2024 Toyota RAV4 vs 2025 Chevrolet Equinox

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 was designed to project a rugged and aggressive demeanor, with its frowning front and angular gray body cladding. Despite its tough exterior, the performance did not quite match the visual promise, as indicated by the dual exhaust outlets that hinted at non-existent power. The TRD Off-Road model, priced at $41,925 with options, featured Army Green paint, a digital rearview mirror, and advanced technology packages. While the RAV4's interior was utilitarian, with easy-clean surfaces and practical storage solutions, higher trims offered more luxurious touches. The gas-engine lineup ranged from $28,675 to $38,295, with hybrids offering better power and fuel efficiency for a slightly higher price.

In contrast, the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox underwent a significant redesign, adopting a modern look reminiscent of larger Chevrolet models. Each trim had distinct styling elements, with the base LT offering chrome or a Midnight Edition package, while the RS and ACTIV trims featured sportier and adventure-oriented designs, respectively. The interior of the Equinox was updated with a more open layout, thanks to the repositioned shifter and removal of the cowl. The RS trim boasted a sporty interior with red highlights, while the ACTIV trim offered a lighter, two-tone theme. The Equinox's cabin felt premium, with thoughtful design choices that avoided a cheap feel.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission powered the front wheels, with an optional torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system available. The TRD Off-Road model came standard with AWD, off-road suspension tuning, and all-terrain tires. Despite its off-road capabilities, the RAV4's ground clearance and approach angles were not significantly improved. The SUV's ride was comfortable, but it was noisy at freeway speeds. The RAV4's fuel economy was rated at 28 mpg combined, with the test vehicle averaging 26.6 mpg.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox featured a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 175 horsepower. Torque varied between 184 lb-ft for FWD models and 203 lb-ft for AWD versions. The Equinox's FWD models used a CVT, while AWD models had an eight-speed automatic transmission. The eight-speed was an improvement over the previous six-speed, offering smoother and quieter shifts. The Equinox's ride was generally quiet and comfortable, though the engine struggled during highway merges. The AWD Equinox could tow up to 1,500 pounds, and selectable drive modes were available for different driving conditions.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4's interior focused on practicality, with numerous storage options and oversized control knobs. The TRD Off-Road trim featured SofTex upholstery and optional heated and ventilated front seats. The driver's seat was comfortable, and visibility was excellent. The RAV4 could accommodate four adults comfortably, with a rear seat that offered good legroom. The cargo area provided 37.6 cubic feet of space, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox offered heated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard on RS and ACTIV trims. The Evotex seats felt premium, and the flat roof provided consistent headroom throughout the cabin. The moonroof added light to the rear seats, and the flat floor made the back row more comfortable for three passengers. The Equinox's 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 extra utility.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured the Toyota Audio Multimedia system with an 8-inch or 10.5-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and various connected services. Service Connect and Safety Connect were free for ten years, while Remote Connect and Drive Connect were complimentary for one year. The infotainment system was sophisticated but had some usability issues, such as the lack of a multi-panel Home screen and difficulty exiting Apple CarPlay. The digital voice assistant performed well, but the standard speakers were average.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox came with Google Built-In, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The native Google Maps integration allowed for flexible infotainment use, with navigation projected onto the driver information display. The voice control system had volume issues, but most tech features were standard, including an 11.3-inch touchscreen, wi-fi hotspot capability, and wireless charging. An upgraded sound system was not available.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 included Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. However, the base LE trim lacked blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. The TSS 2.5 system was adequate but had some limitations, such as excessive braking in adaptive cruise control. The RAV4 lost its Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS due to lower ratings in recent crash tests.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox offered a Safety & Technology package with additional features like rear pedestrian alert and HD surround vision. Most safety features were standard, including enhanced automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. Teen Driver Technology was also included, allowing parents to set speed and volume limits and receive a driving report card.