Chevrolet Equinox EV: A Compact Revolution for 2024
DETROIT – As the automotive world evolves towards electrification, Chevrolet steps up its game with its latest entrant, the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV. Despite the buzz around the electrified Silverado, it’s evident that the star of Chevy’s lineup might just be this compact crossover.
An Electric Vehicle for the Masses
Chevrolet’s Equinox EV is a sleek, affordable compact crossover designed to fit seamlessly into the lives of many. While the Silverado EV caters to specific market needs, the Equinox EV aims to become a staple in households everywhere, filling the gap left by the Chevy Bolt. According to Brad Franz, Chevrolet’s Director of Marketing for Cars and Crossovers, "We really believe this is the car that cracks the code," emphasizing that long-range electric vehicles don’t need to break the bank.
Scott Bell, Chevrolet’s Vice President, echoed this sentiment, stating, "We’d be foolish not to be in this business." It’s clear that Chevrolet has high hopes for this model.
Performance and Variants
The Equinox EV is available in two main configurations. The front-wheel-drive, single-motor version boasts 213 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque, offering an impressive 319-mile range. Meanwhile, the all-wheel-drive dual-motor variant delivers 288 horsepower and 333 pound-feet of torque, with a slightly reduced range of 285 miles. The performance differences between the two are modest, but the price premium for AWD is a reasonable $3,300.
The lineup is diversified into two trims: the LT and the sportier RS. Both trims come with multiple levels of equipment, catering to a variety of needs and preferences.
Charging and Practicality
The Equinox EV showcases significant improvements in charging capabilities compared to its predecessors. DC fast charging at up to 150 kilowatts can recover up to 77 miles of range within 10 minutes, a huge leap from the older Bolt. Level 2 home charging at 11.5kW can deliver up to 36 miles of range per hour. Additionally, the Equinox offers bidirectional charging capabilities, although an additional accessory is required for this feature.
Bridging the Gap
Positioned as the de facto successor to the Bolt EV, the Equinox EV aims to attract Bolt’s educated and affluent customer base while reaching out to new demographics. Competing with models like the VW ID.4, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, and Tesla Model Y, as well as the cheaper Kia Niro EV and Hyundai Kona Electric, the Equinox EV enters a highly competitive market. Chevrolet is betting on a combination of style, range, and affordability to capture a significant market share.
Driving Impressions
Our test drive began with a striking red 3RS front-wheel-drive model equipped with black wheels. The vehicle handled the narrow streets of downtown Detroit with ease. The FWD model provided ample power for city driving, with its torque delivering immediate response. However, merging onto Interstate 696 highlighted a desire for a bit more power, despite the Equinox EV not being sluggish by any means.
Chevrolet has also integrated their highly-regarded Super Cruise hands-free highway driver-assistance technology into this model. The system continues to improve with each iteration, adding to the vehicle’s appeal.
One standout feature is the one-pedal driving mode, which utilizes regenerative braking when the accelerator is lifted. Navigating through the affluent Grosse Pointe suburbs, we hardly needed to touch the brake pedal, showcasing the system’s utility.
Handling and Interior
The Equinox EV feels more like a hatchback than a crossover, with light steering and a smooth suspension. Its Ultium battery provides a low center of gravity, enhancing the vehicle’s sporty feel. Despite its compact size, the Equinox EV offers 26.4 cubic feet of cargo space, slightly more than the Blazer EV and adequate rear legroom, distinguishing it as a family-friendly option.
The cabin of the 3RS trim is both stylish and luxurious, featuring premium leather and high-quality materials. A 17.7-inch touchscreen occupies the center console, complemented by an 11-inch driver display. The interior design rivals traditional compact crossovers and signifies Chevrolet’s focus on creating an attractive, value-packed cabin.
Exterior Design
Externally, the Equinox EV is both eye-catching and approachable. With a distinctive two-tone color scheme and refined design cues, it brings a touch of nostalgia, reminiscent of classic Chevys like the Bel Air and Impala. The well-thought-out design, combining form and function, makes the Equinox EV an aspirational yet accessible vehicle.
Conclusion
The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV stands as a testament to Chevrolet’s renewed ambition and adaptability. With its attractive pricing, advanced features, and solid performance, it’s poised to disrupt the electric compact crossover market. This model has the potential to attract new customers and reclaim some of Chevrolet’s former glory. The Equinox EV is an exciting step forward, suggesting a bright future for Chevrolet in the electric vehicle landscape.
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Jack Carney, Editor of Automotive.fyi
