2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV initially appeared similar to its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterpart, sharing features like rounded wheel wells and a flat beltline. However, upon closer inspection, the EV version showcased more decisive lines, a thicker body-coloured C-pillar, and a sleeker grille. The front fascia was more body-coloured, and the rear design was more defined, featuring hexagonal shapes and an LED light bar. Standard 19-inch aluminum wheels were included on the 2LT trim, while other trims boasted 21-inch versions. The Equinox EV offered vibrant colour options like "Red Hot" and "Riptide Blue Metallic," which added a youthful and exuberant touch. Two-tone paint jobs were available, and the interior colour options expanded with higher trims, offering choices like Adrenaline Red and black with red accents.

The 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, presented itself as a luxury SUV with a distinct upscale appearance. The TX's styling was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those who preferred a toned-down design. The test model featured 22-inch silver-finished wheels, enhancing its presence. The TX was available in three model series: TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid, with prices ranging from $72,036 to $87,486. The TX 350, likely the volume-selling version, came with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive. The interior featured premium semi-aniline leather upholstery, and the cabin, though dark, offered a luxurious feel. The TX provided a comfortable third-row seat, making it more practical than previous Lexus three-row SUVs.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV featured a hands-free start, which, while not universally favoured, was becoming more common in EVs. The vehicle offered one-pedal driving across all trims, managed through a regenerative braking setting or drive modes like Tour, Sport, Snow/Ice, and My Mode. The Equinox EV delivered a comfortable ride, with the single-motor, front-wheel-drive variant producing 213 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. The all-wheel-drive version boasted a dual-motor powertrain with 288 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque, capable of towing up to 680 kilograms. The FWD model had an estimated range of 513 kilometres, while the AWD version offered 494 km, with a larger battery contributing to these impressive figures. The Equinox EV supported DC fast charging at up to 150 kW, regaining about 125 kilometres of range in 10 minutes.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Lexus claimed it could accelerate to 100 km/h in roughly eight seconds, though it felt quicker due to its torque. The TX 350's fuel economy was rated at 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, slightly better than the previous RX L model. The ride and handling were well-balanced, with a firm suspension providing a comfortable ride and accurate steering. The interior remained quiet on the highway, though the brake pedal felt too soft in the test vehicle. Overall, the TX 350's performance was adequate for typical driving situations.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV offered a range of interior features, with the 2LT trim including heated front seats, steering wheel, and outside mirrors. The 3LT trim added power adjustments for the passenger seat, front-seat ventilation, and heated rear seats. The Equinox EV provided 994 mm of front headroom and 978 mm in the second row, with 1,058 mm of front legroom. The cargo space measured 748 litres with all seats in place and 1,620 litres with the second row folded down. Roof rails were standard on all but the base trim, enhancing utility.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. The TX 350 test unit featured premium semi-aniline leather and artificial suede upholstery, with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard in Canada. The second-row seat offered triple-zone automatic climate control and USB charging ports for all rows. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, providing leg support and a good view. Cargo space measured 572 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,625 litres with the third row folded and 2,746 litres with the second row down. The TX offered numerous storage options, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV featured 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, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store. An eight-year OnStar Remote Access Plan subscription was included, offering navigation, route planning, and battery pre-conditioning through the MyChevrolet app.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a digital rearview mirror, with additional features like a head-up display and surround-view camera in the Executive packages. The Lexus Interface infotainment system included a 14-inch touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Drive Connect, available through a subscription, added cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. The TX offered free 10-year subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect, with Remote Connect free for three years. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system provided impressive sound quality.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, forward collision alert, and more. Additional features included rear park assist, reverse automatic braking, blind-zone steering assist, and adaptive cruise control. Super Cruise, a hands-free highway-driving assist system, was available starting with the 2LT trim.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and more. Proactive Drive Assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert were also included. The Executive packages offered additional features like front and rear parking sensors and traffic jam assist. LSS+ 3.0 proved effective, though the TX slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in, causing some frustration.