Chevrolet
Equinox
Hyundai
IONIQ 5
Chevrolet Equinox vs Hyundai IONIQ 5: 2024 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 comes out ahead of the Chevrolet Equinox on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Equinox
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided by powertrain and generation. For the internal combustion engine (ICE) models, particularly from the 2010s (e.g., 2011-2019), sentiment is overwhelmingly negative, dominated by reports of severe and recurrent mechanical failures leading to significant owner frustration and distrust. The consensus indicates these models are viewed as unreliable and costly to maintain long-term.
Best version to buy
For the Equinox EV, the LT trim with the available Comfort and Safety Package 2 is mentioned as offering a good balance of value and features, though owners note the inconvenience of accessing the surround vision camera on this configuration. The Activ trim is selected by some for its unique interior color options.
Known issues
- ⚠**Internal Combustion Engine Models (2010s, e.g., 2011-2019):** * Severe engine problems (oil consumption, timing chain issues, PCV valve failures leading to blown seals, complete engine failure) – very frequent.
- ⚠**Equinox EV (2025-2026):** * Software and electrical glitches (blank screens, faulty speed limit recognition, phantom parking brake engagement, Bluetooth connectivity drops) – recurrent.
IONIQ 5
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided, creating a high-risk, high-reward ownership profile. On the positive side, the vehicle is very frequently praised for its unique and head-turning retro-futuristic design, spacious and comfortable interior, smooth and quiet ride quality, rapid DC charging capability (800V architecture), and useful Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) feature. Many owners report high satisfaction, describing it as one of the best cars they've owned, with excellent driving dynamics and practicality.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" trim. Commentary indicates the Limited (or Ultimate) trim is appreciated for its higher feature content, including a physical button for seat profiles.
Known issues
- ⚠ICCU (Integrated Charging Control Unit) failure: causes complete vehicle shutdown, long repair delays, subject of government investigation and potential class-action lawsuits. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Software bugs and electronic glitches: slow user profile loading, cruise control and driver aids disabled by rain/snow, system freezes, unreliable wireless CarPlay/Android Auto. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠12V battery failures: causes warning messages and complete no-start conditions, requiring booster packs or replacement. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Chevrolet Equinox, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Chevrolet Equinox is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Chevrolet Equinox or the Hyundai IONIQ 5?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Chevrolet Equinox and the Hyundai IONIQ 5. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Chevrolet Equinox or the Hyundai IONIQ 5?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Chevrolet Equinox or the Hyundai IONIQ 5?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Chevrolet Equinox or the Hyundai IONIQ 5?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Chevrolet Equinox than the Hyundai IONIQ 5. See the known issues comparison above.