The 2025 Chevy Equinox launches the fourth generation of the Bow Tie brand crossover with an assortment of updates and changes. It features new styling, an overhauled interior, bigger screens in the cockpit, new safety tech and the introduction of the Activ trim. Here, GM Authority is giving you a closer look at its drive modes.
Driver Mode Control or DMC includes four different modes to choose from while driving the 2025 Chevy Equinox. These consist of Normal Mode, Snow/Ice Mode, Off-Road Mode and AWD Mode.
In order to switch between modes the driver has a control knob available on the center console that can be rotated to flip through the modes. Notably, the 2025Â Chevy Equinox crossover in its entry-level LT trim level does not include a drive mode selector.
Notably, this will change with the arrival of the 2026 Chevy Equinox, which will get the drive mode selector equipped as a standard feature.
Normal Mode
Normal Mode is the default mode for 2025 Chevy Equinox driving. Selecting this mode aims at combining comfort and good handling characteristics, and is also likely to provide the best fuel economy in most situations. It’s appropriate both for highway and city street driving.
Snow/Ice Mode
The Snow/Ice Mode included on the Chevy Equinox has two effects when engaged. It activates all-wheel drive (AWD) to ensure maximum powered interaction between the wheels and the road surface. It also helps with traction by tuning pedal response for improved acceleration on snow or ice. This may actually reduce acceleration on dry, clear pavement.
Off-Road Mode
Off-Road Mode in the 2025 Chevy Equinox adjusts more performance functions of the vehicle than Ice/Snow, making it able to “improve driving at moderate speeds, on grass, gravel, dirt, unpaved roads, or snow-covered roads” according to GM. It activates all-wheel drive (AWD) while also modifying the response of the Traction Control System and StabiliTrak Electronic Stability System.
AWD Mode
The Equinox AWD Mode activates all-wheel drive to provide grip on moderate slippery surfaces such as wet pavement, sending engine torque to all wheels simultaneously.
As a reminder, the 2025 Equinox is equipped with only one engine choice, specifically the turbocharged 1.5L I4 LSD gasoline engine. This develops 175 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque with the front-wheel drivetrain, and 175 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque with AWD.
The Bow Tie brand crossover rides on the GM D2 platform, with production taking place at the GM San Luis Potosà plant in Mexico.
Comments
Once GM brings the hybrid option stateside, the Equinox will be a car to consider. Until then, no thanks.
What is the selection if you are towing a trailer?
Only available engine is a 1.5 4-cyl, probably not a good choice for trailering.