road handling.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox featured a single engine option: a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 175 horsepower. Torque varied with the drivetrain, offering 184 lb-ft in front-wheel-drive models and 203 lb-ft in all-wheel-drive versions. The Equinox introduced a new transmission setup, with FWD models using a CVT and AWD models equipped with an eight-speed automatic. The eight-speed transmission improved acceleration and reduced noise compared to the previous six-speed. The Equinox's ride was generally quiet and comfortable, though the small engine struggled during highway merges. With AWD, the Equinox could tow up to 1,500 pounds and offered selectable drive modes for different driving conditions.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 offered similar passenger space to the CX-5, with slightly less headroom but more legroom. It provided 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 56.3 cubic feet with them folded, trailing behind most competitors in cargo capacity. The available power liftgate improved cargo access, but the cargo area wasn't ideal for bulky items. The interior layout was sensible, with adequate storage space and a substantial shifter and rotary infotainment controller on the center console.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox featured standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel on RS and ACTIV trims, with optional front seat ventilation and heated rear seats. The flat roof provided consistent headroom, with 38.2 inches in the front and 37.8 inches in the rear with the moonroof. The moonroof extended into the rear seats, adding light for passengers. The Equinox's cabin included a well-placed "dead pedal" for driver comfort. Cargo space was slightly reduced, with 29.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 63.5 cubic feet with them folded. A hidden storage compartment added functionality, though overall cargo volume was small for the class.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen controlled by a rotary dial and buttons, rather than a touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay was standard, but Android Auto required a cable. Higher trims offered wireless charging, SiriusXM, and a Bose audio system. The interface required adjustment but provided physical feedback, making it easier to use without distraction. The system's graphics were basic, appealing to those who preferred simplicity over excessive tech.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox featured Google Built-In as standard, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The native Google Maps integration allowed for flexible infotainment use, projecting onto the driver information display. However, voice control volume was an issue in some models. Most tech features were standard, including an 11.3-inch touchscreen, wi-fi hotspot, and wireless charging on RS and ACTIV trims. An upgraded sound system was not available.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. However, it received a low score for nighttime pedestrian detection and average standard headlights. NHTSA ratings were incomplete, but it received five stars for frontal crashes and four stars for rollovers. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, with optional rear automatic braking and a 360-degree camera.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox offered a Safety & Technology package with rear pedestrian alert and other features for $1,085. Most safety features were standard, including enhanced automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. Teen Driver Technology allowed parents to set speed and volume limits and provided a report card on driving behavior.