2023 Chevrolet Equinox vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox presented itself as an attractive crossover, even if it lacked the futuristic design of some competitors. Its restrained bodywork was complemented by a chunky front end, making the grille appear smaller and more refined. The gold Bowtie emblem varied in appeal depending on the paint colour, with Blue Glow Metallic and Harvest Brown Metallic being particularly flattering. The Equinox was available in four trims, with AWD as an option on the LS and LT trims in Canada, and standard on the RS and Premier trims. Its design language shared similarities with the larger Chevrolet Traverse, and the interior offered a sense of spaciousness, highlighted by two-tone leather upholstery and practical features like heated front seats.

In contrast, the 2024 BMW X5 maintained a well-aged design since its last redesign in 2019. The M Sport treatment, however, gave it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch wheels, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. The X5 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, a PHEV powertrain, and a turbocharged V8 engine. The interior received a modern update with the BMW Curved Display, reducing physical controls while maintaining high-quality materials. The X5's design and features tied it to BMW's legacy of luxury and performance.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox was powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. Despite the slight increase in power, it lacked spirited acceleration, especially above 50 km/h. The six-speed automatic transmission held gears longer, contributing to a noisy powertrain. AWD was available but required manual engagement. The Equinox's braking system was upgraded to an electronically assisted brake-by-wire system, improving braking performance. Its suspension handled bumps well, and the steering was tight and accurate, making it enjoyable to drive.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV featured a new mild-hybrid system with a more powerful electric motor and a 19.2 kWh battery. It offered 63 kilometres of electric-only range and a combined fuel efficiency of 10.6 L/100 km. The xDrive50e produced 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, accelerating to 96 km/h in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV excelled in electric driving, with a Level 2 home charging station recommended for optimal use. The adaptive damping air suspension masked its weight, and the X5 delivered excellent handling and ride quality, even with large 21-inch wheels.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox offered 847 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,809 litres with the seats folded. While not the largest in its class, it provided ample passenger space, with good headroom and legroom. The interior featured higher-quality plastic components, a power liftgate, and optional panoramic sunroof. Storage options included cup holders, a centre console bin, and door pockets.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e provided 937 litres of cargo space, expanding to 2,016 litres with the rear seats folded. Its split liftgate design offered convenience but required stretching to access deep cargo. The interior featured standard Sensafin artificial leather, with optional 20-way power-adjustable seats, four-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed comfort and support, with available sunshades for added convenience.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox's technology was straightforward, with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen depending on the trim. While not flashy, it was easy to use, with quick response and good voice recognition. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Premier trim added a wireless charging pad and optional Bose audio system.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured the BMW Curved Display, combining a 12.3-inch digital panel with a 14.9-inch touchscreen. Running on BMW Operating System 8.5, it offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a range of connected services. The Harman Kardon sound system was optional, but the Intelligent Personal Assistant had limitations in voice recognition. The head-up display and augmented video navigation added to the tech appeal, despite some challenges with the assistant.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox came with standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, and lane-keeping assistance. Optional features included blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. It received a five-star rating from NHTSA but scored poorly in IIHS tests.

The 2024 BMW X5 offered the Highway Assistant hands-free driving system, effective in certain conditions but with occasional errant braking. It received high ratings from IIHS, though lower headlight ratings prevented a safety award. NHTSA gave it a four-star overall rating.