Is the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox Activ a BETTER new compact SUV than a Toyota RAV4?

The Equinox gets a total redesign from a Chevrolet for 2025. The new Activ trim sports a 2-tone paint scheme, 17in wheels and unique front fascia. On the inside there is an upgraded interior unique to the Activ trim. Under the hood 1.5L turbocharged inline4. Is the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox Activ a BETTER new compact SUV than a Toyota RAV4?
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videography: Steven Flood 🎥

[@DarkJediChrisG-1425]

Joe, I couldn't help but notice you took a lot of heat for your Demon 170 engine video you put out. You've dealt with the heat like a champ brother, and regardless, I'll still be a loyal subscriber 👌 When the going gets tough, you get tougher, respect 💪

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Chris for having my back! You just can't please everyone and I am okay with that.

[@SnipetsofTime]

I got ur back! They should mind their own business and keep quiet 😂

[@TruckTRYBE]

We're still here regardless Joe😂

[@SPACE-IS-FAKE-777]

@@RaitisRides Stay true to yourself and post honest reviews!!!! Your real fans will support you to the end. Haters are expendable lol

[@mikejames-drummerreginacan1386]

My daughter bought a new Equinox in 2014. A very reliable vehicle and she still loves it. The new style is sharp. Thanks Joe.

[@RaitisRides]

That is so fantastic to hear Mike! Great job man!

[@GuiltyByPigmentation]

Chevy/GM been doing their thing lately making stylish vehicles they move out too!

[@RaitisRides]

You are spot on about that!

[@carlosjnunez1322]

Looks much better That's it

[@RaitisRides]

That is a big thing!

[@rafaga212]

Ventilated seats is amazing .... I saw the 200k Porshe Cayenne ehybrid doesn't have ventilated seat 😂

[@RaitisRides]

This is so very true!

[@Car_conversati0nz]

Thanks for posting Joe! Love the color!

[@RaitisRides]

You are so very welcome man!

[@dominickirkwood]

Joe and Lori and Steve keep up the good work real true and I love the video 👍

[@RaitisRides]

You are the man!

[@tomdrummy4984]

No, not better than RAV4 . I like the EV version though.

[@RaitisRides]

That is a very serious comment Tom!

[@Jack.Smith80]

💗💗💗🙏

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for tuning in Jack.

[@mickeybrumfield764]

I like the Equinox people are thinking about what should be taking the better beating on this vehicle. Good overall review of the new Equinox Active.

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you for letting me share it with you!

[@Ma89644]

Very pretended pretender😂 nothing wrong with pretender tho

[@RaitisRides]

I love what you did there!

[@Rob97234]

No problem whatsoever with the new look except the engine. Higher trim equinox’s from 2018-2021 used to get the 2.0 turbo. No reason why these new Activ trims and RS have the same tiny 1.5T as the base. Seems a bit ridiculous. Big reason why I chose a base model since everyone will get the same engine

[@ava-j9x5u]

Agreed. Since the engine is the same through all trims you can save a lot of money by going lower-middle trim.

[@RaitisRides]

You are not the first to say that!

[@RaitisRides]

Good call!

[@00_UU]

Yes. 2.0T is needed for top trims. The only way to get it is to go for Buick Envision version

[@ponchoman49]

A promising entry but there are numerous zonks to be had here. Starting with the second row seat it still doesn't recline or move for and aft like it did with the first and second generation. The lack of a premium Premier trim level is also odd as the Active trim with its faux off road intentions and loads of black plastics in no way look premium. I'm fine with them offering this trim but it doesn't belong at the top of the trim levels. Another zonk is the lack of interior color choices on most trims. Zonk 3 are the wheel choices which are mostly bland and dull. Zonk 4 is the lack of a hybrid or 2.0T engine option and zonk 5 is the lack of any audio system upgrade. Hopefully Chevy addresses some of these shortcomings on what is otherwise a nice new entry in the crowded crossover club.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for your honest thoughts on this one.

[@jmay5583]

Standard stereo is upgraded. They did the same thing for the new ev vehicles. No bose but nicer standard system (not that you've actually gone and experienced it clearly. Multiple interior color options in a cross over; Who cares and what brand does that? How do you want them to keep the price down? Why would they bring back the 2l engine? The 8 speed feels so much better to drive than the 6 speed. Again, get out of your basement and drive something first. It has a ton of low end torque and plenty of power even on the highway considering the engine. And if you compare it to a hybrid; how many km will you have to drive to save the extra money is costs to get a hybrid? This vehicle is very fuel efficient for the size, and has great bang for your buck.

[@LuisUrbieta]

Viva Chevrolet! Viva the Equinox!

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that you are happy for this one Luis!

[@LuisUrbieta]

Yes I am so happy about this one already from ladies rides and not only that I am so happy that you reviewed a new Chevy Equinox active!​@@RaitisRides

[@Dalokok]

Go Go RAITI Go, Raiti Ride of Approval

[@RaitisRides]

That is so awesome of you to say David!

[@digitaldoc100]

Needs to return of the 2.0T that would make this a lot more compelling. That 1.5T is weak sauce with AWD.

[@RaitisRides]

I think you may be right!

[@digitaldoc100]

@@RaitisRides Too bad that Chevy won't figure this out.

[@Bowhunters6go8xz6x]

This is just ok IMO but does not really impress me, engine sounded like it has a rubber band when you revv'd it up and you cannot get some of the nice options that other GM vehicles have like a HUD and Super Cruise ! The Equinox EV has the options but not the ICE engine version which is disapointing.

[@PatrickC139]

I was looking at exactly this color trim last night. On another note i think this has alot more style than the Rav4. Toyota has had such bland interiors on many of their models.

[@RaitisRides]

This is so very true Patrick!

[@BoopSnoot]

GM Marketing team, "Lets call our new EV the Chevy Equinox!" "OK, what should we call our new ICE vehicle that doesn't share a single part of even look like the Equinox?" "Lets call it the Chevy Equinox!" "Won't that be confusing?" "Yes!"

[@RaitisRides]

You crack me up!

[@G-Rated]

This doesn’t make any sense. Had they been lazy, not gone the extra mile via a bespoke EV platform for the fully electric Equinox and stuffed this significantly less aerodynamic architecture with batteries and called it an EV you would’ve criticized them. They build a bespoke Equinox EV completely different from their ICE econobox and you _still_ push the narrative that *gm* got it wrong. You can’t make this anti-gm stuff up. You people are absolutely hilarious but weird.

[@islanddon865]

Comparing it to a Rav 4 is unreasonable. Nor would l compare it to a CR-V. Whatever you pay more for those other two would be worth every penny. IMHO

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for your honest thoughts on this one.

[@DennisKrok-s6p]

No guy!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for your vote!

[@kenway103]

bots do not count as first

[@RaitisRides]

This is so very true about that.

[@medinaaquatics7572]

Excellent Review Joe 👍🏽 One of your best overall Reviews yet!!

[@johnhuber860]

Nice but not the quality of a toyota

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for your feelings on this one John!

[@davidp2888]

That's...an interesting color combo. lol

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree with you David!

[@johnnyparker2128]

Imagine this vehicle in blue with the same white top. In the U.S. Air Force on base, that would signal a commanding officer and you better be ready to salute. Chevy, ditch the white tops.

[@davonne225]

Nice color but why is the off road spec the top trim. RS should be top trim. The interior is spot on. More features than RAV4

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that you are liking this one Davonne!

[@MurseTech64]

Not in THAT configuration it's not

[@RaitisRides]

I know which one you like!

[@creepingbert]

I really like the new Equinox. I would go for the RS trim, however.

[@RaitisRides]

Sounds good to me!

[@DominionAnako-bb7ry]

Love your car video

[@RaitisRides]

You really are awesome!

[@DominionAnako-bb7ry]

@@RaitisRides Welcome

[@IdoNomb]

I bought the RS model all loaded up but with the CVT transmission 2 weeks ago for $40.3k. It's my first new vehicle ever!!!! 2 vehicle i buy. First vehicle i bought on Craigslist for $5000 in 2015 lol the RS drivers very so smooth and handles potholes very well. You don't feel them.

[@RaitisRides]

That is so great to hear!

[@TheGodofSEO]

I am blown away how much GM has stepped up with interior and exterior design at these price points. Well done.

[@asianstud7]

Yeah but is the quality there to match the japanese tho?

[@TheGodofSEO]

@@asianstud7 The “quality” of engines exploding and such or?

[@Yawman99]

I would like a LT2, or similar, that has memory seats. You can only get those in the RS and ACTIV.

[@RaitisRides]

Those days are gone.

[@TheHuester44]

Seems like a quality SUV reasonable off road capabilities.

[@kevij371]

13:22 crosstrek is sub compact suv whereas equinox is compact suv

[@SnipetsofTime]

Beautiful look and design

[@RaitisRides]

They did it some justice for sure!

[@toddhedman7959]

The engine sounds QUIET, I'd change the exterior to silver & blue

[@RaitisRides]

Sounds like a plan!

[@Thebusdriverandgamermorefan790]

Yes of course Joe and I would rather buy this.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for always tuning in!

[@chuckwalla2967]

Do you think this will make it to 100K miles unscathed?

[@RaitisRides]

That is the million dollar question Chuck!

[@00_UU]

Equinox is MUCH better than new CRV or new RAV4, especially inside. Love new GM interiors and new GM infotainment ❤ AWD is not needed.

[@russ4j]

First, let me say that I love your reviews and I think you’re among, if not the best, there is. However, I have to disagree that Chevy should’ve made the entire new Equinox fleet 4WD. The reason being is some potential buyers, including myself, will buy a vehicle solely bcoz of the style and mileage efficiency with no intention to drive on the mountains. It’s nice to give buyers different options. Having said that, I hope car manufacturers are taking notes coz you’re always spot on with your zonk cricisms…lol Kudos!

[@pfwww12]

As a avid Uber rider....The Rav4 is soooooo boring lol The interior is just meh. The Performance is right in the middle. I drove in a 2022 Equinox recently and instantly it rides and feels more premium than anyyyyyyy Toyota Rav 4 period.........Also tho, love the new CRV Hyrbid. I was very Impressed riding in the rear seats. Space was wonderful and the power train was quick as hell lol

[@Aschoolbusandsimulatorfan2219]

Amazing review Joe & I'm really like this SUV.

[@CarGeek360]

GM messed up the redesigned Equinox, Terrain, Enclave, Traverse, and Acadia big-time and that’s an understatement, there are WAY too many better choices to choose from, for the ten millionth time GM needs to learn that a fancy large screen can’t fix an otherwise mediocre interior, I would let it slide if these cars were reliable but unfortunately they aren’t even close

[@chrisb9478]

No, an Equinox is not better than a RAV4. These will be lucky to make it to 100k mi without problems. Whereas a RAV4 can be going strong over 200k miles. 😂

[@WokeisaJoke0522]

Okay, so I paid much more for my NX 350h, but I’d rather have my car because reliability. That little 4 banger with turbo is a big no thanks

[@jasondickens9003]

You know BMW designers should attend som GM design studio classes so they can take some notes on how to integrate flat screen instrument clusters and MMI screens into the dash of vehicles. GM did a nice job there. It looks like the designers spent some time in how Asthetics and functions come together. GMs instrumentation and MMI screen integration at $36k would put some $70K vehicle screens to shame.

[@byronherndon533]

NICE👍🏽

[@toddleech1055]

nice looking vehicle, but as a past equinox owner that engine is very disappointing ...way way too underpowered. chevy needs to up that department IMO

[@roadrunnerorange]

Its not even better than the previous gen equinox😂. - it weighs more, slower 0-60, and worse mpg compared to previous gen. Makes no sense.

[@VishnuKamath]

The Best thing Chevy does is physical HVAC Controls. Every Manufacturer should do the same.

[@krizington85]

Nice interior, and physical climate controls in the Equinox, unlike in the Terrain. GMC overdid it with the gigantic screens

[@javy.airlines]

That’s Also A Ver Nice One Too👍🏻👌🏻🙌🏻🚙💨!!!

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that you like this all new trim of the Equinox.

[@enteriprse33]

Kancolle yamato

[@zdzislawmeglicki2262]

No lane centering (every other competitor has it) and no SuperCruise. Does it have a spare?

[@holycow7195]

Unfortunately made in Mexico; 4 cylinder 175hp not much power.

[@mjg1544]

It has an opening in the dash for a HUD, but no HUD? That’s bizarre.

[@msteppling3550]

How would you compare this to the 2.0L turbo engine?

[@LeeDeion]

Chevy are beautiful cars but dont last long .

[@kyrabrown5156]

At a full tank it only gets 271 miles my 2018 gets at least 430 on a full tank

[@NASTYGENGAR]

No Bose speakers anymore? 😕

[@jraheemjefcoat429]

I take the Toyota Rav4 with the new Equinox interior!

[@rafaelmelendez6655]

A fiat 500 is 160 hp to big for that weak 1.5 t I have 2017 v6 with 301 hp if you have 5 adults forget it you going to be driving with the semi trucks so slow

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for that interesting info.

[@angelmatos5987]

Very nice and spacious, very comfortable interiors as well as the spacious trunk and my question would be, does it have an emergency tire and its accessories. And I also think Chevy should have another additional engine size like a 2.0 lt turbo for this particular model.

[@pfwww12]

As your Fan of all American Brand I must say...GMC AND ALL THEIR BRANDS ARE BEAUTIFUL AND CAPABLE AND FEATURES GALORE🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲

[@MisterMikeTexas]

Well that passenger door pocket looks large enough to hold a container of Cheech & Chong's Cruise Chews (passenger only!). Might come in handy when traveling in the middle of nowhere.

[@robertwinkler8444]

Like the style, hate the two tone color. Give me a blacked out or grey version. Like the fog lights for 2025...Nice review Joe👍🏻👍🏻

[@MisterMikeTexas]

If I got powdered sugar or boogers on the backs of my parents' seats, it would have been a couple of minutes before I could sit again! 😅

[@sergten]

I once rented an Equinox and loved it. Wish there was an option for a more powerful engine though.

[@MisterMikeTexas]

Speaking of Twinkies, some local fairs sell fried Twinkies. I want to try em!

[@Paul-cx4gm]

Yes I think it's better.

[@Bartholomew60]

Does it have skid plates? What is the ground clearance?

[@lionelholmesjr617]

I might be interested since the drivetrain is the same as my 19 nox

[@life-pm5xl]

$36k?😂😂😂😂😂

[@peg38]

me like that color plus me like the eqqy knocks

[@Curtistv680]

I like seeing which song your listening to

[@RaitisRides]

That is awesome to hear Curtis!

[@linkplanet26]

Nobody gonna mention that he hit a bird at 19:30?

[@googlekeepsmemisinformed447]

Steven almost actually shot a direct front grille angle. I can’t freaking believe it. Of course fails to on the rear. Gonna unsub until you guys decide the car is the star of the show. Duces.

[@RaitisRides]

You crack me up!

[@MisterMikeTexas]

I good video ad for this Equinox would be of it in action, while the power chords toward the end of "Suite Madame Blue" by Styx are playing. That song is off their album "Equinox". 😊

[@edwardrodgers9383]

No! Toyota is better!👌

[@Ethan_Alexandur]

These redesigns from Chevy are very meh.

[@rykerpercival8931]

I think you might be in the minority. The equinox looks great relative to what it was.

[@RaitisRides]

They are an improvement from the previous model year hands down.

[@RaitisRides]

Totally agree with you!

[@yl003760]

1.5T ENGINE+GM quality=20k in repair. No thanks!

[@yl003760]

37K for 1.5 L turbo engine. Am I crazy or GM is crazy.