The Savvy Drivers had the chance to drive three different choices across Chevrolet’s SUV line-up. All sported the upgraded RS trim and AWD.
The Redesigned 2025 Equinox is an Appealing, Comfortable, Utilitarian Compact that Starts at Under $30K
Chevy designers wisely retained much from the previous generation of its best-selling 5-seater compact crossover. And by making the fourth generation Equinox slightly wider, they ensure that the Equinox remains one of the larger choices among compacts.
The updated truck-inspired look outside is impressive. And its 11-inch digital instrument cluster and 11.3-inch central infotainment screen inside were also appealing. Furthermore, Equinox proves up to snuff with others in its highly competitive segment when it comes to technology and safety features.
The Equinox remains powered by the same 1.5L Turbo engine as before. But transmission options changed.
Front-wheel drive models are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), good for 175 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. Our RS trim model had the optional all-wheel-drive system. And in choosing AWD, Chevy swaps the CVT automatic for an eight-speed automatic and bumps torque output to 203 lb-ft.
The RS also gives it a sportier look with more standard features. This includes the Midnight Edition package with 19-inch wheels, roof rails and black exterior mirror caps. RS also includes the Convenience Package II which adds 8-way power driver’s seat, rain-sensing windshield wipers with heated wiper rests, hands-free power liftgate, dual-zone automatic climate control and a wireless phone charger. The 2025 Equinox starts at $28,600. The Standard Vehicle Price on our 2025 Equinox RS AWD was still bargain-priced at $35,000.

At the RS level there’s also an available Convenience Package III adding memory for the driver’s settings, 8-way power seat adjustment on the passenger side, ventilated front seats and heating rear seats. A Safety and Technology package added fog lights, a digital rearview mirror, a surround-view camera, and rear pedestrian alert. Our tester car had all of the above plus a panoramic sunroof and Radiant Red paint. In all, with a total of $4K in options, the final price was just under $40k before destination charges.
Next Up: The 5-Passenger Midsize Blazer EV
Our other Chevy test drives gave us the opportunity to get a feel for the brand’s mid-size offerings and also see what it brings to the table in the EV arena.


The Blazer is known for taking design ques from the Camaro. The gas version comes in either a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine or an optional 3.6-liter V-6 deliver crisp handling and well-controlled body motions — a rarity in midsize SUVs at its $40K price range.
The Blazer RS AWD adds unique suspension and steering tuning that notches up the handling even more and an even sportier look.
But unlike most other Chevy SUVs, the Blazer isn’t known for a roomy interior and cargo space, since those are compromised by its edgy shape.

Comparing the Blazer EV to the gas-powered Blazer and to other EVs
The Blazer EV’s smooth ride quality is delivered differently. It comes from a single-speed transmission with instant torque provided by its electric motors. The brake regeneration is strong and adjustable, and it allows for one-pedal driving. And steering can be adjusted to provide different levels of sportiness.
Topping the list of the Blazer EV’s pluses is its long range. The EPA estimates it can go up to 324 miles on a full charge. Comparing the EV and gas Blazers, the EV accelerates faster. But a lot of the other dual-motor EVs it competes with get a better zero to 60 rating than the Blazer.
Inside, the Blazer EV RS and the gas-powered Blazer RS offer similar passenger capacity and seating arrangements and share similar features across the various trim levels. But the Blazer EV has a more modern, futuristic interior design including a different dashboard layout and controls. Infotainment systems also differ. Gas-powered Blazers have a 10.2-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. The Blazer EV comes standard with a massive 17.7-inch central touchscreen. There’s an outcry, however, because the EV’s system does not include Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Instead, it uses Google Built-In, which only some are fans of.
Pricewise, the gas-powered 2025 Chevrolet Blazer starts from $35,400 and the Blazer EV starts from $45,995. That puts the Blazer EV at a higher starting price than most competing electric SUVs. And in either the case of gas or EV, you’ll pay roughly $10k more for the RS trim with AWD.
Some Choose the Mid-Sized Traverse Over the Full-Size Tahoe
Slightly longer overall in length and wheelbase than others, Traverse is one of the roomiest choices in the 3-row midsize segment. Unless you really need lots of towing power, Chevy patrons can compare the Traverse it to its full-sized truck-based Tahoe counterpart. Traverse offers nearly the same space and flexibility but costs significantly less. For 2025, the base LS trim on Traverse was discontinued, and Tahoe’s starting price increased a bit, too. So, when you’re comparing the starting price of the two 2025 models, you’re looking at around $42k for the Traverse vs $58,500 for the Tahoe.

A redesign in 2024 gave the third generation Traverse a sportier, more rugged look along with sportier performance. A new 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is more powerful and more efficient than the V6 it replaces. It boasts 328 hp and 326 lb-ft of torque and is paired to an eight-speed transmission and front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is optional on all but the off-road oriented Z71, where it comes standard. Inside, it retains its competitive edge with a roomier cabin and more cargo versatility than most of its rivals. And it gets the large 17.7-inch touchscreen display—with ApplePlay and Android Auto!
Indeed, RS comes with nearly every feature offered in the Traverse lineup. It adds 22-inch wheels and leather upholstery. Driver and passenger seats are power-adjustable, heated and ventilated. RS also adds heated rear seats, a power-folding third-row seat, power liftgate, digital rearview mirror, 10-speaker Bose audio system. And also, exclusive to the RS Traverse, is Super Cruise, considered among today’s most advanced hands-free driving technology systems on the market. Our tester needed no options with a price of $56K before delivery.
The Bottom Line
Chevrolet’s compact and midsize SUVs provide a well-rounded selection for customers seeking a balance of space, performance, and efficiency.
Check out our review of the subcompact Chevy Trax and Equinox EV in this previous post.