“Just how rubbery is this gonna feel?,” I thought to myself moments before driving the all-new 2025 Chevy Equinox in Minneapolis last week. “Not rubbery at all,” I would end up telling myself after planting the accelerator moments later.
Hit the play button on the video below to see our initial driving impressions of the new Equinox firsthand.
My expectation of rubbery, lethargic acceleration was the result of borderline traumatic experiences with several non-GM models with CVTs years ago, including the Nissan Rogue and Sentra, along with the Honda CR-V (all cars owned by friends and acquaintances). Luckily, the CVT in the new Equinox is night and day compared to the ones in the Nissans and Honda. I didn’t get a rubbery feeling at all, and planting the throttle resulted in quite direct and precise acceleration. In fact, strong input of the throttle had no problem chirping the Equinox’s tires before traction control intervened to save me from… myself (watch that moment in the video above).
For background, the 2025 Chevy Equinox was overhauled to represent the fourth generation of the popular nameplate. Unlike the last-gen model, which featured GM’s six-speed automatic transmission across all configurations, the 2025 ‘Nox gets a CVT for front-drive variants, while equipping all-wheel-drive units with a new eight-speed automatic gearbox. Horsepower for both FWD and AWD models is the same at 175, but models with the CVT make slightly less torque (184 pound-feet) than those with the 8-speed (203 pound-feet).
Despite having 19 fewer pound-feet of twist, the CVT actually felt more responsive and sprightly than the automatic. So much so that a few minutes after hopping behind the wheel, I felt compelled to hop out of the Equinox and double check that the model I was driving was, in fact, FWD.
Developed and assembled by GM in-house, the well-sorted Continuously Variable Transmission is half the reason for how responsive the 2025 Equinox FWD feels under acceleration. The gearbox CVT is further assisted by the turbocharged 1.5L I-4 LSD engine, which carries over from the final years of the last-gen model. In fact, the combination of the new CVT with the LSD motor enabled engineers to optimize the powertrain to deliver a flatter torque curve than before; peak torque comes in slightly below 2K RPM and stays there until just prior to 4K RPM. It’s exactly this that delivers the responsive acceleration feel.
“This CVT really doesn’t suck,” I told my driving partner (and GMA Editor) Mike Deslauriers. Given my prior experience with CVTs, never in a million years did I imagine I would ever think, let alone speak, those words.
The good news doesn’t end there, since the 2025 Chevy Equinox also excels in many other areas, including a comfortable and quiet ride, great outward visibility and seating, the latest technology and a long list Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) features.
Additionally, the redesigned exterior finally turns the Equinox into a very attractive compact crossover SUV, while the all-new interior features much better materials, making the cabin a great and comfy place in which to spend time while racking up the miles. We’ll delve into each of these areas over the course of the next two weeks, so be sure to subscribe to GM Authority for more Chevy Equinox news, Chevy news, and unending GM news coverage.
Comments
Yawn.
The excuses for mediocrity are getting old Alex. The equinox & terrain will remain at the bottom of the segment and won’t touch the RAV4 especially the prime version with 300+ hp
GMC Fan,
You’re very wrong! You have never driven any Chevy Equinox. I have a 2009 model and it is a superb model. In 15 years it has given me no problems at all. This is why it sells more than any other GM SUV and only the Silverado sells more. GM continues to make great vehicles. And my next one will be the Equinox EV soon, if it arrives at my dealer.
@GMC Fan
Please answer the following questions to the best of your ability, citing credible sources:
1. Have you driven the 2025 Equinox or even been near one yet?
2. “You say that “The equinox & terrain will remain at the bottom of the segment”…
I ask: at the bottom of the segment in terms of what? Sales? Equinox alone is third in its segment out of 15 models… certainly not anywhere close to “the bottom”.
3. RAV4 Prime is $45K decently equipped. Is that really the car you’re buying at that price point – an expensive Toyota? For $5K more, you can get yourself a luxury car with better residual/resale and some decent materials. Also, are customers in this space looking 300 hp for $45K?
Yes and I owned a 2020 Terrain. The 1.5 Turbo barely passes as a base engine let alone being the only option in the vehicle. Now lets look at the competition
The Nissan Rogue has over 200 hp with its 1.5 Turbo, Ditto for Honda’s CR-V which even has a hybrid option. The RAV4 has more power and efficiency without a turbo and a 40 mpg hybrid version like Honda’s CR-V.
The Ford escape offers both a hybrid & PHEV that gets a 4k tax credit and over 40 mpg. Plus the option of a 2.0 ecoboost with nearly 250 hp. Even the Volkswagen Tiguan has more power.
With how competitive this segment is offering mediocre only powertrain & no hybrid option from GM is a sure way to shrink your market share.
For your 2nd point about resale value go to Kelly Blue Book and compare an equinox or terrain to a RAV4 with similar options @ 4 years and 60,000 miles of wear in very good condition.
For an SLE Terrain that was $30,000 new the resale value is down to $15,000 after 4 years and 60k miles. The RAV4 XLE premium which MSRPed at $30,000 is worth $23500 after 4 years and 60k miles. Thats 50% higher resale value. No wonder more GM owners are upside down on their vehicle loans like Stellantis/Hyundai/Kia/Mercedes etc.
It sounds like you haven’t driven the 2025 Equinox… so your answer to my first question should have been “NO, I HAVE NOT DRIVEN THE 2025 EQUINOX.”
Not sure how we can continue to have an informed conversation about a topic… but I’ll play along.
You keep praising “the competition” like the Rogue and Escape, all the while the Equinox consistently outsells both of those nameplates. Clearly Chevy is doing something right in this regard. In fact, there won’t be a next-Escape – that’s how well the Equinox has been doing:
https://fordauthority.com/2024/08/ford-escape-production-to-end-at-louisville-by-2026-report/
Now, the RAV4 and CR-V do outsell the Equinox, but it’s not because of their powertrain or wide variety of powertrain choices. The amount of power a vehicle makes is NOT a top consideration for customers in this segment. Bringing this up as a benefit in this segment is the equivalent of telling a guy having a beer at the bar that the wheat used to make his beer was cut using super military grade aluminum. It’s a cool talking point, but largely irrelevant to the end user.
Regarding resale value: again, you’re referring to the last-gen model while the topic at hand is the next-gen, 2025 Equinox. Let’s see how resale values fare for the new model, which is a huge improvement over the outgoing one.
Having spent two days abusing the 2025 Equinox last week, here’s the bottom line: it does a lot things very, very right. It’s not perfect, and no car is… but it’s a huge step in the right direction. You can knock it all you want for not having a hybrid or PHEV… which it lacks FOR NOW.
That is also reflected in the Equinox’s low price and high value proposition, which is a major advantage here. How much will the Equinox PHEV cost? I’ll guess around $45K… at which point you might as well step up into a D-segment luxury crossover like an X3, GLC-Class, etc. I would say XT5, but it’s not long for this (part of the) world.
“I would say XT5, but it’s not long for this (part of the) world.”
When you ignore a car for nearly a decade or so, sales tend to taper off…..
I’m sure that money was much better spent on Brighdrop or Cruise, or whatever.
Meanwhile Lexus will continue to sell every RX it builds and put Cadillac into the grave.
Shhhh don’t tell Stellantis that. Or GM.
Vehicles that are neglected and not updated will die. The Malibu being a great example of that. The new 2025 Camry is lightyears ahead and nearly 50 mpg is going to help Toyota’s CAFE numbers while GM will start paying billions.
Cadillac will NOT go down that easily….The Escalade is bigger than the LX , and the people buying Lexus have money to spend+ brand loyalty (Toyota loyalists)
Lexus has NO V8s also…only complex twin turbos and ONE RX500H V6+ Hybrid…
GMCfan just refuses to answer questions and cherry picks a stat they are better at. We all know you meant sales and reviews which they don’t end up anywhere near the bottom of the pack in.
Lets review your reply. Ignore question number 1 as you haven’t been in one yet. Cherry pick question number 2 to save face on something you can spin in their favor. Ignore question number 3 and don’t answer.
Lets address the base engine comment you made. As I know you have been around awhile and seen this article. The 1.5 is right in line with their base engines in HP and way up on torque compared to most including some optional engines. It accelerates just fine with the others. GM could have added power, they decided on other factors (probably longevity or drivability) as so much goes in to parameters on engien design. Uses, targets for vibrations, sound, mpg, feel, power, acceleration, etc. The Honda base engine has 15 more HP and over 20 less ftlbs. STOP FOCUSING ON HP, that isn’t what you want a priority on in a family hauling DD. Feels like trying to talk to a kid with a broken record.
Next time answer the questions and post up factual info please, that will help all involved with your discussion, thanks!
You really are putting the To Much !gnorance in TMI.
1st there isn’t any cherry picking. The top competitors in this segment have much more powerful and efficient engines. Quit trying to excuse away the mediocre 1.5 Turbo. 2nd the resale value is a fact and easy to confirm. Kelly Blue Book is a strong benchmark used by the industry and when you go to trade in your vehicle the dealer off will be based off that rather you like it or not.
But hey blind loyalty is a weakness that allows the competitors to thrive.
“3. RAV4 Prime is $45K decently equipped. Is that really the car you’re buying at that price point – an expensive Toyota? For $5K more, you can get yourself a luxury car with better residual/resale and some decent materials. Also, are customers in this space looking 300 hp for $45K?”
This is the most ridiculous cope post…..
This turd has less hp and torque than a 30 year old Buick with a 3800, and gets worse mpg too…..
For $5K more…..why not for $500K more just get a Rolls Phantom?
Don’t forget that 30 year old buick is still going strong even with 250,000+ miles while the Equinox will be ready for the crusher if it hasn’t been crushed already.
Ummm Alex is saying he wouldn’t buy the equinox or the RAV at $45k but rather a luxury car… struggling to see the cope…
The Equinox and Malibu use to have the 2.0 litre but few people bought them.
I have a 2022 blazer 3.6. 308 HP. I’m downsizing to either a new trax or equinox. I have a C8 corvette that gives me all the performance I need
The Toyota rav4 may have better HP, but GM makes better vehicles. As I read it, this supposed gmc fan has a Toyota d!ck up his @$$.
Also, significantly cheaper vehicles. Anyone looking for a lux barge won’t be getting a RAV 4. They’ll move on up the chain. Here the real reason GM cheap out on the equinox – is a cheap segment of ecobox people haulers. The CVT is effective, and that’s all it needs to be.
As for acceleration, that feel is because GM uses a torque converter and the CVT doesn’t start being a CVT till 15MPH, under light pedal, 35, almost 40 under hard acceleration, once the converter is locked and the band starts moving. Only thing this CVT will suck is gas. CVT’s are better than 4’s, and hold their own with 6 speed, due to infinite amount of ratios, but a transmission that’s principle is using friction to hold their torque conversion will never match the efficiency of a gear box. The nominal efficiency of this box is 88% vs 96 for the 8.
Thanks for the informative comment Steve. Do you have a source for the efficiency numbers? Also, considering the lousy EPA numbers for the Equinox CVT, is cost the only reason GM is using the CVT?
For the AT, there are SAE white papers on the 6speed and 10 Speed RWD. The ford GM 10Speed maxed out at 97% in direct drive, 96 in most other gears. The transaxle might exceed that with no rear axle bevel gear.
Yet GM’s better vehicles have 50% lower resale value after 4 years than Toyota’s.
The market always has the final say. Just ask Mary Berra and her EV fantasies that have blown up.
50% lower resale values DOES NOT mean an inferior vehicle. Maybe you can check the lawsuits Toyota has had in recent years..
The problem is, NOT everyone has the money to buy a Toyota. They buy what they can afford.
Go ahead and insult me…will NOT change a thing.
I’m a 2019 Equinox FWD 1.5T Premier owner. I bought it new and it has 48.5k miles on it now. We’ve had no problems with it and there was one minor recall for retainer clip. We have loaded the vehicle with luggage and headed through the Smoky Mountains on vacation. It held 70-80 mph with no problems and still averaged 29 mpg for the trip. It’s a very comfortable vehicle. I do my own maintenance and it uses almost zero oil between 5k mile changes. I’ve never understood why the resale on GM’s is so low compared to Toyota but I don’t care because I keep them 10 years and then pass them on to younger family members. My daily driver is a 2012 Silverado and our backup is a 2009 Pontiac G-6. All were purchased new and all have been good vehicles. I may be in the market soon though, because my soon to be 16 year old granddaughter has her eyes on the Pontiac, but she’ll have to pry it away from my wife. Hmmm maybe a new Silverado would do the trick?
Agree with you 100%. Those here who are praising Toyota are likely being paid by them….Let them go buy them..
If a Toyota is such a good quality, it MUST NOT squeak after several years of abuse…like what happens with Land Cruisers here in Qatar.
Resale does not matter if you want to drive it to the ground…and in any case, GMC/Chevrolet Full Size SUVs and Trucks have plenty of resale…depending on their condition.
CVTs get dogged about cliche rubber band nonsense when in actually most CVTs now simulate shifts now to negate that issue. That issue was solved over a decade ago.
CVTs also tend to tap into available torque curves way quicker on a turbo’s low end, and they stay locked into that band for far longer. That’s why the Malibu with the 1.5T went from an almost 10 second car to high 7s. I wouldn’t be surprised if the CVT 1.5T terrain also shaves some 0-60 time off it’s predecessor.
I prefer CVTs over a traditional automatic if I have to have an automatic now.
Once people sit and drive any modern car with a CVT built this decade, they change their minds pretty quick… similar to how the guy in this YouTube video played out. His reaction is usually the same reaction most people have if they even know it’s a CVT to begin with.
I haven’t driven a 1.5T CVT terrain, but my 1.5T CVT Civic (with 150,000 miles on it, and not a single issue with the CVT) doesn’t accelerate like a rubber band. Punchy is a better term, you push the pedal down and it punches up to where it needs to be. The only time I get a rubber band is if I’m moderately stepping on it, and as I take my foot off the pedal it revs down… and I actually appreciate it more than the jolt a traditional automatic makes when it downshifts.
Drive a modern day CVT, you’ll probably change your mind.
Another mouse motor wheezy tiny motor……
And yet it gets the job done and thousands of people are perfectly happy with it. Get a life.
That is equal to or superior to the competitions base motors. Give me torque over HP any day in a DD suv that is made to haul people and gear…
https://gmauthority.com/blog/2024/01/all-new-2025-chevy-equinox-engine-compared-to-direct-rivals/
I’ve owned 2 Terrains with 1.5T (2018 & 2022). Zero complaints. Great little motor with enough power to scoot around town and more than enough energy to enter the freeway, cruise, and pass with ease. Plus, the cabin is tomb quiet.
In order to get their heavy hauling done, semi truck buyers pay little attention to horsepower. They look at torque output. That is one reason that most owners of Equinox/Terrain are not complaining about the get up and go. Torque gets any engine going immediately.