Gas vs Electric: Which Chevy Equinox Do You Want?

When you’re looking for a Chevy Equinox for sale, you’re going to end up having to make a decision: do you want the gas-powered version or the electric one? Both are, without a doubt, high-quality SUVs beloved by drivers. There’s no single correct answer to which one is better, either; instead, you’ll want to consider your needs and preferences before making a decision.

Making that decision is what we want to help you with today. We’re going to walk you through why the Equinox (gas or electric) is a great SUV and then take a look at the differences between the traditional Equinox and the Equinox EV so you can arrive at an informed decision you have confidence in. Then, you’ll want to visit us here at Parks Chevrolet Charlotte to find the Equinox that matches your automotive lifestyle.

Before we break down the differences, it’s worth noting that both versions of the SUV are economically priced. Competing SUVs usually cost more—sometimes a lot more. Chevy has long had a reputation for reasonable pricing, and this SUV only continues that trend. That’s how you can rest assured that you’re already making the right choice by considering an Equinox to begin with. It’s a sleek-looking ride, making certain that you feel empowered wherever you’re pulling up. The front grille has a touch of intimidation, and the bowtie logo adds a dash of class. Anyone who takes a ride with you will be impressed with your sense of style.

The Type of Powertrain Makes a Difference

Both the gas-powered engine and the electric powertrain are going to give you a reliable ride. You’ll feel a sense of smoothness as you drive down the freeway, and you won’t feel like you’re struggling to keep up with the other vehicles on the road. But there are clear differences between the two options you’ll want to know about before making a call on which works best for you.

The gas-powered Equinox pulls up to the curb with a turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder engine that produces 175 hp and 203 lb-ft of torque. It’s an engine that’s been standard on all trims of this SUV since 2021, so you don’t have to shell out for a higher trim just to get a different engine. However, you can choose between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. This four-cylinder takes around 8.6 seconds to go from zero to 60 mph.

The 2025 Equinox EV’s electric powertrain produces 220 hp in its standard front-wheel drive configuration. However, you can upgrade to a dual motor configuration, which produces 300 hp. With that all-wheel drive option, you can get your Equinox EV from zero to 60 mph in just 5.8 seconds. There’s no question that in terms of sheer power, the EV offers a lot more. For those who want an athletic ride, one that has no issue merging onto the highway, the EV might be the way to go. Getting that high-performing powertrain does require paying for an upgrade, though.

A small but noticeable improvement with the Equinox EV’s performance is that it is far quieter than the traditional Equinox. You and your passengers will notice that having a chat is far easier than it used to be and that your music does not need to be at as high a volume. Many customers who make the transition to an EV report back that this quality of life change made a positive difference in their experience on the roads.

Fuel Economy and Starting Price Both Play Their Part

When it comes to efficiency, the Equinox EV has a clear advantage. The only cost you have is the cost of charging it, while the traditional Equinox will instead require consistent stops at the gas station. However, if you do not have the ability to charge where you live (say, if you live in an apartment building with no garage or charging outlets), then the electric vehicle could prove inconvenient.

If you can charge at home, you have clear advantages: you will not be at the mercy of always fluctuating gas prices, nor will you have to extend your morning commute due to stops at the gas station. The 2025 Equinox EV also has an exceptional estimated range of up to 319 miles. In most cases, you can just charge the SUV at home and not worry about locating a charging station during your treks.

This is not to say the traditional Equinox is a terrible deal when it comes to efficiency, though. Not even remotely. The front-wheel drive 2025 Equinox earned an EPA-estimated 26 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. Driving on the highway requires less stop and go (well, usually!), which is why it results in a better fuel efficiency rating. This is solid fuel efficiency and won’t have you breaking the bank just because it’s time to refuel.

Another element worth introducing to this discussion is the starting price. The Equinox EV eliminates gas costs but has a higher starting price (although it is still cheaper than most EVs in its class) than the traditional Equinox. If cost is your main factor, then you will want to be certain to calculate the amount of driving you do. If you’re regularly on the road, or when you are on the road, you take very long journeys, then the EV’s higher starting cost will be offset relatively quickly. If you don’t drive often, then you will have to decide if the gas engine might be a more economical option since you don’t have to visit the pump as frequently.

Cargo Is Key in Any SUV

When you own an SUV, you want to know you have plenty of luggage room. Spacious cargo volume is a key reason to have this class of vehicle, of course, so you don’t want numbers that let you down. When you take a trip with family and friends, no one should feel like they have to leave suitcases behind because there’s not enough room for things to fit in. And if you have kids? Well, it can get very frustrating if someone has to decide whose favorite toy or outfit isn’t coming along for the trip.

The traditional Equinox has 29.8 cu.ft. of cargo volume behind the second row. If you fold down that back row, you more than double that amount to 63.5 cu.ft. There’s also a hidden storage area beneath the floor in the back so you can keep valuables out of sight; this works quite well if you’re taking a long trip and have to make pit stops, but don’t want someone seeing your laptop case or a similar item.

Due to its more streamlined design, the Equinox EV comes with less cargo space than its gas-powered sibling. Behind the rear row, you can store 26.4 cu.ft. of cargo. When you fold down the rear row, you get 57.2 cu.ft. These are not bad numbers, but the traditional Equinox definitely gives you more room to play with. For many customers, cargo volume is a deciding factor. For those who take regular trips and need to bring a lot along for the journey, the gas Equinox might be the way to go.

These Vehicles Excel But Meet Different Needs

When it comes to cost, the Equinox EV tends to be the better option for drivers who consistently hit the road; for drivers who only go out occasionally, the money saved by the EV’s more efficient powertrain might not be enough to make up for a higher initial cost. For drivers who want power, the Equinox EV again comes away as the clear winner. However, the traditional Equinox may be the way to go for buyers looking for ample cargo room.

There are other factors, such as appearance, that can also play a part, but we know the three categories we touched on today are the big ones. By evaluating them, you’ll be able to decide which Equinox should be your next purchase. Do you have further questions about these SUVs? We’ll be happy to answer them here at Parks Chevrolet Charlotte.