2025 Chevrolet Equinox vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, yet it distinguished itself as a luxury SUV. Its upscale appearance was enhanced by the 22-inch silver-finished wheels included in the TX 350 Executive packages, which significantly improved its presence. The styling of the TX was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those who previously found Lexus designs too bold. 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, although the TX 550h+ was not yet available for sale.

In contrast, the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox underwent a modern redesign, aligning more closely with the larger Chevrolet Traverse. The Equinox featured distinct styling elements for each trim, with the base LT offering chrome or a Midnight Edition high gloss black treatment. The RS trim sported black mirrors and badges, while the new Activ trim showcased dark chrome and simpler grille inserts. The interior of the Equinox was updated with a new sub-texture effect around the vents and a relocated shifter, enhancing the centre console space. The RS and Activ trims offered unique interior themes, with the Activ trim featuring a "Maple Sugar and Black" theme that lightened the cabin.

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, although it felt quicker due to its torque. The official fuel economy rating was 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, but during testing, it averaged 13.8 L/100 km. The TX 350's suspension provided a balance between road surface feedback and ride comfort, with commendable body motion control and accurate steering. However, the brake pedal felt too soft, though it was easy to modulate.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox retained a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. The base LT FWD model featured a CVT, while AWD versions had an eight-speed automatic transmission, which improved upon the previous six-speed. The Equinox's accelerator was responsive at low speeds, but highway merging highlighted the engine's limitations. The ride was generally quiet and comfortable, with AWD models capable of towing up to 680 kilograms. Selectable drive modes, including Normal, Snow, and Off-Road, were available on RS and Activ trims.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. It offered a comfortable interior with premium semi-aniline leather and artificial suede upholstery. Heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel were standard in Canada. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, providing better leg support and visibility than previous models. 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. However, the second-row legroom was limited, affecting comfort when accommodating third-row passengers.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox featured standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel in Canada, with front seat ventilation available in a package for RS and Activ trims. The flat roof provided consistent headroom, with 970 millimetres in the front and 960 millimetres in the rear with the moonroof. The cargo space was slightly reduced, offering 844 litres behind the rear seats and 1,798 litres with them folded. A hidden storage compartment was available beneath the load floor, but overall cargo volume was small for the class.

The 2024 Lexus TX included 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 featured a 14-inch touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Drive Connect subscription for cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. The TX also 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 2025 Chevrolet Equinox came standard with Google Built-In, offering wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The native Google Maps integration projected onto the driver information display, allowing for simultaneous infotainment activity. The voice control system had volume issues in some test vehicles, but most tech features were standard, including an 11.3-inch touchscreen, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, and a six-speaker audio system. Wireless charging was standard for RS and Activ trims and available on LT.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and more. Proactive Drive Assist was also part of the system, providing braking and steering assistance. Additional options included parking sensors, front cross-traffic alert, and traffic jam assist. The system generally performed well, though it slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in front.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox offered a Safety & Technology package with rear pedestrian alert, HD surround vision, and more for $1,295. Most safety features were standard, including rear park assist, side blind-zone alert, adaptive cruise control, and Teen Driver Technology. This feature allowed parents to program speed and volume limitations and provided a "report card" of driving behaviour.