2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV Review: A Rugged Twist on the Everyday SUV

The Chevrolet Equinox has always been one of those dependable, no-nonsense SUVs that gets the job done. It’s not flashy, it doesn’t demand attention, and it has never really been something to get overly excited about. That’s not an insult, it’s just the Equinox’s lane.

For 2025, though, Chevrolet decided to spice things up a little. Enter the Equinox ACTIV, a new trim that adds some rugged styling cues and a little extra capability, aiming to tap into the ever-growing off-road-inspired crossover trend.

Chevy says the ACTIV trim is made for adventure, but does it actually have the chops to tackle the trails, or is it just another crossover with tough-guy styling?

What’s New for 2025?

The 2025 Equinox gets a full redesign, and Chevy made some big changes to keep up with modern trends. The look is significantly sharper, sportier, and more aggressive than before, ditching the old-school soft curves for a more defined and rugged design.

The ACTIV trim sits at the top of the lineup, bringing off-road-inspired styling and some actual functional upgrades, though it stops short of being a full-fledged off-roader.

Under the Hood: Powertrain & Performance

• Engine: 1.5L turbocharged inline-four
• Horsepower: 175 hp
• Torque: 184 lb-ft
• Transmission: CVT (FWD) or 8-speed automatic (AWD)
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive standard, all-wheel drive available
• Fuel Economy: Estimated 28 mpg city / 31 mpg highway (FWD)

Chevy kept things simple in the power department. The 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder is the only option, which is fine for daily driving but doesn’t exactly scream “adventure machine.” It’s just adequate and nothing more, nothing less.

ACTIV models get a slightly tuned suspension, skid plates, and all-terrain tires, giving it more confidence on rougher roads. However, it doesn’t have a dedicated off-road drive mode, extra ground clearance, or anything that truly sets it apart mechanically.

ACTIV Trim: What Makes It Special?

Chevrolet gave the Equinox ACTIV a tougher, more adventure-ready look, and it’s arguably the most eye-catching model in the lineup.

ACTIV-Specific Features:

• Unique front grille with a bolder design
• More aggressive front and rear bumpers
• All-terrain tires for better traction on dirt and gravel
• Underbody skid plates for extra protection
• ACTIV-exclusive interior with contrast stitching and upgraded materials
• Standard AWD (optional on lower trims)

Again, the ACTIV isn’t a hardcore off-roader, but it does give the Equinox a little extra capability. The beefier tires and skid plates mean it can handle dirt roads better than the average crossover, but it’s still far from an extreme rock crawler or anything.

Other Equinox Trims:

The 2025 lineup includes four trims, each catering to different needs and budgets.

LS (Base Model)

• Simpler design, but still modern
• Same 1.5L turbo engine
• Basic tech and safety features
• FWD standard, AWD optional

LT (Most Popular Trim)

• Adds LED lighting, larger wheels, and nicer interior materials
• Larger infotainment screen
• More driver-assist tech

RS (Sportier Option)

• Black exterior accents and a sportier design
• Larger wheels, sportier suspension tuning
• Red-stitched interior for an aggressive look

ACTIV (Adventure-Inspired Trim)

• Rugged styling, all-terrain tires, skid plates
• ACTIV-exclusive interior upgrades
• Standard AWD, making it the most capable trim

Each trim has its own personality with pros and cons, but the ACTIV stands out with its more rugged design and adventure-ready features.

Tech & Interior Comfort: A Step Up from the Previous Model

The 2025 Equinox interior gets a major glow-up, and it feels more upscale than in prior model years. The ACTIV trim brings in some unique touches, making it the most stylish version of the Equinox yet.

Interior Features:

• 11-inch digital gauge cluster (standard)
• 11.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• ACTIV-exclusive seats with contrast stitching
• Available heated and ventilated seats
• Premium Bose sound system option

Chevy finally ditched the outdated interior from the previous Equinox, bringing in a more modern, tech-focused design. The large touchscreen is crisp and easy to use, and the digital gauge cluster adds a futuristic touch.

While it’s not quite as premium as a bonified luxury SUV, the Equinox’s cabin now feels more competitive in its class.

Competitors: What’s the ACTIV Up Against?

The off-road-styled crossover trend is booming, and the Equinox ACTIV isn’t alone in this space. Here’s how it stacks up against some popular rivals.

Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road

• More horsepower (203 hp) and a tougher AWD system
• Better off-road credentials with more ground clearance
• Toyota’s reputation for reliability
• More expensive, but offers true off-road capability

Subaru Forester Wilderness

• More ground clearance and a rugged AWD system
• Standard off-road drive modes
• Practical interior with a larger cargo area
• Lacks the Equinox’s modern tech, but is more capable off-road

Honda CR-V Sport Touring AWD

• More powerful hybrid option with better fuel economy
• Refined driving experience, but not as rugged-looking
• One of the most comfortable and spacious in its class
• All-wheel drive standard, but not designed for off-road use

Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend

• More serious off-road capability than the Equinox ACTIV
• Turbocharged engine with more torque
• Boxy, adventure-ready styling
• More expensive, but a true off-road performer

The Equinox ACTIV fits into this group as a softer, more city-friendly option. It leans more toward “adventure styling” rather than true off-road capability, making it great for those who want the look without sacrificing daily driving comfort.

What Could Be Better?

The Equinox ACTIV is a solid effort, but there are a few things that could have made it even better.

• More power would be nice. The 1.5L engine is fine, but an optional turbocharged 2.0L with around 250 hp would’ve been a game-changer.
• More off-road upgrades. Some extra ground clearance and an off-road mode would have made it a true competitor to the RAV4 TRD Off-Road and Forester Wilderness.
• Interior could be even more rugged. The ACTIV’s unique touches are nice, but some more adventure-focused materials like rubberized flooring would have made it stand out more.

Is the Equinox ACTIV Deserving of Your Moola?

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV is a solid choice for buyers who want rugged styling with a little extra capability. It’s not a dedicated off-roader, but it offers enough upgrades to make it a fun, adventure-ready daily.

For those who want a stylish, capable, and modern SUV with a little extra personality, the ACTIV trim is a great pick. If true off-road performance is a priority, there are certainly better options out there.

What do you think? Would you take the Equinox ACTIV for a weekend adventure, or do you need something tougher? Drop a comment below!