2023 Chevrolet Equinox vs 2023 Lexus RX

The 2023 Lexus RX, built in Canada, marked its fifth generation with a design that was shorter in height, broader in width, and longer in wheelbase compared to its predecessor. Despite maintaining the same overall length, it offered more cargo space than the 2022 model, though still less than some competitors. The RX appeared smaller due to reduced rear overhang, softer design lines, and a floating roof effect created by the down-sloping black trim on the rear pillar. The front featured a spindle-style grille integrated into the design, with a modern mesh texture and an elevated hood. The rear showcased a light-blade taillight design and sporty bumper. The RX's exterior styling was familiar yet fresh, distinguishing it from the previous generation and the smaller Lexus NX.

Inside, the RX boasted a modern interior with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a choice of 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen displays. The Intelligent Assistant technology, available for three years on some models, enhanced usability. High-quality materials were evident, with NuLuxe artificial leather standard and genuine leather available. The RX 350, RX 350h, and RX 500h models offered various trims, with Canadian pricing starting at $58,650 for the RX 350.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox, while not as flashy as some competitors, presented an attractive crossover with a restrained bodywork and a chunky front end that made the grille appear smaller. The Equinox was available in four trims: LS, LT, RS, and Premier, with AWD as an option. Its design language was shared with the larger Chevrolet Traverse, and the Equinox's profile gave an impression of spaciousness. The interior featured two-tone leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel on higher trims. Despite a dated look, the Equinox was practical and easy to use, with a traditional PRNDL shift lever and ample storage.

The Equinox's Confidence and Convenience II package added features like lumbar adjustments, ventilated front seats, and adaptive cruise control. The Equinox's technology was simple yet effective, with a small touchscreen interface that was easy to use. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot were standard, while a Bose audio system was optional on higher trims.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre inline four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine offered better torque and fuel economy than the previous V6, though it lacked the same smoothness. The RX 350 AWD could accelerate to 100 km/h in about 7.3 seconds, with a combined fuel economy of 9.9 L/100 km. The RX 350 Executive trim displayed occasional torque steer and body motion, while the F Sport 3 trim, with its adaptive suspension, provided a more secure ride.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox was powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. It handled low-speed acceleration well but struggled at higher speeds. The Equinox used a six-speed automatic transmission, which contributed to its powertrain noise. AWD was available but required manual engagement. The Equinox's braking system was upgraded to an electronically assisted brake-by-wire system, providing smooth and predictable braking. The suspension handled bumps well, and the steering was tight and accurate.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 offered comfortable seating, with the F Sport 3 package providing sport seat bolsters for better support. The RX 350 Executive trim featured premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The back seat was roomy, with good leg support, though headroom was tight for taller passengers. The RX's cargo space measured 838 litres with the rear seats up and 1,308 litres with them folded down.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox had a cargo area of 847 litres behind the rear seats and 1,809 litres with them folded down. Passenger space was ample, with good headroom and legroom. The interior used higher-quality plastic materials, with plenty of storage options. A power liftgate was standard on the Premier trim, and a panoramic sunroof was available on all but the base trim.

The 2023 Lexus RX featured the new Lexus Interface multimedia system with a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen display. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connected services. The Intelligent Assistant responded to voice commands, though it occasionally provided inaccurate results. User profiles could be set up, and music streaming was available. The Mark Levinson premium sound system was standard on test vehicles, and a head-up display was optional.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox's technology was simple yet effective, with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen interface. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The infotainment system was easy to use, with good voice recognition and customizable icons. A wireless charging pad was standard on the Premier trim, and a Bose audio system was optional on higher trims.

The 2023 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included lane departure warning, automatic high beams, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. New features included motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. Proactive Driving Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, and Advanced Park Assist were also available. The system had some flaws, such as unmarked adaptive cruise controls and non-predictive curve-speed reduction technology.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox included standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, and lane-keeping assistance. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were optional on all but the Premier trim. The Equinox received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA but scored poorly in some IIHS crash tests.