2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV vs 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV initially appeared similar to its internal combustion engine 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 predominantly body-coloured, and the rear design echoed the front with a light bar. Standard 19-inch aluminum wheels were featured on the 2LT, while other trims boasted 21-inch versions. The Equinox EV offered vibrant colour options like “Red Hot” and “Riptide Blue Metallic,” adding a youthful flair. Two-tone paint jobs were available, enhancing its funky and exuberant appearance. Interior options varied by trim, with sporty choices like Adrenaline Red available for the 2RS and 3RS.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE, redesigned for 2020 and facelifted for 2024, maintained a distinct identity within the Mercedes lineup. It featured a rounded profile reminiscent of previous generations, with squared-off wheel arches and a horizontal grille. The GLE Coupe models exaggerated these proportions with a fastback-style roofline. While not the most handsome in the lineup, it adhered to Mercedes’ design orthodoxy. The interior offered unique colour options, such as Yacht Blue, and upscale features like chunky air vents and a 64-colour ambient lighting system. The cabin felt luxurious, with a Burmester audio system and a discotheque-like atmosphere at night.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV featured a hands-free start, which some found eerie but not uncommon. It offered one-pedal driving and various drive modes, including Tour, Sport, and Snow/Ice. The single-motor FWD variant delivered 213 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, while the AWD version boasted 288 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque. It could tow up to 680 kilograms. The FWD model had an impressive range of 513 kilometres, with the AWD slightly less. The Equinox EV supported DC fast charging up to 150 kW, regaining about 125 kilometres of range in 10 minutes.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered five powertrain options, including a plug-in hybrid and AMG variants. The GLE 350 featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with 255 horsepower, while the GLE 450 had a 3.0-litre inline-six producing 375 horsepower. The AMG GLE 53 delivered 429 horsepower, and the AMG GLE 63 S boasted a 603-horsepower V8. The GLE 63 S accelerated from 0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds. Despite its power, the GLE felt larger than it was, with features like adaptive air suspension unable to make it nimble in tight spaces.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV’s base model lacked some heated features, but higher trims included them along with power-adjustable seats and a panoramic moonroof. The 3LT trim added front-seat ventilation and heated rear seats. The Equinox EV offered 994 mm of front headroom and 1,058 mm of legroom, with a cargo space of 748 litres, expandable to 1,620 litres. Roof rails were standard on all but the base trim.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE came in two- and three-row configurations, with competitive headroom and slightly more second-row space than rivals. It offered 894 litres of cargo space behind the second row, expandable to 1,790 litres. The GLE had a high seating position but limited visibility. It could tow up to 3,500 kilograms, matching the Audi Q7.

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, offering Google Maps and Assistant. An eight-year OnStar Remote Access Plan was included, essential for the MyChevrolet app’s navigation and charging features.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE had dual 12.3-inch screens for instruments and infotainment, with MBUX incorporating wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Multiple access methods, including voice recognition, were available. AMG models offered additional drive modes and settings, with off-road displays and a “transparent hood” function for rough terrain.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV included Chevy Safety Assist with features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. It also had rear park assist, blind-zone steering assist, and adaptive cruise control. Super Cruise was available from the 2LT trim.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered standard safety features like forward collision warning and blind spot monitoring. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, though its front-crash prevention ratings varied.