Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Power
Combined, EPA 2027
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Owners generally view the Equinox EV as a strong value proposition, especially when factoring in substantial rebates, tax credits, and dealer discounts that can bring the price down significantly.
8 problems reported (3 recurrent, 5 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentEarly Ultium platform teething issues, especially with technology
- RecurrentLack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is a deal-breaker for some
- RecurrentRelatively slow DC fast charging compared to competitors (10-80% in about 40 minutes)
+ 5 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedService High Voltage System alert appearing very early in ownership (within 2 miles)
- IsolatedTurn signal stalk sometimes slaps too hard after a turn and activates the opposite direction
- IsolatedFWD model has limited highway passing power
- IsolatedSome owners find the Google-based infotainment system clunky and slow compared to Tesla
- IsolatedUncommon tire sizes (e.g., 245/55 R19) may limit winter tire availability
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus. Some owners praise the AWD RS trim for its performance and features, while others recommend the base LT trim for its exceptional value when heavily discounted. The FWD base model is noted to be significantly slower than the AWD version, which may be a deciding factor.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Tesla Model Y, Tesla Model 3, Chevrolet Bolt EV/EUV, Ford Mustang Mach-E and Hyundai Ioniq 5.
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Overall sentiment
Owners generally view the Equinox EV as a strong value proposition, especially when factoring in substantial rebates, tax credits, and dealer discounts that can bring the price down significantly. Praise centers on its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and good range for the price. Criticism focuses on the lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (replaced by Google's built-in system), relatively slow DC fast charging speeds compared to competitors, and some early teething issues with the new Ultium platform. The vehicle is often described as a sensible, practical choice rather than an exciting one.
Positioning vs competitors
Owners consistently position the Equinox EV as the smarter, more practical, and better-value choice compared to the Tesla Model Y, citing lower insurance costs, better build quality, and a more comfortable ride. Against the Tesla Model 3, the Equinox is seen as more spacious and practical but less technologically advanced and slower to charge. Compared to the Chevrolet Bolt, the Equinox is a significant upgrade in size, charging speed, and overall refinement. Against the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6, the Equinox is considered a better value when discounted but loses on charging speed and future-proofing. The Ford Mustang Mach-E is noted for having Apple CarPlay and a more user-friendly charging network, but the Equinox often wins on price.
Recommended configurations
Owners recommend leasing rather than buying due to rapid EV depreciation and the ability to capture the federal tax credit through the lease. For those set on buying, the base LT trim with all available rebates is frequently cited as an unbeatable deal. The AWD version is preferred for its better performance, though the FWD is adequate for around-town driving. The RS trim is recommended for those wanting top features and sporty looks.
General recommendations
The Equinox EV is recommended for buyers seeking a practical, spacious, and affordable electric SUV, especially those who can charge at home and don't require the fastest DC charging speeds. It is less recommended for those who prioritize cutting-edge technology, the fastest charging, or who rely heavily on public charging infrastructure. Owners advise thoroughly test-driving the vehicle, particularly to assess the infotainment system's lack of phone projection, and to carefully review and negotiate dealer add-ons like "protection packages." Some owners suggest waiting for the 2025 model year to allow GM to address early teething issues.
Remarks
The Equinox EV is built on GM's new Ultium platform, which it shares with the Blazer EV, Cadillac Lyriq, and Honda Prologue, though owners note they operate at different battery voltage ranges with real-world charging implications. The vehicle supports Tesla's Supercharger network via an adapter, which some owners appreciate. A notable number of owner discussions are heavily influenced by political and personal opinions about Tesla and its CEO, which colors many comparisons. Analysis based on approximately 24 substantive owner discussions.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearSource: NHTSA (US)Show table
Recall notices10 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2026 · tires:tread/beltcampaign 25V704000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Cadillac Optic and 2025-2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV vehicles equipped with 21-inch Continental all-season tires. One or more of these tires may experience partial or full tread detachment.
2026 · back over prevention:warnings:external/pedestrian alertcampaign 25V878000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Equinox EV vehicles. The pedestrian alert sound system may not produce a sufficient change in volume between the vehicle being stopped and moving at low speeds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles."
2026 · equipment:other:owners/service/other manualcampaign 26V114000
General Motors has decided that certain 2027 Chevrolet Bolt EV, 2025-2026 Cadillac OPTIQ, Chevrolet Colorado, Equinox EV, GMC Canyon, 2026 Buick Enclave, Envision, Cadillac CT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade IQ, Escalade IQL, LYRIQ, VISTIQ, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Corvette Convertible, Corvette Coupe, Corvette Convertible E-Ray, Equinox, Silverado 1500, 2500, 3500, Silverado EV, Suburban 1500, Tahoe, Traverse, GMC Acadia, Hummer EV Pickup, Hummer EV SUV, Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500, Sierra EV, Terrain, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The radio may not have been set to the correct status to download the electronic owner's manual during production. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, “Occupant Protection.”
2025 · latches/locks/linkages:doors:latchcampaign 24V737000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2025 Chevrolet Blazer, Blazer EV, and Equinox vehicles. The door strikers were not properly heat-treated, which can cause them to break.
2025 · electrical system:body control module/bcmcampaign 24V925000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV vehicles. The pedestrian alert sound system may have incorrect software and not produce sound at a sufficient volume. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles."
2025 · service brakes, hydrauliccampaign 25V012000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV all-wheel drive electric vehicles. The adaptive cruise control may fail to engage the brakes as expected, due to incorrect brake module software.
2025 · tires:tread/beltcampaign 25V704000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Cadillac Optic and 2025-2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV vehicles equipped with 21-inch Continental all-season tires. One or more of these tires may experience partial or full tread detachment.
2025 · back over prevention:warnings:external/pedestrian alertcampaign 25V878000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Equinox EV vehicles. The pedestrian alert sound system may not produce a sufficient change in volume between the vehicle being stopped and moving at low speeds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles."
2025 · equipment:other:owners/service/other manualcampaign 26V114000
General Motors has decided that certain 2027 Chevrolet Bolt EV, 2025-2026 Cadillac OPTIQ, Chevrolet Colorado, Equinox EV, GMC Canyon, 2026 Buick Enclave, Envision, Cadillac CT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade IQ, Escalade IQL, LYRIQ, VISTIQ, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Corvette Convertible, Corvette Coupe, Corvette Convertible E-Ray, Equinox, Silverado 1500, 2500, 3500, Silverado EV, Suburban 1500, Tahoe, Traverse, GMC Acadia, Hummer EV Pickup, Hummer EV SUV, Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500, Sierra EV, Terrain, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The radio may not have been set to the correct status to download the electronic owner's manual during production. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, “Occupant Protection.”
2024 · forward collision avoidance: warnings:external/pedestrian alertcampaign 25V639000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV vehicles. The pedestrian alert sound system may not produce a sufficient change in volume between the vehicle being stopped and moving at low speeds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles."
Specifications
89 kWh Dual Motor eAWD
Electric · 288 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2024–2026