Is this the best value EV you can buy right now? Want 300+ miles of range for under $35,000?
The Chevy Equinox EV proves you don’t need luxury to get exceptional range, space, and everyday usability. Tested at 356 miles—far beyond its EPA estimate—this front-wheel-drive electric SUV delivers impressive efficiency, solid driving comfort, and huge value, making it one of the most affordable long-range EVs on the market today.
The Chevy Equinox EV enters the electric vehicle market with a bold promise: over 300 miles of range at a starting price of around $35,000. In a space where affordability and range rarely meet, Chevrolet positions the Equinox EV as a practical, no-nonsense option for buyers who want maximum value without chasing luxury.
Tested extensively, including a real-world EV range test and performance evaluations, the Equinox EV shows that being affordable doesn’t mean being compromised where it matters most.
Real-World Range: Beating Expectations
One of the biggest highlights of the Chevy Equinox EV is its range performance.
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EPA-rated range: 319 miles (front-wheel drive model)
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Edmunds real-world test result: 356 miles
This makes the Equinox EV the least expensive electric vehicle tested to exceed 350 miles of range, outperforming competitors like the Kia Niro EV and even surpassing the Tesla Model 3 Long Range in this specific test. GM EVs have a history of exceeding expectations in range testing, and the Equinox EV continues that trend convincingly.
Performance Testing: Adequate, Not Sporty
At the test track, the Equinox EV delivered solid—but not performance-focused—results:
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0–60 mph: 7.8 seconds
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60–0 braking distance: 121 feet
While slower than sportier EVs like the Tesla Model 3 Long Range, braking performance was strong and competitive within its segment. This reinforces the Equinox EV’s mission: efficiency and usability over outright speed.
Driving Experience: Comfortable and Quiet
On the road, the Chevy Equinox EV feels noticeably better than its gasoline counterpart.
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Smooth and quiet acceleration with no engine noise
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Excellent ride quality over bumps and on highways
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Strong sound insulation, even at highway speeds
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Front-wheel-drive setup prioritizes comfort over aggressive handling
When pushed hard, the front-wheel-drive layout and EV-focused tires reveal their limits, but this isn’t a performance SUV—and it doesn’t try to be. The Equinox EV feels most at home cruising comfortably on highways and city roads.
Interior Technology: Big Screen, Clear Trade-Offs
Inside, the Equinox EV keeps things simple but modern.
What You Get:
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Largest screen in any non-luxury vehicle
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Full Google integration, including:
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Google Maps
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Voice assistant
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Google Play Store for apps like Spotify
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What You Don’t Get:
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No Apple CarPlay
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No Android Auto
Chevrolet has chosen to rely entirely on built-in Google software for its EVs. While functional, this decision may disappoint buyers accustomed to phone mirroring. Early impressions of the system are positive, though previous GM EVs have experienced software issues, making long-term reliability something to watch.
Interior Quality: Honest, Not Luxurious
The cabin reflects the Equinox EV’s pricing philosophy.
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Black plastic surfaces throughout
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Cloth seats in the base model
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Single-zone climate control
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No heated seats or power adjustments as standard
That said, the interior feels well assembled and solidly built. Optional packages—up to $12,000—can significantly upgrade comfort with features like heated and ventilated seats, dual-zone climate control, wireless charging, and a heated steering wheel. At its base price, however, this is Chevrolet in its most straightforward form.
Passenger Space and Practicality
Despite its lower price, the Equinox EV offers impressive interior space.
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Plenty of rear legroom, even for taller passengers
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Good headroom thanks to the absence of a panoramic roof
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Rear air vents and multiple charging ports
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Comfortable enough for daily family use or ride-share passengers
Cargo Space: Surprisingly Capable
The Chevy Equinox EV delivers practical cargo capacity:
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More space than a Kia Niro EV
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Less space than a Hyundai Ioniq 5
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Large rear cargo area with underfloor storage
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Low load floor for easy loading
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Fits large suitcases and multiple carry-on bags
There’s no front trunk, and the rear seats fold manually in a 60/40 split, but the overall cargo area is well designed for everyday needs.
Pricing and Value: The Big Win
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Base price (including destination): under $35,000
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Eligible for the $7,500 federal tax credit (at the time of testing)
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Potential effective price: under $30,000
This places the Equinox EV in a very small group of vehicles offering 300+ miles of range at this price point, alongside the Tesla Model 3. Upcoming competitors exist, but they aren’t available yet.