2024 Chevy Equinox EV AWD is a Family Hauler Missing Just One Thing

[@easternyellowjacket276]

I've had one for almost three months. FWD. Power level feels just fine. No need for more. The last long trip we took, the car charged to 345mi of range at 100%. Normally for day to day use we charge 40-60%. Car has been fantastic. Highly recommend.

[@Aibeansss]

Stop using oil, by using machines. You need a donkey and cart.

[@easternyellowjacket276]

@@Aibeansss Oil has many more useful purposes than burning it. Why remain ignorant?

[@davidhollenshead4892]

@@Aibeansss WTF??? Do you realize that the adoption of automobiles actually cleaned up the environment up as there was no longer manure on the streets, large amounts of methane from Equidae. While the early efficient low compression engines burning poor quality low octane fuel created a lot of pollution, it was small compared to the horse, mule & donkey poop, methane and rotting carcasses from dead horses, mules & donkeys. As often the operators of the carts, carriages & street cars powered by pack animals often would kill said pack animals when seriously injured and just leave the carcass for the municipalities or glue factories on contract to collect them and this would usually take days. As it took ropes, pulleys, block & tackle and four strong men to get the carcass onto a cart to take it to the glue factory... This is why the adoption of motor vehicles made our cities cleaner, quieter, safer and much less stinky. The things one can learn from our elders, or at least back when I was young and those elders were still alive...

[@JosephAdam-wx6ek]

@@Aibeansss You okay bro?

[@jeffer1101]

As a mainstream EV, I think this does a very good job. For the most part, it's a "regular car", which I think makes an easier transition to EVs for most people. It's also reasonably well priced, well equipped and looks good. It's not perfect (no vehicle really is), but I think this hits the mark quite well.

[@anastassiosperakis2869]

no it does not, and there is no such beast as a..."Mainstream EV".

[@angeleon197]

Thanks for adding the comment in the end about EVs being a political issue. I live in a deep, Red state and I feel people giving me the eyeball whenever I drive my Mach-E. It drives me nuts! I know why they do it, but I'd love to speak with them, like you, about the upsides of owning an EV if it's not your first car or your road-trip car. We're lucky enough that we're able to afford both and my EV is awesome to do everything around town and cheaper to fill up than my wife's SUV. She, however, doesn't drive that much because she works from home, so to fill an Expedition Max only once a month is a blessing (close to $80 every time). But the fact of the matter is, my EV gets filled up at home or at work, which is free. Thanks, as always, for your awesome reviews!

[@anastassiosperakis2869]

maybe because the Mach E is NOT an american car. It's made in MEXICO and FOrd is so GOD DAMNED STUPID, IT STILL LOSES $4 BILLION A YEAR FROM ITS EVs.

[@angeleon197]

@@anastassiosperakis2869 lol, right. I’m sure everyone out there knows that particular detail. 🤣

[@JayDee-b5u]

It's political because this weirdness is being 'forced' on people. But it's not your fault. We just have to stop listening to whoever these politicians are. They are nobodies.

[@malthumb]

@@anastassiosperakis2869Equinox EV (and Equinox ICE) and Blazer EV (and ICE) are all made in Mexico. Same plant, actually. Mexico is part of the USMCA agreement. I don’t see people giving side-eye to Equinox or Blazer ICE drivers.

[@davidhollenshead4892]

@@anastassiosperakis2869 So what??? NAFTA was good for everyone. Yes, the production of electrical wiring & products that use a lot of wiring have moved to Mexico because the plants that make it create a lot of very bad odors. The air pollution isn't that bad, but the smell is a big problem, which is why these plants are built in areas that few if any residential areas nearby, like parts of Mexico that are a barren wasteland due to the lack of ground & surface water... The same reason that MAGA Motors has moved some of their production to Nevada & Texas. But Mr. Musk treats his employees like $hit, doesn't care about the major pollution his business creates and is trying to avoid union organization at all costs as he only cares about making money...

[@ivanguerini995]

Great Job GM

[@BryceLovesTech]

Another great high-quality review. Your production is amazing. You deserve millions and millions of subscribers. And I agree with you about electric vehicles my Tesla has 190,000 miles. It’s the best car I’ve ever owned. Still on this original battery.

[@davidhollenshead4892]

There are better EV's than MAGA Motors products and besides GM won't charge Ferari like service costs like MAGA Motors does... Note: if you are told that you need a new battery pack because the plastic coolant pipe was damaged seek an independent shop as it really is a $180 fix not a $18,000 fix...

[@frankcoffey]

The gas Equinox is only 175hp and unlike years past there is no engine upgrade. So if you want more than that in an Equinox the EV is the only way to get it. So the EV version is more power and tech for a lower costs than the gas version. That seems like value to me.

[@davidhollenshead4892]

Uh, you are comparing apples to oranges. And the hp ratings are never accurate as American Car Companies under rate them to avoid the insurance industry from charging more... While you can increase the output of any internal combustion engine, I wouldn't bother. Besides, if the range is adequate for you & you can charge it at home, the EV is a better buy. As for major service costs, while you will have to replace the traction battery over 15 years of ownership that is cheaper than servicing an automatic transmission, emission control system and internal combustion engine...

[@michaelgarvin8621]

Great information and good reviews 👍👍. Keep up the great work Tom!👍🙂

[@larryrobinson6382]

Excellent review! I also appreciated how you muted the "G" word when demonstrating that system. As an owner of a 3LT, AWD, I've also used the Google system to activate several other car features (i.e. controlling A/C temperature, turning on seat fan & steering wheel heater, etc.), so, I've found multiple uses - especially when I didn't want to take my eyes off the road to search for the right buttons.

[@steveallwine1443]

Always love a quick mention about how plush the Ariya is to drive. Glad to hear Chevy is aiming for a comfortable ride in the Equinox.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Ariya is luxury car grade comfort. I prefer the overall dynamic of the Chevy with less roll and dive. But that's me.

[@anastassiosperakis2869]

you are hilarious, none of these breadvans can even SPELL "plush". They are cheap, ugly econoboxes.

[@billybobbob3003]

@@DrivenCarReviews my 2014 honda crv lx fwd has 474 miles of range evs have a longway to go lol. MSRP $23,120 in 2014 = $30,431.23 in 2024 wheres 30k 450+ mile range evs? lol. by the way evs require oil changes in each electric motor.

[@darrellwitt2093]

@@anastassiosperakis2869

[@irenecheca6575]

​@billybobbob3003 no, they do not require oil changes, false

[@FrunkensteinVonZipperneck]

My name is FRUNKenstein! But my revivifier bought the 1LT in Nova Scotia. We love it!! 2000 km in 10 days...

[@jstep4146]

I bought one a few weeks ago. Love it. It is INCREDIBLY fast and responsive. Far quicker than an ICE on accel. A little strange around fast corners until you get used to it, as instead of leaning, it pushes out lower... hard to explain but it is because of the lower weight positioning. A few misses are the tiny lettering on the cruise switches, and glare from the texture on the dash when the sun is 30-50 degress up ahead. VERY cheap to drive. Drivers manual is cluttered as hell, usual warnings making it hard to find anything. Minor software misses but those will probably be fixed soon.

[@davidhollenshead4892]

You can use a "dash cover" and piece of black poster board to address the glare issue. Most cars have it, but it really an easy fix...

[@Andre-cj3ec]

I own a 3LT and like it a lot. Great review overall. As someone else mentioned, you can get heated rear seats. Also, I doubt anyone has ever charged this car 10% to 80% in 30 min. The low pack voltage and other limitations won't allow it. Great car overall, but not the best quick charging EV for frequent long road trips. I charge at home and my usage is mostly urban, so I don't mind a few extra minutes a few times a year

[@eddstarr2185]

Thank you, Tom, for another excellent presentation. While the Chevrolet Equinox looks like an overall winner, that Cadillac Optiq - I think it has my name on it!

[@DrivenCarReviews]

It’s not significantly more expensive and the cabin looks much more spendy.

[@chrismaxny4066]

To get the Drive Clean NY rebate of $2000 your Equinox will have to cost $41900 or less. I was going to get an Equinox but bought a used 23 VW Pro S AWD with 961 miles for $29,395 the equivalent Equinox with similar options comes in at about $50,000. The VW has a max fast charge rate of 175 kw the Equinox 150 kw. Put 6000 miles on it and no problems at all. There are now a lot of really good used high end EVs on lots with low mileage.

[@ganthc]

I like the design of the Equinox. The humming sound is very irritating. They had that on the Blazer EV too. It's fine if it's on the outside, but if you can hear it in the cabin, that's no good. Lack of Apple CarPlay is going to cost them sales, considering they offer it in the Cadillac EV (plus all their ICE vehicles). Which I don't get why they did that if they could just offer both. But otherwise, I really think this is the a great EV. The range is awesome. It now can charge on the Tesla network. Great review, Tom! I also like the added lore for the Evil Twin: he's the infamous Florida Man.

[@irenecheca6575]

Not in all the Tesla network, in about a third of it, no v1 superchargers are being made compatible to any other brand, not a single one of those

[@DrivenCarReviews]

FYI, Cadillac is ditching CarPlay as well.

[@ganthc]

@@DrivenCarReviews which is sad, because Cadillac showed it was possible and was removed not for the “safety reasons” GM used as the excuse. I ended up getting a great deal on a used 2023 Ford Mach E Premium. I’ve been really enjoying it. But the Equinox was in my price range and in consideration.

[@tkmedia3866]

@@irenecheca6575there is only a handful of v1/v1.5 superchargers left they are very very uncommon.

[@normt430]

The Lyriq PWS is so loud I can heat one pull up to me at a stop light...in my 2018 Cadillac CT6!

[@LOLINC2010]

This looks like the perfect EV for me! Plenty of power (why do we all have to race each other 0 to 60 anyway?) And the price is amazing!

[@TheEricleegreen]

Agreed. The 1LT doesn't have the heated seats and steering wheel, which is a bummer because that's *so* cozy on a winter's day, but even without a subsidy the price is competitive with any other SUV on the market, gas OR electric.

[@coreygrua3271]

Smart seniors often have more valuable things to say than hip youngers. This video has practical information for me to make my choice.

[@Shawn_M]

Solid EV in every way. A performance version could be very interesting

[@TheCrc0427]

Just got one, picking up today! The 150kw fast charge is a game changer for us. We currently have a bolt euv 2023 that’s 50. So 3x faster on long trips! Ours will be a 2025 and does have rear heated seats and wireless phone charger.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Yes Tom, The one thing it is missing is the made in Canada label that used to appear on every Equinox .

[@malthumb]

Both the Equinox EV and Equinox ICE are made in the Ramos Ariszpe plant in Mexico. The Ingersoll, Canada plant that used to make Equinox is now the home of GM’s BrightDrop commercial van EVs.

[@rightlanehog3151]

@@malthumb Yes indeed.

[@markmasi5219]

Another excellent Driven review.

[@EddieDexterStewart]

I had to call an Uber driver and the car they had was an EV. She said her fuel bill used to be $261.00 every two weeks driving an ICE vehicle. Going EV she's seen her fuel bill cut in half.

[@OneDullMan]

Sadly, too many EVs seem to be judged on their 0 - 60 time and whether they have Apple Auto.

[@gveresUW]

0-60 time has to be "good enough" when you need it to deal certain situations on the highway. Apple CarPlay... well, if two cars are virtually identical, I am going to pick Apple Car play every time. In fact, for me, I wouldn't touch this one because it doesn't have Apple Car Play. I don't understand why manufacturers don't add it (and Android Auto) to all cars. Or, if cost is really the issue, then add it as an option so that I can add option it into my build. I am not going to buy a new car without it these days.

[@937553]

I'm starting to see them everyday here in Quebec.

[@brevenconrad]

The black looks so nice though!

[@samy4288]

It's sad that we don't get it here in Australia!

[@JarmelSingsKaraoke]

Happy Tuesday

[@BrandonG8Man]

No…it’s not OK to not have CarPlay. It’s a data grab by GM. Pure and simple. More choice is always better.

[@malthumb]

It’s a data grab by GM. But it’s also trying to PREVENT a data grab by Apple. Next gen CarPlay intends to offer reconfigurable IP functionality. That requires that OEMs give Apple access to the OBD ports which would then provide Apple with access to all the vehicle’s operating data (charge time, charge rates, speed, traction systems engaged, et cetera) GM simply said “Nope..not doing that” Keep in mind that at the time that all of this was being negotiated, Apple was in development with their own EV. Would’ve been nice to have operating data from every one else’s EVs while doing that.

[@oleksandrgolovatyi8447]

I wont lease it with no car play. No matter what explanation they have. They put my habits and convenience behind their corporate interest. Easy as is

[@davidhollenshead4892]

GM found that CarPlay and other infotainment systems are a significant cause of accidents. So despite that it might co$t them sales, they made the ethical choice anyway...

[@jazzjokesjalopies]

Thanks Tom and Martin. I agree with your review, which of course you’ll be relieved to know. 😊 I wonder how the government rebate works for retirees with not much income anyway. I’ve read that it doesn’t provide much benefit?

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Different for everyone. Most people qualify, other than wealthy folks.

[@cypvh74]

You should be able to use to the point of sale option. Not all dealerships are qualified to offer it, so you will have to ask.

[@phillipray2158]

The Equinox does have rear seat heating, just not in 2RS/LT trim

[@23billd]

I learned a long time ago...(remember the infamous GM "X" car?...) Never buy a newly designed car the first year out. Sorry GM, I don't trust you. You fooled me once.

[@anastassiosperakis2869]

wisely said. EVEN BETTER, after I bought a new GM vehicle when I was young and naive, I NEVER AGAIN BOUGHT ONE< NEW OR USED.

[@instasingingvids3529]

Very wise. Even Toyota has had trouble with the new Tundra. Seems wise even on manufacturers that have a good track record.

[@cheapme1850]

Have to agree with you but I feel that way about any brand. My favorite (relatively) affordable cars are the Blazer EV and the Trax, but I’ll wait a few years before getting a used one. I also like the Lyriq which has been out longer (and has CarPlay) but I’ll still wait for the early adopters to be the guinea pigs.

[@kristy77a]

Yup, always wait a year at least.

[@normt430]

​@@instasingingvids3529the new Tacoma and Tundra are a hot mess in quality issues and recalls. Which proves even Toyota can't release a trouble free car today!

[@allencrider]

Seems like a pretty good car. The EPA MPGe is 117/99/108. SUV's aren't very slippery. I bought a used Tesla Model 3 Long Range in July and I got 147 MPGe in August and 143 in September. So as long as I drive like an old man, it won't cost me!

[@DavinFelthHerat]

I had already taken the Chevy Equinox off my list because of Apple Car Play. I'm glad I watched your video, I didn't realize Waze was an option for the built in system (unlike Tesla). Honestly, that's the major reason I want Car Play, so I think I could live with that. I see Spotify on the screen in your video, I'm curious if Audible can be installed as well.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

I think Audible is in the Google Play store. However, not sure it syncs with where you left off if you start with your phone then move to the car (and vice versa).

[@jbrei713]

Gm will probably pull carplay and android auto from all vehicles going forward I actually use aa

[@ChowDownDetroit]

I have the blazer EV and the Waze app for this EV is unusable. It’s very slow. I mainly just use the Google maps

[@davidhollenshead4892]

GM found that CarPlay and other infotainment systems are a significant cause of accidents. So despite that it might co$t them sales, they made the ethical choice anyway... Beside, you can still use your tablet or smart phone with their audio systems...

[@sprockkets]

​@davidhollenshead4892 well that's not a good reason because the gm setup is basically android auto built in. If it is because aa from a phone craps out, that's different.

[@haze1123]

I think GM did a good job here. The Chevy EV looks better than the Cadillac, I think. I'm starting to see these on the road. In terms of subscription services, I don't want to be forced to subscribe to anything in my car.

[@RobOfTheVoid]

5:34 ok that sound is awesome lol

[@lucastaneda2335]

Free Tom Voelk!

[@MechayaAlta]

For a frugal shopper, a CPO lease return EV is a great value in todays market. For a road tripper, Tesla supercharger system is still the best in today’s market. The location of charger ports in non Tesla EVs may be a challenge in using the Tesla superchargers. We have a 2022 Nissan Leaf as our city car and a 2023 Subaru Outback for road trips. Both cars have Apple car play.

[@mowcowbell]

The lack of Android Auto shouldn't be a deal breaker. I thought the same thing when I bought my '24 Tesla Model Y, but after using the infotainment in the Tesla, I don't miss Android Auto at all.

[@OnWisconsin33]

I've had the same car for 10 months and Premium Connectivity for $99 per year is great, especially since I have a 5GB Mint Mobile plan for $15 per month and Premium Connectivity receives the streaming services and replaces Google Maps that blew through my data cap when I owned a Bolt EV and then a Bolt EUV. Note that navigation is free for 8 years and doesn't require Premium Connectivity, unless you want real-time traffic. I've considered the Equinox EV, but I've done 3 round trips from the Texas Gulf to western Wisconsin since August and, although the EEV can now use Superchargers, they do so with an adapter and at a slower rate. The ease of backing into a space and popping in a perfectly fitting NACS wand sure beats my experience with "Electrocute" America on long trips. And, unless I want an RS with cloth seats, I'd have to look at that ghastly blue plastic dash when I drive. What crazy engineer came up with THAT color for a dashboard?

[@davidhollenshead4892]

GM found that CarPlay and other infotainment systems are a significant cause of accidents. So despite that it might co$t them sales, they made the ethical choice anyway... Enjoy your crappy EV from MAGA Motors and the high price for parts & service...

[@jkmsaturn]

Is Evil Twin facing a Felony in Florida? He's probably the Apple CarPlay hacker 🤣

[@scotthucks7966]

Correction, the 3lt model comes with heated rear seats!

[@barryw9473]

The more BEV models go on sale, the better to get people out of ICE and experience the power, silence, land ow running costs.

[@davidhollenshead4892]

As long as you drive enough to make it worthwhile...

[@Anhedonis]

If there are two Equinoxes, one should be Vernal, the other should be Autumnal.

[@Nebula1701]

Also long pressing the Phone Call button on the steering wheel will call up Siri from your phone.

[@eganfo]

That’s a handy feature available on most cars that most drivers don’t know about.

[@malthumb]

We do this with our Tesla and our Equinox EV 2RS

[@godofdun]

My wife and I have a Polestar 2. Very similar software package to this (both Android based) and never had a problem with no carplay even though she's fully in that ecosystem. Polestar did add it at some point, but she hasn't bothered.

[@normt430]

Polestar X2!

[@overcaffeinatedengineering]

FYI, GM's use of the term preconditioning is a misnomer. They use it to mean cabin preconditioning (aka AC), not battery preconditioning

[@MythosGandaar]

I don’t think it’s appropriate for GM to remove CarPlay and replace it with a system that costs the owner additional money after 8 years. CarPlay is included with the cost of my smartphone for as long as I want to own the vehicle (hint: longer than 8 years)

[@rossm9200]

You can precondition the battery for fast charging. Also, Chevy has always done battery preconditioning at the same time as cabin preconditioning. They don't dump a ton of power into the battery, but it will absolutely dump some energy into conditioning the battery.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

There’s preconditioning for both cabin and charging. My visual on that was sort of off.

[@davidhollenshead4892]

@@MythosGandaar GM found that CarPlay and other infotainment systems are a significant cause of accidents. So despite that it might co$t them sales, they made the ethical choice anyway...

[@Snafu2346]

Even with the regenerative pedal off, it isn't fully off. I keep my blazer EV regen brake on "off" and when I do it still shows energy feeding back in. Its not like on the EV6 when regen pedal "off" means it'll coast forever. Its more like off = Less like a normal car engine braking (like level 1 on ev6/ioniq5) low = car will stop (like level 2 on ev6) high = car hits its brakes hard, and feels like I'm using the "paddle brake" its more aggressive than lvl 4 on the EV6. usually on "off" when I left off the throttle, it shows as much as +20kw feeding back into the battery.

[@OffTom5783]

I really love the design, except for the door handles, I don't like those door handles that every new car have now...

[@alexmobil7463]

Yes is absolutely true EV s are unfortunately a political issue nowadays and If you re on the Trumpy side of life then EVs should and have to be banded from our life that kind of progress is simply radical left and an obstacle to make America great again. For my humble opinion this Equinox looks realy nice and is great to see that GM can still build competitive cars! Great review Tom as always.

[@anastassiosperakis2869]

you are a total effing moron, thats why you vote Dem so they take MY Money and give it to you moron. IN FACT I AM A STRONG TESLA EV ADMIRER and MUSK IS A TRUMP SUPPORTER 100% oFFicIALLY ENDORSED. I WILL RATHER DIE THAN VOTE FOR THE CACKLING IMBECILE. GROW A BRAIN.

[@ilovecats748]

$2700 plus a subscription cost for self driving or they take it away from you holy crap chevy cranking up consumer hostility to a 10

[@davidhollenshead4892]

You really don't want their self driving, or anyone's, particularly "Full Self Crashing" from MAGA Motors...

[@ronniemullis8717]

I am not a Tree hugger from a red state and I want an EV.

[@joecushman6030]

Does it have over the air updates?

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Yes

[@JohnnyChronic18]

I love mine I am so happy I took my time and chose the Equinox ev awd 3rs. Kias/Hyundais were also nice but I felt the fast charging was the main reason to go with them and I wouldn't be using that much. Love it could never go back to a gas car. Even with the 21" rims I got 440km mostly highway and some battery left.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Thanks for sharing!

[@tommihelich2613]

News that GM is ditching their Ultium platform is disconcerting. Then there are the smaller irritations like no physical light switch or trouble easily texting hands free while driving. Or the inevitable 20% range drop in the winter. No spare….of course actually changing one of those monsters would send most of us to the chiropractor. Thanks for your usual informative review Tom.

[@mononeo]

They aren't "ditching their Ultium platform," they are no longer going to use the name Ultium. It's just going to be another GM EV platform instead of branded separate from GM.

[@tommihelich2613]

@@mononeookaaaay you’re correct and not. Yes they’re dropping the name but it was originally tied to one type of cell within the platform. Now they’ve realized that one configuration doesn’t fit every vehicle so they are starting over. Again. Looks to me like they’re going Toyota’s route with an array of battery choices.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

GM always talked about new battery chemistries, and how new ones would be able to slot in as replacement modules if one went bad in this generation of pack. It’s what the wireless network does so well. Dropping Ultium is largely branding.

[@barryw9473]

@@mononeothey are probably ditching the Ultium concept of using same module in all packs, and adding other chemistries and cell suppliers. Essentially ditching Ultium as a single strategy because it has major flaws.

[@barryw9473]

@@DrivenCarReviewsTom, I suspect new cell suppliers are going to be used (or maybe GM already announced this?), so Ultium brand(colab with LG) can’t be used due to contracts and potential egg on face.

[@Mojo522]

Hey Tom, Speaking of GM EVs, do you still drive the Cadillac ELR? If so, how do you feel it's holding up? Thanks for your time and the videos. I hope you're having a good day. Tell Martin I said, "Hi."

[@DrivenCarReviews]

I do have the ELR, you can see it poking out of the garage in the charging section. The HVAC needed fixing, $1,300. Needed a full coolant flush this summer. Other than that, it’s been a great car.

[@Mojo522]

@@DrivenCarReviews Thank you so much! I'm in the used car market for my first EV, and I really like the look of the ELR.

[@garypippenger202]

We will see about reliability, over time. I am glad to see a GM EV looking so good so far. The industry needs to work on dependability and ease of repairs. Also, increased insurance costs and tire wear are concerns.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Volt, ELR and Bolt all get high marks. So there's that.

[@davidhollenshead4892]

@@DrivenCarReviews Because GM's EV's are the best in the market. Japanese, German cars & MAGA Motors are overrated. They all cost significantly more for parts & service...

[@Skyhawk1480]

@@DrivenCarReviews We're loving our 2023 Bolt EUV Premier, and because it's a rural commuter (180 km/day), the slow DC fast charging isn't a factor. I am disappointed with the loss of Android Auto though in their new models like the Equinox. It's pretty much a deal breaker for me because we don't ever want to pay for yet another monthly connectivity subscription. I suppose if the Google interface they use supports internet via my phone's connectivity, it would be better. It's not clear to me that they support it though. If they don't, I won't even consider a GM in the future. Sorry?

[@gizmoe70]

Thank you for muting the 'Hey Google' audio 😂

[@nednewh8913]

Is the regen paddle variable or fixed pressure?

[@DrivenCarReviews]

It felt fixed to me. I tried squeezing it harder to get more resistance but it felt linear (unlike Lyriq).

[@nednewh8913]

@@DrivenCarReviews Variable makes so much more sense. Then again, I bet far too many people don't understand how to fully utilize this to allow your brakes to last forever and squeeze every bit back into the battery. For my first PHEV (now full EV driver), my mechanic told me that with 65,000 while my pads were 50%, he wanted me to change it out because my rotors were scored with 6 years of use. I refused and sold it fine the next year! Ha!

[@russhorii6290]

Hey, Tom. Thanks for another great review. Curious about why you prefer Apple Maps over Google. I’m in the Apple camp but my wife is a huge Google Maps user. Thanks!

[@Mamo878]

'Great for a family.' If that family happens to own their own home, with a garage, where they can install a home charger and charge it overnight at reasonable electric rates. That is. Then it's a fantastic choice.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

There are millions of families just like that in the US.

[@TheRealLaughingGravy]

How many families have a gas pump at home? Does that stop them from owning an ICE car?

[@Mamo878]

@@TheRealLaughingGravy OMG You have no clue. Whatsoever. What are you, four years old? I'll spell it out anyway since your mommy hasn't told you yet. Gas stations are *EVERYWHERE* and have been for many many decades and it only takes a few minutes to fill up. EV chargers are _not_ everywhere and it takes far far longer to charge an EV than to fill up an ICE car. Duh. Now get to bed, it's long past your bed time.

[@TheEricleegreen]

@@Mamo878 All new gas stations in California are required to have EV charging stations too. But true, it takes longer to charge an EV than to fill up an ICE car, about 30 minutes for EV vs 5 minutes for ICE. That's going to be a problem until we have faster charging battery chemistries.

[@Mamo878]

@@TheEricleegreen New gas stations are very rare. Most are "old" legacy stations. It will still be quite a while until fully _working_ and reasonably priced (match or beat overnight home charging rates) EV charging stations are ubiquitous.

[@markwellington1254]

I love my Nissan Ariya but the Blazer is a good looking EV!

[@76carmel]

When will you test the ICE (conventional) Equinox?

[@DrivenCarReviews]

As soon as one hits the press fleet in Seattle.

[@Dancencamp]

When driving in the Equinox EV, does Google maps show the speed limits where you are located?

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Wasn't something I was paying attention to but I'd be surprised if it didn't.

[@rustyjunkgarage1418]

It also has traffic sign recognition

[@Nebula1701]

Equinox EV does have rear heated seats but you need to move up to the 3RS or 3LT for 2024 Model Year. For 2025 you need to get the Convenience Package II.

[@FRWD_FXLRST]

Also, the car manufacturers going all Google in the US doesn’t make sense, iPhone makes up 59% of the market.

[@davidhollenshead4892]

GM found that CarPlay and other infotainment systems are a significant cause of accidents. So despite that it might co$t them sales, they made the ethical choice anyway...

[@rvdown11]

I have a 2023 Bolt EUV Premier and I have been dying to drive an Equinox EV. I finally did today and I was totally underwhelmed. I was envious of the aesthetic, 100kW charging, AWD option, and the trunk but otherwise the Bolt EUV was a far superior offering. Equinox EV feels underpowered coming from the Bolt. The Bolt is not a quick EV but it feels as quick as it's supposed to be for what you got it for. Equinox feels like compromise on the power front. It also has all these weird things that are supposed to be improvements (lack of power button, pop out door handles, rumbling seats) that I just didn't really feel like I wanted. I also am a big advocate of Apple CarPlay. I don't always use it, but when I do use it, it's great to have. I decided to give the new Google platform the benefit of the doubt and it's the same polished turd we've come to expect from native infotainment. The screens got bigger but feels less crisp and sharp. The interface got clunkier and worse as there are more menus and sub-menus. I tried the Sirius XM and there are these huge album art graphics that are blurry because the resolution is too low. Just the type of unfinished stuff you come to expect from native auto tech. It's really just a cash grab and there is no reason consumers should have to settle for it. Equinox EV is a fine car but it's not the Bolt upgrade I was hoping for. At this point I don't have high hopes for the 2025 Bolt either. It's clear that the previous Bolt was just too good an offering and GM had to pump the brakes on it because the profit margins weren't as high as they wanted.

[@davidhollenshead4892]

GM found that CarPlay and other infotainment systems are a significant cause of accidents. So despite that it might co$t them sales, they made the ethical choice anyway... The Bolt & new Bolt will continue to be GM's inexpensive commuter EV's...

[@rvdown11]

@@davidhollenshead4892 oh please. No one believes that. If that were the case they would dump CarPlay in their gas vehicles too but they don’t because they know it would eviscerate any sales for rental car use.

[@danno180]

3RS has heated rear seats FYI as well as power passenger and ventilation for the front seats.

[@santiagohills3997]

Wondering if GMC could put a burlier face on this and make something to go up against the Rivian R2, which looks to have almost identical specs as the Equinox/Optiq. I wish Rivian well but they better come with something magical in 2026 because everyone else isn’t standing still.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

If it isn't, it's leaving money on the table. But it might go upmarket with a smaller "Hummer EV H3".

[@OfficalGordoTurtle]

It’s sad I wish they would sell a variant that charges 350kw peak. I charge at home but I also public charge. When less than 50% the ioniq 5 peaks 250kw . That is a big difference and also has the capability to charge even faster. I prefer that freedom. It keeps the technology able to keep up with changing standards and new charging technologies. Almost a good execution. Really fell short with one of the most important aspects of owning an electric vehicle.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

The more I travel and DCFC, the more I find 150-180 is fast enough for me. That's a personal thing, but by the time I grab a snack, hit the head, and return a few emails (stuff I need to do anyways) I find I'm hogging up a terminal since I'm well over 80%. Do I want faster? Yeah, it would be great to snag 300 miles of range in 5 minutes. But that's years away if not a decade.

[@OfficalGordoTurtle]

As a full time traveler for work and for leisure it is not enough. These can be a major work horse for travelers with faster charging capabilities. people are not pressuring american auto companies so they are going with the minimum at the price of premium. It is a major problem in the industry. I think it is fair to say i am not ok with being the last one to leave the charger station. To say it is far away is absurd. I am saying allow the cars to be capable of the faster charging speeds it is something that can be done today.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

@@OfficalGordoTurtle I'm curious how many buyers are full time travelers like yourself. Probably not many. Also, any automaker that could speed up charging or deliver a profitable 400 mile EV for under $35K would execute that product yesterday. It would be a huge crown jewel.

[@TheRealLaughingGravy]

@@OfficalGordoTurtle I guess this is not the car for you, then, but it suits a lot of other people fine.

[@davidhollenshead4892]

@@DrivenCarReviews The faster you charge EV batteries the shorter the lifespan of them...

[@OnWisconsin33]

Does the navigation route to charging stations based on remaining miles, most efficient use of time and, not only how busy currently, but also how many OTHER Equinoxes are routing to the same charging station? I bet you can guess what "more affordable" EV can do that!!!

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Does it know about all the Fords, GMs and other brands that are routed to the stations too? Doubtful. And that's going to make a big impact now that the SC network is open to many more brands.

[@dennisfeit4461]

No rain sensing wipers - right?

[@dennis12345]

No CarPlay or android auto? I want m Waze navigation

[@Nebula1701]

Waze app is available to install natively in the vehicle. It works great.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

What Nebula said. Waze can be downloaded from the Google Play store and run natively on the screen.

[@davidhollenshead4892]

GM found that CarPlay and other infotainment systems are a significant cause of accidents. So despite that it might co$t them sales, they made the ethical choice anyway...

[@timgurr1876]

Good to know I can get seven, 12 pack TP’s in the car. So refreshing………..😅 I wonder if I only fill my gas tank to 80% if the gas tank will last longer?

[@Andre-cj3ec]

Will it sell? In Canada, it was the best selling EV in August, edging out the Tesla Model 3. In Q3 it outsold every GM vehicle in Canada except for GMC Sierra and ICE Silverado. On this side of the border, especially in Quebec, they are selling like hotcakes...

[@DrAppalling]

No CarPlay no buy! I’m not getting a Tesla or Rivian either.

[@zoner__]

Tesla? LOL garbage

[@davidhollenshead4892]

GM found that CarPlay and other infotainment systems are a significant cause of accidents. So despite that it might co$t them sales, they made the ethical choice anyway... So enjoy your over price & crappy EV from MAGA Motors...

[@zoner__]

@ a they substituted their own infotainment which causes accidents. Nice try.

[@doxydoxdelamanca9902]

It should not have that option of going to %85 charge. That should be built in; sort of like a dummio feature. I just don't think people should be left to make those decisions. And a fee after three years for supercruise? Why?

[@minkcreeksyncros]

EVs are not just quiet and refined. There’s no turbo lag, no downshifting, no upshifting, you don’t lose 20% of your power when you turn the air conditioning on. They are superior in almost every way.

[@agaragar21]

And if using renewable energy...it could prevent the catastrophic warming of the Earth !

[@davidhollenshead4892]

Uh, EV's make sense for people who drive a lot. But when EV owners tell me that I should buy an EV when I currently drive about 3,500 miles per year, and take long trips as well, that makes no sense for the environment or my finances...

[@johnmack537]

The death of adverbs… “quick” kills off “quickly”.

[@Molishious]

I may give this a look when the 2025 comes to my local dealership. I want all the bells and whistles with my next car and the 2025 can be more fully loaded and gets a small boost in horsepower to 300. It will also be available with a heads up display and a wireless phone charger. I wonder if people really value the 21 inch wheels over range. I'd much rather see a range of 300 miles than 21 inch tires on my car. I think he's wrong about the 8 years, I think that is only for the maps, the rest of the system is only for 3 years. Not a problem if you are leasing but could be annoying to pay for another subscription to keep your car going. I like the idea of the car not needing to connect to the phone so there is an advantage to this Google system, but I'd rather have the choice of using Carplay as I've had it since 2014 and have always liked it. For those who want to be able to choose and want a little more space there is the Honda Prologue which is essentially the same guts as a Blazer, but a nicer skin, in my opinion.

[@TheRealLaughingGravy]

I find it really annoying that straight information about how long Chevy's subscriptions run, for what features, and at what cost, is so difficult to come by. The website is useless in that regard, and I have no faith in what a dealer might tell me. It's the main reason I'm not absolutely sold on the Equinox EV.

[@jbrei713]

3 years free than 25.00 a month super cruise has additional subscription it gm money pit

[@SynthToshi]

if only the price was more "affordable."

[@davidhollenshead4892]

Order the base model then...

[@SynthToshi]

@@davidhollenshead4892 no, just waiting for a reasonable car to hit the markets like BYD.

[@tom_hoots]

Hang on, give me a few hours, and I'll stop rolling my eyes. Believe it or not, Tom, somewhere over half of the human beings on this planet (that can afford to purchase private motor vehicles) DO NOT USE APPLE PRODUCTS. Geez, Louise. I'll wander away grumbling about "drinking that koolaid..........."

[@ronaldboykin9755]

My Tesla model 3 doesn’t have Apple car play either so I added it as a 3rd party mod from a Tesla User Club member who has a business that does Tesla mods!!

[@harveylin3548]

Not charging a lot for auto driving is a good plan.

[@JoeL-zx2tl]

Would not touch this car with a 10 foot pole. I put it right alongside a Tesla or Rivian. Great video Tom.

[@davidhollenshead4892]

The Rivian & MAGA Motors have very high costs for parts and service. GM has never gouged their customers like that...

[@tbracelin0016]

I was on a waitlist for one of these, then the announcement on removing CarPlay came. So I bought something else. Absolute deal-breaker.

[@williamerazo3921]

Get the Honda Prologue. It’s basically a GM

[@DrAppalling]

Yep - No CarPlay then it’s off my list.

[@davidhollenshead4892]

@@williamerazo3921 If you want to pay Honda prices for parts and service, which are much higher, then go for it...

[@davidhollenshead4892]

GM found that CarPlay and other infotainment systems are a significant cause of accidents. So despite that it might co$t them sales, they made the ethical choice anyway...

[@davidhollenshead4892]

@@williamerazo3921 But with at least double the cost for parts & service...

[@pharm30]

Never used car play so no need for it 🤷🏼‍♂️.

[@joannbarna8235]

What model yr of the equinox ev will have the CCA charge port ?

[@acchaladka]

So then, what EVs are best packaged and hold the most family stuff? I'm thinking family camping+ ski trips, for under $100k please!

[@DrivenCarReviews]

EV9 is pretty good. Lyriq has a lot of room but just 2 rows.

[@acchaladka]

@DrivenCarReviews thank you Tom. I've been watching for years from here in Québec, bought an Abarth 124 partly on your advice, and appreciate your work and response!

[@davidhollenshead4892]

@@DrivenCarReviews Kia cars are good but not as durable as GM's...

[@davidhollenshead4892]

I would consider getting a nice gasoline power camper van used, and buy an EV for everything else. Keep in mind that the cost for parts & service on imports is higher and I say that as a former import mechanic and by owning a 1991 Vanagon Westy that I have had since it was new. [stay away from VW's never camper vans as GTRV's Westy is based on Ford Econolines which are better...

[@denault3985]

GM is improving, still not interested in buying an EV until they charge like ICE vehicles (minutes) instead of 30 to 60 minutes on road-trips. Another problem are lithium batteries fires, my evil twin (actual) demonstrated with a model airplane version. Very intense!

[@TheRealLaughingGravy]

ICE vehicles are more likely to catch fire than EVs, just so you know.

[@davidhollenshead4892]

You don't really don't want a 39 minute charge as the faster you charge an EV the shorter the lifespan of the batteries. Just keep your old ICE car for road trips or rent one if driving an EV as your daily car makes more sense...

[@paul5683]

I just don't understand the big interest in a frunk. To me it's a waste of time. Open the door, try to find the hood release in the drivers footwell, give it a pull , walk around to the front end realize that you should have given the lever a double pull, open the hood, find the prop rod if it doesn't stay up on its own. Compared to using the tailgate, push the button and the lift gate opens, push the button again it closes.

[@davidhollenshead4892]

Not to mention that if you use the frunk on a MAGA Motors car you will see that your luggage gets wet and the Frunk will get moldy over time as they all leak badly...

[@RussellFineArt]

I test drove the Equinox EV, it was nice but, GM needs to make a few changes before they're see mass adoption as we WANT a frunk, even tiny. We want a large sunroof, and the HUD is a complete waste of money and time, just go with the center screen, and lose the ugly, chrome air vent things, and make it a bit faster. I own 2 Tesla Model Y's, love them but the Equinox EV was a bit more roomy, nice, and felt more solid, so GM is super close to getting it right.

[@davids1816]

The one thing that Tesla does better with regard to CarPlay is that the actual apps like Music and Podcasts are native in the Tesla OS.

[@JackOfHearts42]

I prefer a car without Apple Car Play, ebcause then they have to design a better infortainment system

[@davidhollenshead4892]

GM found that CarPlay and other infotainment systems are a significant cause of accidents. So despite that it might co$t them sales, they made the ethical choice anyway...

[@kamcg1049]

For the avoidance of doubt, no Apple CarPlay won't even consider the vehicle. Manufacturers should support both Android and CarPlay in all their vehicles. It's none negotiable.

[@mowcowbell]

Been driving a Tesla Model Y for 6 months. Their infotainment is so good, you don't miss Android Auto or Apple Carplay.

[@colingoldthorpe5918]

@@mowcowbellI had a Model Y for 3 weeks as a rental car. The charging network was great, yes the car was fast. But the build quality was just miserable. I had wanted to love the model Y but after 3 weeks I was glad to drop it off at Avis.

[@kamcg1049]

@@mowcowbellNothing wrong with a manufacturer adding more options, just don’t limit my choices. There is a danger a manufacturer removes the likes of Android Auto or CarePlay because they are being paid by a vendor….. That’s in their interests not the consumers.

[@davidhollenshead4892]

GM found that CarPlay and other infotainment systems are a significant cause of accidents. So despite that it might co$t them sales, they made the ethical choice anyway...

[@davidhollenshead4892]

GM found that CarPlay and other infotainment systems are a significant cause of accidents. So despite that it might co$t them sales, they made the ethical choice anyway...

[@JarmelSingsKaraoke]

I don't like the new trend of rims going forward on one side of the car and backwards on the other ...

[@cypvh74]

Lack of CarPlay is a turn off for sure.

[@davidhollenshead4892]

GM found that CarPlay and other infotainment systems are a significant cause of accidents. So despite that it might co$t them sales, they made the ethical choice anyway...

[@cypvh74]

@ that’s utter crap

[@KyleMackenzie]

2025 Equinox EV LT AWD does come with rear heated seats

[@joekavalauskas8767]

@4:48 PLEASE do not drop the article and include "the" you sound like a mindless marketing drone. I love your videos but that gets under my skin so badly. "Equinox" is not a lifestyle experience, it's a car.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

No promises…

[@glennfranzen3364]

I have a problem with my 2024 RS2 it dose not always shut down when I put it in Park and open the driver side door. I blast my music and when I open the door and it doesn’t shut down I blast the neighborhood. Most of the time it shuts off when I close the door but sometimes it will not shut down at all then you have to get back into the car put it in drive then back into park this will present the off button on the info screen and you have to manually shut it down. Chevy has no fix been to the dealer 3 times called Chevy help line no help. This does not affect the way the car performs it is a nuisance but I expect the car to work as it’s supposed to and the fact that they can’t fix it does not make me happy.

[@timgurr1876]

EV’s have become political because of the gov’t mandates. Good review, even if it sounds like an infomercial. Black is not appealing on the exterior and for me on the interior. Interior dark colors makes it really hard to find anything in the dark or even parked in a garage with the garage door open during the day. Maybe that’s because I’m a senior citizen. Seems to me that if one is spending $40K to $55K for a vehicle, one should be able to have a reasonable number of exterior and interior combinations. To much interface with the “screen”. How does one change the radio station without having an accident?

[@reaganpenner7371]

The one this this Equinox is missing is Apple car play / android auto.

[@davidhollenshead4892]

GM found that CarPlay and other infotainment systems are a significant cause of accidents. So despite that it might co$t them sales, they made the ethical choice anyway...