Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs Chevrolet Equinox EV

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 model showcased more defined lines, a thicker body-colored C-pillar, and a sleeker grille. The front fascia was more body-colored, and the rear design was more decisive, featuring hexagonal shapes and a light bar echoing the front. Standard 19-inch aluminum wheels were available on the 1LT and 2LT trims, while 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 available, with options for a white or black roof depending on the trim. Inside, the base model was limited to black, but higher trims offered additional color choices, including sporty options like Adrenaline Red.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid maintained a familiar appearance with minimal changes for the year, introducing a new Cypress Green paint color and standard power-folding exterior mirrors on higher trims. The design was characterized by exaggerated forms, with scowling headlights and dramatically sculpted rear forms. The interior continued this theme with oversized elements like large air vents and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. However, the multi-layered dashboard's mismatched textures and reflections made the interior visually overwhelming. Despite these design choices, the Highlander Hybrid's cabin was quiet on the road, thanks to acoustic front window glass in higher trims. The interior quality was questionable, with controls and storage areas feeling inexpensive and poorly designed.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV featured a hands-free start, allowing drivers to simply get in and go. It offered one-pedal driving through a regenerative braking setting or drive modes like Tour, Sport, Snow/Ice, and My Mode. The single-motor, front-wheel-drive variant produced 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 had an impressive range, with the EPA estimating 319 miles for FWD models and 285 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 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with two electric motor-generators, producing 243 combined horsepower. The electric motors assisted with acceleration and allowed for low-speed electric-only driving. However, the gas engine's 175 lb-ft of torque limited high-speed passing power. The Highlander Hybrid could tow up to 3,500 pounds, but power was limited, and brakes faded during mountain driving. It offered Eco, Normal, and Sport driving modes, with AWD models featuring a Trail mode. The Predictive Efficient Drive system aimed to maximize fuel efficiency, but our test vehicle averaged 28.7 mpg, below the EPA's 35 mpg estimate. The Highlander Hybrid prioritized comfort and quietness over engaging driving dynamics.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV offered heated front seats, steering wheel, and outside mirrors starting at the 2LT trim level. Higher trims added features like front-seat ventilation and heated rear seats. The Equinox EV provided 39.15 inches of front headroom and 41.65 inches of front legroom, with a total cargo volume of 57.2 cubic feet with the second row folded down. Roof rails were standard on all but the base trim.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid accommodated seven or eight passengers, with most models featuring second-row captain's chairs. The third-row seat was best for occasional use. Standard equipment included three-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain's chairs. The Highlander Hybrid offered 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. However, the center armrest storage console design was unnecessarily complex, and the optional all-weather cargo mat compromised utility.

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, offering navigation, route planning, and battery pre-conditioning through the MyChevrolet app.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid introduced new technology, with upper trims featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a new Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment system. The system offered over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and several connected service plans. The Drive Connect service plan provided an Intelligent Assistant, cloud-based navigation, and live human assistance. The test vehicle included a head-up display and an 11-speaker JBL sound system.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and more. It also featured rear park assist, reverse automatic braking, and adaptive cruise control. Super Cruise, a hands-free highway-driving assist system, was available starting with the 2LT trim.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, offering adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and more. Hybrids included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Limited and Platinum trims added parking sensors and a surround-view camera. The Highlander Hybrid received excellent crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.