2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2023 Volvo XC90 marked a significant departure from Volvo's past design ethos, which was often likened to utilitarian appliances. This model showcased a purposeful yet understated aesthetic, with a stout front end and a bold grille that avoided being ostentatious. The signature "Thor’s Hammer" headlights added a modern touch, while the overall shape retained a hint of Volvo's traditional rectilinear design. The Ultimate trim featured 21-inch wheels and a Platinum Grey paint with subtle brown undertones, enhancing its sophisticated appearance. Inside, the XC90 exuded elegance with two-tone leather, metal speaker covers, and luxurious Nappa leather upholstery, complemented by tasteful wood inlays and a minimalist design.

In contrast, the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV shared some design elements with its internal combustion engine counterpart but introduced more decisive lines and a sleeker grille. The EV version featured an LED light bar and a more body-coloured front fascia, with hexagonal shapes at the rear. The Equinox EV offered vibrant colour options like "Red Hot" and "Riptide Blue Metallic," with two-tone paint jobs available for certain trims. Inside, the Equinox EV provided a choice of interior colours, with sporty options for higher trims. The cabin was comfortable, with blue accents complementing the Galaxy Grey exterior.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced the B6 engine, a mild-hybrid powertrain that replaced the older T5 and T6 engines. This setup delivered 295 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, slightly less than its predecessor but with improved fuel efficiency and smoother operation. The mild-hybrid system used a lithium-ion battery to power a 13-volt starter generator, enhancing features like climate control and ignition. The XC90 offered a refined driving experience with quick acceleration, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and excellent insulation for a quiet ride. While it lacked extensive off-road capabilities, its simplicity appealed to those seeking straightforward driving dynamics.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV featured a hands-free start and one-pedal driving, with drive modes like Tour, Sport, and Snow/Ice. The single-motor FWD variant produced 213 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, while the AWD version offered 288 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque. The Equinox EV boasted impressive range estimates, with up to 513 km for FWD models. It supported DC fast charging and Level 2 charging, making it competitive with other EVs in its class. The Equinox EV provided a comfortable ride, with stable handling and a towing capacity of up to 680 kg.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 offered a serene front-seat experience but faced challenges with storage space. The lack of dedicated cubby space for small items and limited access to the third row were notable drawbacks. The XC90 provided 356 litres of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 1,856 litres with seats folded, though it fell short compared to some competitors. Despite its smaller size, the XC90 drove like a more compact vehicle, offering a comfortable second row and optional captain’s chairs for six-passenger seating.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV, particularly in the 2LT trim, included heated functions, power-adjustable seats, and premium features like front-seat ventilation and heated rear seats. The Equinox EV offered 994 mm of headroom in the front and 978 mm in the second row, with 1,058 mm of front legroom. Cargo space measured 748 litres with all seats up, expanding to 1,620 litres with the second row folded. While it offered less cargo volume than some competitors, the Equinox EV included standard roof rails for additional storage options.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch vertical touchscreen running Google OS, integrating Google Maps, Google Assistant, and other apps. While the system offered advanced natural-language recognition, it relied heavily on the touchscreen for controls, which could be frustrating. Keyless entry was standard, with an optional head-up display.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV boasted a driver-oriented cockpit with a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen and an 11-inch driver information screen. Google Built-In was standard, providing Google Maps and Assistant. An eight-year OnStar Remote Access Plan was included, supporting the MyChevrolet app for navigation and route planning.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety, earning a five-star NHTSA rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist, all contributing to Volvo’s Pilot Assist technology.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV came with Chevy Safety Assist, featuring automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and more. Additional safety features included rear park assist, reverse automatic braking, and adaptive cruise control. Super Cruise was available from the 2LT trim, enhancing highway driving assistance.