2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV vs 2023 Honda Pilot

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-colored C-pillar, and a sleeker grille. The front fascia was more body-colored, and the rear design was more defined, featuring hexagons and a light bar echoing the front. Standard 19-inch aluminum wheels were available on the 1LT and 2LT trims, while the higher trims boasted 21-inch versions. The Equinox EV offered vibrant color options like "Red Hot" and "Riptide Blue Metallic," which added a youthful and exuberant touch. Two-tone paint jobs were also available, with options for a white or black roof depending on the trim. The interior color choices expanded with higher trims, offering combinations like black with blue accents or Sky Cool Gray, and sportier options like Adrenaline Red. The interior design was both stylish and functional, with the Blue accents complementing the Galaxy Gray exterior.

The 2023 Honda Pilot underwent a complete redesign, presenting a more rugged and substantial appearance. Its upright grille and boxier styling contributed to a larger look, and it was indeed bigger than its predecessor, with increased dimensions in length, width, and height. These changes aligned well with the all-terrain-capable TrailSport model, which featured off-road enhancements like a taller ride height, unique wheels, all-terrain tires, and underbody skid plates. The interior took a more conventional approach, maintaining attractiveness and functionality. Materials quality met class expectations, and the overall design emphasized utility without sacrificing appeal. The new Pilot's tidy and utilitarian aesthetic was preferred over the previous generation, focusing on function while retaining an attractive appearance.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV featured a hands-free start, a common feature in modern EVs, allowing drivers to simply get in and go. It offered one-pedal driving, adjustable through a regenerative braking setting or drive modes like Tour, Sport, Snow/Ice, and My Mode. The single-motor, front-wheel-drive variant delivered 213 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, while the all-wheel-drive version boasted 288 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque. The Equinox EV could tow up to 1,500 pounds and offered impressive range estimates of 319 miles for FWD models and 285 for AWD. It had an 85-kWh battery, supporting DC fast charging at up to 150 kW, regaining about 77 miles of range in 10 minutes. On a Level 2 charger, it added up to 34 miles of range per hour.

The 2023 Honda Pilot was powered by a new 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. FWD was standard, with AWD available on all models and standard on the Elite and TrailSport trims. The Pilot offered quick acceleration response, with a pleasant engine hum and growl. The brake pedal was soft, suitable for a family SUV, and easy to modulate for smooth stops. The Pilot handled corners well for a three-row SUV, with noticeable but manageable body roll. It prioritized comfort over performance, with light steering effort for easy maneuvering. The TrailSport trim added off-road capabilities with increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires, maintaining on-road composure and comfort.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV, starting from the 2LT trim, included heated front seats, steering wheel, and outside mirrors. The 2LT also offered an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and an optional panoramic moonroof. The 3LT trim added power adjustments for the passenger seat, front-seat ventilation, and heated rear seats. Dual-zone climate control was limited to 3LT and above. The Equinox EV provided 39.15 inches of front headroom and 38.49 inches in the second row, with 41.65 inches of front legroom. Cargo space was 26.4 cubic feet with all seats in place, expanding to 57.2 cubic feet with the second row folded. Roof rails were standard on all but the base trim.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's interior featured a conventional design with a handy dash shelf for the front passenger. The entry-level trims had a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, while higher trims upgraded to a nine-inch display. The Elite trim's touchscreen was adequate but seemed small for the space. Primary controls were logically placed, with a large rubberized shelf for phones and a wireless charging pad. The Pilot offered clever storage solutions, including a stowable second-row center seat for easy third-row access. The second row provided ample space for adults, while the third row was less inviting but suitable for short trips. Cargo space was 22.4 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 60.1 cubic feet with the second row flat, and a maximum of 114.3 cubic feet.

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, essential for the MyChevrolet app, which offered navigation, route planning, and battery pre-conditioning.

The 2023 Honda Pilot, starting from the EX-L trim, offered a larger infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, and USB ports in every row. Higher trims included a multi-view camera system, head-up display, and a fully digital instrument panel. The infotainment system was functional with quick responses and a logical layout. Features included Honda's CabinTalk, a navigation system, Bose premium audio, remote monitoring, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The TrailSport and Elite trims had the TrailWatch camera system for off-roading awareness.

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. GM’s Teen Driver Technology was also standard, offering parental controls and a driving report card. Super Cruise and enhanced automatic parking assist were available on higher trims.

The 2023 Honda Pilot received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard Honda Sensing safety features included forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, traffic-jam assist, blind-spot monitor, adaptive cruise control, and more. Higher trims added low-speed automatic braking and parking sensors. The TrailSport and Elite trims featured surround-view and multi-view camera systems. The advanced safety features functioned well, with adaptive cruise control maintaining smooth driving.