2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV vs 2023 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, continued to be a strong contender in the compact crossover SUV market. It was praised for its stylish design and high-quality materials, which gave it the feel of a small luxury SUV. The available turbocharged engine provided impressive power, and the model boasted a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. However, the CX-5 had its drawbacks, such as a small back seat, limited cargo space, and a frustrating infotainment system. Mazda's decision to transition the CX-5 to the CX-50 was part of a broader marketing strategy, similar to Infiniti's renaming of the G37 to the Q50 and Q60. The hope was that loyal CX-5 customers would embrace the new CX-50.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV, at first glance, resembled its internal combustion engine counterpart but revealed distinct differences upon closer inspection. The EV version featured more decisive lines, a thicker body-colored C-pillar, and a sleeker grille. It also sported an LED light bar across the front fascia, a common feature in EVs. The Equinox EV offered a range of vibrant color options, including "Red Hot" and "Riptide Blue Metallic," which added a youthful and exuberant touch. The interior color options expanded as you moved up the trim levels, with sporty choices like Adrenaline Red available for the 2RS and 3RS trims. The Equinox EV's design aimed to balance sophistication with a touch of fun.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options. The base 2.5 S model came with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. It achieved an EPA fuel economy rating of 26 mpg in combined driving. The more powerful 2.5 Turbo variant featured a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, delivering 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel, or 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. This engine also came with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD, with an EPA rating of 24 mpg in combined driving. The turbocharged engine provided a thrilling driving experience, with torque arriving at 2,000 rpm on regular gas and 2,500 rpm on premium fuel. The CX-5's structural and suspension updates improved its ride quality, making it feel more like an entry-level luxury vehicle.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV offered a hands-free start feature, allowing drivers to simply get in and go. It provided a comfortable ride on 19-inch wheels, with a single-motor front-wheel-drive variant producing 213 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. The all-wheel-drive version featured a dual-motor powertrain with 288 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque. The Equinox EV had an impressive EPA-estimated range of 319 miles for FWD models and 285 miles for AWD. It featured an 85-kWh battery, capable of DC fast charging at up to 150 kW, regaining about 77 miles of range in 10 minutes. The Equinox EV's performance was complemented by its range and charging capabilities, making it a practical choice for electric vehicle enthusiasts.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 received updates to its front seats for improved comfort and support. It offered a height-adjustable driver's seat in all versions, with power adjustments available in higher trims. The Signature trim featured luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. However, the CX-5's interior space was limited, with relatively small in-cabin storage areas, a cramped back seat, and a cargo area offering 30.9 cubic feet of space behind the rear seat and 59.3 cubic feet with the back seat folded down. The infotainment system lacked a conversational voice recognition system, making it less user-friendly compared to competitors.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV, starting from the 2LT trim, included heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and outside mirrors as standard. The 3LT trim added power adjustments for the passenger seat, front-seat ventilation, and heated rear seats. The Equinox EV provided 39.15 inches of front headroom and 41.65 inches of front legroom, offering a comfortable cabin experience. The cargo space measured 26.4 cubic feet with all seats in place and 57.2 cubic feet with the second row folded down. Roof rails were standard on all but the base trim, enhancing its practicality for carrying additional cargo.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system featured a 10.25-inch display with sophisticated graphics and a logical menu structure. However, it lacked a helpful voice recognition system, and the physical controls on the center console were somewhat awkward to use. The system required memorization and conscious thought to navigate, making it less intuitive than touchscreens. Despite these challenges, Mazda Connect offered features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a three-year trial subscription to Mazda Connected Services. The test vehicle also included a front-facing camera and a surround-view camera system for easier parking.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV featured a driver-oriented cockpit with a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, the largest in its segment. It also had an 11-inch screen for driver information. 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 access to over 174,000 public charging stations. The Equinox EV's technology package was comprehensive, enhancing the driving experience with advanced connectivity and convenience features.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety with its i-Activsense driver assistance technology. Most features were standard, except for a few exclusive to the 2.5 Turbo Signature trim, such as a surround-view camera system and Traffic Jam Assist. The i-Activsense tech operated smoothly and accurately, with features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, showcasing its strong safety performance.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV came with Chevy Safety Assist as standard, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and forward collision alert. It also featured rear park assist, reverse automatic braking, and blind-zone steering assist. GM's Teen Driver Technology allowed parents to set speed alerts and monitor driving behavior. Super Cruise, a hands-free highway-driving assist system, was available starting with the 2LT trim. The Equinox EV's safety features provided comprehensive protection and driver assistance.