Sunday Drive: 2025 Chevrolet Equinox Activ a compact SUV with rugged twist
As the crisp air of autumn gave way to the first snowfall here in Utah Valley, it was clear that Utah’s unique blend of scenic roads and unpredictable weather demanded a vehicle that would adapt. It was the perfect week for the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox Activ to arrive in our driveway.
The refreshed compact SUV promised to be more than just a city cruiser. Landing with an updated design, enhanced performance and a touch of ruggedness, the Equinox offered a driving experience that catered perfectly to us empty nesters who want both a great commuter and something we can depend to get us out on a weekend adventure.
Having the opportunity to put the Equinox to the test did not disappoint us, as we were able to get some great time not only back and forth to work but also in a small amount of canyon snow that came in early November.
First impressions: Rugged yet refined
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox received a stylish makeover, especially in the Activ trim, which we had the opportunity to drive. With its distinctive blacked-out grille, bold skid plates and all-terrain tires, this new variant gave off an adventurous spirit, ready to handle those off-the-beaten-path excursions. The Activ trim also came with unique roof rails and a slightly higher ground clearance than the standard Equinox.
Getting inside the Equinox, we found it did not compromise on comfort. The cabin featured a sleek and futuristic design, with premium leather seating that was both supportive and very comfortable on longer drives. Soft-touch materials and attention to detail created an upscale atmosphere, complemented by ambient lighting that set a relaxed tone during our autumn evening drives.
Performance: Ready for all terrains
Under the hood, the Equinox was powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 175 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. While it may not be the most powerful engine in its class, it provided a decent balance of power and fuel efficiency. The nine-speed automatic transmission shifted smoothly, making for a great driving experience, whether we were on our way to work or climbing the winding roads of Provo Canyon.
Chevy has tuned the Equinox Activ’s suspension for a slightly firmer ride, which translated to better handling on rougher terrain. While it’s not quite an off-road beast like the Jeep Cherokee, the Activ trim held its own on gravel and light off-road trails.
One of the standout features was the all-wheel drive system that came standard with the Activ trim. This AWD system intelligently distributes power to the wheels that need it most, giving drivers an added confidence in wet or snowy conditions — something Utah drivers would certainly appreciate in the winter months.
Interior comfort and technology
The Equinox has always been a comfortable SUV, and the 2025 Activ trim really took it up a notch. The heated front seats and dual-zone climate control came in handy during our chilly morning commutes, ensuring a cozy cabin environment. Rear passengers were treated to ample legroom, making it an ideal choice for families or those who frequently shuttle friends around.
Chevrolet’s latest Infotainment 3 system is user friendly and responsive, featuring an 11.3-inch diagonal touch-screen display with Google built in that supported both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The wireless charging pad and multiple USB-C ports kept our devices fully charged.
Additionally, the Equinox Activ was equipped with the latest driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and forward collision warning. The 360-degree camera system was a particularly useful feature when parking in tight spots or navigating through crowded parking lots at Smith’s or Walmart.
Driving dynamics: Smooth and efficient
On the road, the Equinox Activ delivered a fantastic ride. The turbocharged engine had enough pep to merge onto highways effortlessly, while the suspension struck a good balance between comfort and control. We took it on Interstate 80 from Park City and found it cruised effortlessly at highway speeds, with minimal road noise seeping into the cabin.
Fuel efficiency was another strong suit of the Equinox, with an estimated 26 mpg combined. On our test drive loop through the Wasatch Back, which included both highway and city driving, we ended at 27 mpg.
Cargo space: Ready for adventure
Something that has always stood out in the Equinox has been its practicality, and the 2025 model continued that tradition. The rear seats folded flat to reveal a generous cargo space of 63.9 cubic feet, which easily accommodated anything we needed to transport during the week. The hands-free power liftgate, standard on the Activ trim, was a blessing when our hands were full.
Chevrolet has thoughtfully included plenty of storage cubbies and compartments throughout the cabin, perfect for stashing away all the little necessities.
Safety first: Peace of mind on the road
Chevrolet takes safety seriously, and it was evident in the suite of safety features packed into the Equinox Activ. In addition to the advanced driver-assistance features mentioned earlier, the SUV also included automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection and rear cross-traffic alert.
At the end of the week: A balanced, versatile SUV
Overall, the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox Activ stuck a great balance between being a practical family SUV and a capable adventure vehicle. Its rugged styling, improved AWD system and user-friendly tech features made it a strong contender in the compact SUV segment. While it may not have the raw off-road capabilities of some of its rivals, it excels as a versatile daily driver that can handle Utah’s varying terrain with ease.
With a starting price of around $35,000 for the Activ trim, the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox offered good value for those who prioritize comfort, tech and versatility. And with Chevrolet’s reputation for reliability, it’s a solid choice for Utah families looking for an SUV that’s ready for both city streets and mountain trails.
The Equinox’s emphasis on customer satisfaction and attention to detail echoed Chevrolet’s commitment to delivering vehicles that cater to the needs of modern drivers. So, whether we were commuting to work in Provo or planning a road trip to Zion National Park, this SUV ensured that we would do so in comfort and style.
Base price: $35,000
Destination charge: $1,985
Price as driven: $38,350
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- Deanne with the Equinox on a brisk fall afternoon as we were out enjoying the new version of the small SUV.
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- Front view of a 2025 Chevrolet Equinox Activ in Cacti Green with Summit White roof.
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- View of the front cabin in a 2025 Chevrolet Equinox Activ with Maple Sugar and black interior.
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- Rear view of a 2025 Chevrolet Equinox Activ in Cacti Green with Summit White roof.
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- View of the front cabin in a 2025 Chevrolet Equinox Activ with Maple Sugar and black interior.
