2025 Chevy Equinox Activ AWD: Better Than a Nissan Rogue?

Redesigned Exterior and Off-Road Styling

• 🚀 The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox Activ trim features a new aggressive face with LED daytime running lamps, headlights, and fog lamps, utilizing dark chrome and gloss black accents.
• 💡 The two-tone paint scheme and machined aluminum 17-inch wheels with General Grabber all-terrain tires give the Equinox Activ a distinct off-road attitude.
• ⚠️ A minor drawback is the lack of extra ground clearance despite the off-road styling, and the presence of large fake front vents.
• ✨ The rear design includes all-LED taillights, a sculpted bumper for better departure angles, and hidden exhaust tips, contributing to an overall improved aesthetic.

Powertrain and Performance

• ⚙️ Under the hood, the Equinox is powered by a 1.5L turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque.
• 🐎 Paired with all-wheel drive, it uses a traditional 8-speed automatic transmission, avoiding a CVT, though the 0-60 mph time is noted at 8.4 seconds.
• ⛽ Fuel economy is rated around 24 MPG city and 29 MPG highway, with the ability to disconnect AWD for better MPG on the highway.
• 😔 The reviewer expresses a desire for an updated engine, feeling it's the main area for improvement in an otherwise significantly updated vehicle.

Interior and Technology

• 🛋️ The interior boasts a two-tone tan and black design with soft-touch materials and contrast stitching, though gloss black surfaces are prone to smudges.
• 📱 A prominent 11-inch touchscreen infotainment system offers clear graphics, a real volume knob, and easy access to vehicle status and auxiliary gauges.
• ❄️ Physical controls are present for dual climate control, with three stages for both heated and ventilated seats.
• 🔌 Connectivity includes USB-C and USB-A ports, wireless charging, and a spacious center console storage area.

Comfort, Space, and Driving Dynamics

• 💺 The seats are praised for their comfort, support, and good looks, featuring an Alcantara-style material and bolstering.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Rear-seat passengers benefit from ample legroom, AC vents, heated seats, and two USB-C ports, making it spacious for a compact crossover.
• 📦 The cargo area offers 30 cubic feet of space with seats up and 64 cubic feet with seats down, plus under-floor storage.
• 🛣️ On the road, the ride is well-tuned, offering a comfortable on-road experience without being floaty or bouncy, and the steering provides good feel.
• 🔊 Road noise is slightly noticeable due to the all-terrain tires but is considered a reasonable compromise for off-road capability.

Final Verdict and Competition

• 👍 The 2025 Equinox Activ is highlighted for its mind-blowing interior, exterior styling, and technology.
• 🤔 The primary concern remains the engine performance, which could be improved for a more complete package.
• 🏆 The reviewer questions if the Equinox Activ trumps competitors like the new Honda CRV Trail Sport, inviting viewer opinions.