2024 Toyota Sequoia vs 2025 Chevrolet Equinox

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia shared its platform with the Tundra pickup, and this was evident in its design cues, such as hexagonal grilles, wheel arches, and strong fender creases. The exterior colour significantly influenced its appearance, with the Capstone model featuring more chrome brightwork. Our tester, in Celestial Silver, appeared somewhat dated, reminiscent of a "cop car." Inside, the Sequoia closely resembled the Tundra and other Toyota vehicles, with a blocky, geometric dash layout and physical controls for volume and climate. The Capstone trim boasted semi-aniline leather upholstery, while other trims offered SofTex leatherette or standard leather. The seating was power-adjustable, and all models featured a moonroof, with higher trims offering a panoramic version.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox underwent a modern redesign, aligning more with the larger Chevrolet Traverse. It featured a flat roof, upright grille, and distinct C-pillar, giving it a more contemporary look. Each trim had unique styling elements, with the LT offering chrome or a Midnight Edition black treatment. The RS trim sported black mirrors and badges, while the Activ trim showcased dark chrome and all-terrain tires. Interior styling varied across trims, with the RS featuring red highlights and the Activ offering a "Maple Sugar and Black" theme. The cabin felt premium, with thoughtful design choices and a flat floor for rear passengers. Cargo space was slightly reduced, but a hidden storage compartment added practicality.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia was exclusively available as a hybrid, utilizing Toyota's iForce MAX hybrid powertrain. This combined a twin-turbo V6 engine with an electric motor, producing 427 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque, surpassing its V8 predecessor. Fuel economy improved significantly, with a combined rating of 11.7 L/100 km for 4WD models. The Sequoia featured standard 4WD in Canada, with a part-time system and a 10-speed automatic transmission. The TRD Off-Road model offered adventure-readiness with unique tires, off-road suspension, and driver-assist features. Its towing capacity reached 4,137 kilograms, with available towing upgrades.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox retained a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 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. The eight-speed provided smoother acceleration and reduced noise compared to the previous six-speed. The Equinox offered selectable drive modes, including Normal, Snow, and Off-Road, enhancing its versatility. Towing capacity reached 680 kilograms for AWD models, with FWD models limited to 360 kilograms. The ride was generally quiet and comfortable, though highway merging highlighted the engine's limitations.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia Capstone featured automatic power-deploying running boards, aiding entry for shorter individuals. Cargo space reached a maximum of 2,460 litres with seats folded, while third-row seating adjustments affected available space. The second-row seats were easy to move for rear access, but the third-row seats did not create a flat load floor due to the hybrid battery placement. Headroom was reduced, and legroom varied across rows, with the Sequoia trailing some rivals in space. Second-row captain's chairs were available on higher trims, offering width but lacking bolstering.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox offered heated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard in Canada. Ventilated front seats and heated rear seats were available in a package for RS and Activ trims. The Equinox's flat roof provided consistent headroom, with moonroof-equipped models offering additional light for rear passengers. The cabin featured a well-placed "dead pedal" for driver comfort. Cargo space was slightly reduced, with 844 litres behind the rear seats and 1,798 litres with them folded. A hidden storage compartment added practicality, though overall cargo volume was small for the class.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia Capstone was equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, accessible through an 8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim. The infotainment system prioritized functionality over flashiness. A 12.3-inch driver information display was standard across all trims, while the Panoramic View monitor and 10-inch head-up display were available on higher trims. The JBL Premium Audio system was standard on Platinum and Capstone trims, enhancing the audio experience.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox featured Google Built-In as standard, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The native Google Maps integration projected onto the driver information display, allowing for simultaneous infotainment use. Voice control presented challenges, with volume issues noted in some test models. The Equinox's tech features were mostly standard, including an 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, and wireless charging for RS and Activ trims. An upgraded sound system was not available.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia included the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 suite as standard, featuring a pre-collision system, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and road-sign recognition. Front and rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. An optional trailer backup guide was available on higher trims. The Sequoia had not been rated by safety organizations, but the similar Tundra received a Top Safety Pick+ designation.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox offered a Safety & Technology package, adding rear pedestrian alert, HD surround vision, and more for an additional cost. Most safety features were standard, including rear park assist, side blind-zone alert, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. Teen Driver Technology allowed parents to set speed and volume limits and receive a "report card" on driving behaviour, providing peace of mind for families.