2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV review blending rugged design with everyday practicality

The SUV landscape continues to evolve, blending aggressive styling with tech-forward refinement and daily usability. One of the latest contenders itching to redefine this balance is the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV. While the ACTIV trim stands out visually with its off-road-inspired aesthetics and subtle performance cues, does it truly deliver the adventure it’s dressed for? In this in-depth look, we unpack what makes the EQUINOX ACTIV tick, and whether it lives up to its bold design — especially for enthusiasts and automotive dealers looking for future bestsellers.

A Bold Evolution: The New Design Language

The 2025 Equinox ACTIV signals a clear design departure from the previous generation. With commanding presence and revised architectural proportions, Chevrolet clearly aims to inject a dose of rugged cool into its compact SUV lineup.

• Exterior Features: The ACTIV wears a black mesh grille and body-colored trim, ditching the traditional chrome accents for a more modern, lifestyle-oriented look.
• Raised Ride Height: The ACTIV trim boasts a modest lift, enhanced by unique 17-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires — not meant for Moab but enough for dirt roads and midwestern winters.
• Distinct Styling Cues: Rear skid plates, black badging, and squared-off wheel arches add the beefy aesthetic SUV shoppers crave in 2025.

The look plays into the current overlanding trend, reminiscent of rugged off-road vehicles yet tailored for urban convenience. For dealers, this visual upgrade is sure to catch the eye of younger families and outdoorsy buyers.

Interior Fit and Finish: Function Meets Form

Step inside and you’re welcomed by a much-improved cabin experience. Chevy has dialed up the fit and finish, offering a cabin that feels both upscale and smartly arranged.

Dashboard and Tech Experience

• Command Center: A 11-inch digital driver display pairs seamlessly with an 11.3-inch infotainment screen, sharing Google Built-In for voice commands, Google Maps navigation, and app access.
• User Experience: The touchscreen orientation and menu system are intuitive. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, along with an available Wi-Fi hotspot.
• Material Quality: The ACTIV trim includes contrasting stitching, textured fabric inserts, and exclusive seat patterns, channeling premium vibes without bloating the price tag.

The interior escalates comfort, blending daily-driver practicality with features that tech-savvy consumers now expect. For car dealers looking to showcase value, the EQUINOX ACTIV offers top-tier design elements at a mid-level price point.

Under the Hood: Performance That Prioritizes Balance

Chevy opted for a moderate power solution in the new Equinox, focusing on reliability and everyday drivability.

Powertrain and Drive Experience

• Engine: The 2025 Equinox ACTIV features a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four, generating 175 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.
• Transmission: Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in front-wheel-drive specifications and an 8-speed automatic in all-wheel-drive (AWD) versions.
• Drive Modes: All-wheel-drive models include selectable modes for snow, off-road, and standard driving.

The Ride Quality

The Equinox ACTIV aims more for comfort than rugged handling. Suspension tuning and compact dimensions make it ideal for urban driving and light gravel trails. It’s not a rock-crawler, but it’s perfect for buyers who want the *appearance* of adventure with the *comfort* of suburban sensibility.

Fuel Efficiency and Versatility

Efficiency remains top of mind for many buyers in 2025, and the Equinox ACTIV holds its ground in this competitive segment.

• Estimated Fuel Economy: Around 27 mpg combined in FWD configurations; AWD slightly less
• Towing Capacity: A modest 1,500 pounds – suitable for small trailers, bikes, and weekend getaways
• Cargo Space: Rear seats fold flat offering up to 63.5 cubic feet, one of the segment’s most usable layouts

Functionality is a clear strength, making the ACTIV trim versatile for eclectic lifestyles. Its efficient profile and spacious cargo area appeal to both city dwellers and weekend travelers.

Safety Comes Standard

Chevrolet has outfitted the 2025 Equinox ACTIV with the brand’s comprehensive suite of safety tech known as Chevy Safety Assist.

• Standard Features: Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Front Pedestrian Braking, and Following Distance Indicator
• Additional Technologies: Optional Adaptive Cruise Control and HD Surround Vision for enhanced situational awareness

The commitment to safety underscores Enon Cars’ belief in supporting vehicles that meet both lifestyle and security expectations, a crucial point for modern buyers.

Price and Trim Levels: Where ACTIV Stands

The 2025 Equinox is available in a tiered lineup, with the ACTIV trim positioned above the entry-level LT and below the more premium RS trim.

• Starting MSRP: Approximately $31,000 for the ACTIV AWD
• Available Packages: Includes convenience upgrades like heated seats, roof rails, remote start, and dual-zone automatic climate control

Its competitive pricing and optional packages are strategically designed to appeal to consumers who want a crossover with a distinctive edge without stepping into true luxury pricing.

Where the Equinox ACTIV Ranks in a Crowded Segment

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV faces stiff competition from rivals like the Subaru Forester Wilderness, Toyota RAV4 Adventure, and Honda CR-V Sport. While it may not lead in raw off-road capability, it does serve an emerging market segment: people who want a lifestyle-led SUV with the *look* of rugged durability packaged with road-ready performance.

In Summary: Why the Equinox ACTIV Will Sell

• Lifestyle Appeal: Aesthetics of an adventure-mobile without demanding driving skills or trail know-how
• Technology-Rich Cabin: Google Built-In and large screens offer a modern in-car tech suite
• Affordability: Under $35K for most versions, with excellent value per feature
• Dealer Advantage: Easy upsell via appearance packages, AWD trim, and optional tech bundles

For car enthusiasts looking to upgrade their daily driver and for dealers aiming to diversify their crossover offerings, the Equinox ACTIV provides a compelling opportunity. It may not blaze mountain trails, but it’s perfectly equipped to navigate today’s digital highways, carpool lanes, and scenic byways.

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