2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV vs 2026 Lexus TX

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV was Chevrolet's smallest all-electric SUV, closely resembling the Blazer EV in size and design. It featured a rounded and graceful exterior, with gently flared fenders and a horizontal light stripe that added a futuristic touch. The interior shared similarities with the Blazer EV, boasting beveled dual screens for instrumentation and infotainment. While the outward visibility was generally good, the louvered dashboard top sometimes caused unsettling reflections. Material quality was typical for a compact SUV, with hard plastic surfaces and lightly padded touchpoints, making the Equinox EV an attractive yet unremarkable choice in its class.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a variety of trim levels and powertrains, including the TX 350, 500h hybrid, and 550h+ plug-in hybrid. The 550h+ featured a panoramic glass roof and Matador Red Mica paint, enhancing its visual appeal. The exterior retained a large grille and sharp bi-LED headlights, while the interior offered multiple color options and ambient lighting. Despite some basic plastic materials, the TX provided a spacious and comfortable cabin, with redesigned door handles that added a modern touch. However, the overall material quality fell short of luxury standards, making it less appealing to those seeking top-notch materials.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV came with a standard 220-horsepower electric motor and front-wheel drive, with an optional all-wheel-drive system that increased output to 300 hp. It featured an 85-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, offering an EPA-estimated range of up to 319 miles for the front-drive model and 307 miles for the AWD variant. The Equinox EV's charging capabilities included an 11.5 kW AC charger, with a 19.2-kW upgrade available, and a 150 kW DC fast charging option. The front-drive model reached 60 mph in 8.0 seconds, while the AWD variant achieved it in 6.0 seconds. The ride quality was smooth, with a quiet cabin, although some low-frequency noise was noticeable on the highway.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid generated 404 horsepower from its 3.5-liter V6 and hybrid system. It offered various drive modes, including Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom, allowing drivers to tailor their experience. The TX provided a quiet and smooth ride, with a capable AWD system that distributed power effectively. The suspension absorbed bumps and potholes with ease, making it an ideal choice for long road trips. The TX's braking system was firm and linear, ensuring a comfortable driving experience.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV's front seats provided comfort with adequate padding and support, while the rear seats were flatter and firmer. The cabin featured a heat pump for efficient climate control, although it took time to warm up in colder conditions. Storage options were adequate, with small trays and cupholders, and a cargo capacity of 26.4 cubic feet. However, the Equinox EV lacked a front trunk, which was a common feature in many EVs.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ offered standard luxury features, including multi-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and heated second-row seats. The third row was spacious, with a recline function and ample headroom. The front seats were roomy but lacked thigh support. The TX provided excellent cargo space, with 20.2 cubic feet available with all seats in place, expanding to 97 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The TX could tow up to 5,000 pounds, making it a versatile choice for families.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV featured a 17.7-inch touchscreen with sharp graphics and quick responses. It was powered by Google Built-in, offering map, traffic, and productivity features. However, the lack of Apple CarPlay integration was a significant drawback, as it limited the user experience. The six-speaker audio system was adequate but lacked power and clarity, with no premium audio upgrade available.

The 2026 Lexus TX's tech offerings were a mixed bag. The 14-inch touchscreen was user-friendly, but some features lacked polish. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, but connectivity issues occasionally arose. The TX required a subscription for in-dash navigation and other features, which could be inconvenient for some users. The backup camera and Advanced Park system were highlights, providing clear visuals and automated parking assistance. The TX also offered ample charging options, with seven USB ports and wireless charging.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, excelling in frontal, side, and rollover protection. It came with advanced safety features, including frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and a blind-spot monitor. The optional Active Safety Packages added a surround-view camera system, semi-automated parking, and Super Cruise hands-free highway driving.

The 2026 Lexus TX included Safety System+ 3.0 as standard, featuring forward collision warning, lane centering, and traffic sign recognition. The adaptive cruise control worked well, although the steering wheel controls were confusing. The TX 350 and 500h received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, while the IIHS gave the TX an "Acceptable" rating for the small overlap front crash test on the driver's side and a "Good" rating for the passenger's side.