The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox enters the market with a bold new design, updated trims, and smarter technology, making it one of the most exciting compact crossovers of the year. As part of a wave of new-generation SUVs, the Equinox stands out for its practical pricing, upgraded interiors, and everyday drivability. In this Next-Gen SUV Comparison, we’ll see how it competes against segment rivals and why it could be the ideal choice for buyers seeking style, comfort, and value. If you’re exploring a Next-Gen SUV Comparison, the 2025 Equinox deserves your attention.
Overview: What’s New in the 2025 Equinox vs Tiguan
| Category | 2025 Chevrolet Equinox | 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan |
|---|---|---|
| Generation | 4th generation, new platform, rugged SUV styling | 3rd generation, built on MQB evo platform |
| Exterior Design | Bold, boxy look inspired by Traverse; LED lights, new grille | Sleeker, sporty design with sharper lines and longer wheelbase |
| Interior Updates | Redesigned cabin, 11.3” infotainment, 11” digital cluster, Google built-in | Premium materials, 12.9” touchscreen, ambient lighting, redesigned dashboard |
| Engine & Power | 1.5L turbo (175 hp, 203 lb-ft torque); CVT (FWD), 8-speed auto (AWD) | 2.0L turbo (201 hp, up to 221 lb-ft torque); 8-speed auto (standard) |
| Fuel Efficiency | Up to 26 mpg city / 28 mpg highway (FWD) | Up to 25 mpg city / 32 mpg highway (FWD) |
| Trim Options | LT, RS, new Activ trim (off-road oriented) | S, SE, SE R-Line Black, SEL R-Line (no more third-row seats) |
| Drive Options | FWD standard, AWD optional (only AWD has 8-speed auto) | FWD standard, AWD optional with 4Motion system |
| Tech Features | Google built-in, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, heated seats, digital displays | Larger screen, ambient lighting, wireless charging, mood selector |
| Target Audience | Budget-focused families seeking practical performance and rugged style | Tech-savvy buyers looking for upscale comfort and stronger engine performance |
Trim Levels & Pricing – Which SUV Gives Better Value?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox offers three well-defined trims: LT, RS, and the new off-road-inspired Activ. Pricing starts at $28,600 for the LT, while the RS and Activ are both priced around $33,000, delivering a solid mix of tech and comfort. This new generation simplifies the lineup while keeping essential features standard. In contrast, the Volkswagen Tiguan begins at $29,495 and stretches up to $39,755 for the top-end SEL R-Line. Although it offers more premium features in its higher trims, the Equinox presents a better deal in this SUV Value Comparison, especially for budget-conscious buyers who don’t want to compromise on performance or practicality. Overall, the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox stands out as the more affordable and balanced choice in this competitive SUV Value Comparison.
Engine & Performance – Power, Drive & Fuel Economy Compared
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox retains its 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, which produces 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. When equipped with all-wheel drive, it uses an 8-speed automatic transmission, whereas front-wheel drive variants use a CVT. In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan gets a more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that produces 201 horsepower and up to 221 lb-ft of torque in AWD variants. In this engine performance comparison, the Tiguan boasts faster acceleration and smoother power delivery, whereas the Equinox prioritizes balanced driving characteristics and everyday efficiency. The Equinox achieves up to 26 MPG city and 28 MPG highway, whilst the Tiguan achieves up to 25 MPG city and 32 MPG highway with FWD.
Interior & Comfort – Cabin Quality, Seating & Tech Compared
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox features a new and refined cabin built for modern families. It has two digital displays: an 11.3-inch infotainment system with Google integrated in, and an 11-inch driver cluster. High-grade materials, soft-touch surfaces, and optional Evotex and microfiber suede seats improve cabin quality. With seating for five and up to 63.9 cubic feet of cargo capacity, the Equinox is a practical family SUV designed for daily use.
In this SUV interior comparison, the 2025 Tiguan provides a more luxury experience with features such as leather seats, massaging function, ambient lighting, and a 15-inch touchscreen display. Both models have impressive modern tech features, but the Equinox strikes a mix between price and comfort, making it stand out in terms of cabin quality and utility.
Infotainment & Connectivity – Which SUV Feels More Modern?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox offers an impressive suite of tech features that align well with today’s digital lifestyle. It comes equipped with an 11.3-inch infotainment display powered by Google built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a standard 11-inch digital driver display. The system is intuitive and designed for real-time connectivity, making it ideal for daily driving. In this infotainment comparison, the Volkswagen Tiguan steps ahead with a larger 12.9-inch touchscreen and an optional 15-inch display on top trims. It includes a modern digital cockpit, wireless charging, and ambient mood lighting with multiple color options. While both SUVs deliver strong connectivity features, the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox provides a more user-friendly and responsive interface, making it a top contender in the world of modern SUV tech.
Safety & Driver‑Assistance – Which SUV Offers Better Protection?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox raises the bar in SUV safety with a comprehensive list of standard and optional features designed to protect passengers in every scenario. Chevy Safety Assist now includes Forward Collision Alert, Lane Keep Assist, Front Pedestrian Braking, and IntelliBeam automatic high beams as standard. For 2025, it adds advanced systems like Intersection Auto Emergency Braking, Blind Zone Steering Assist, and Rear Cross-Traffic Braking. These enhanced driver-assistance features provide better real-world safety, especially for families looking for secure travel in a family SUV protection package. Also included are Adaptive Cruise Control, a Safety Alert Seat, and HD Surround Vision for safer maneuvering.
In this SUV safety comparison, the Volkswagen Tiguan 2025 brings strong competition with its standard IQ.DRIVE system. It includes features like Lane Centering, Adaptive Cruise Control, Emergency Assist, and Travel Assist, offering semi-autonomous driving capabilities. With ten airbags, Forward Collision Warning, and Autonomous Emergency Braking, Tiguan ensures high-level crash prevention. However, while Tiguan spreads its tech evenly across all trims, the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox gives you more cutting-edge modern safety tech even at the lower trim levels—making it a smarter, value-focused choice for safety-conscious buyers.
Exterior Design & Styling – Which One Turns More Heads?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox exudes a rugged, modern attitude thanks to its aggressive lines, high ground clearance, and squared-off design elements inspired by larger SUVs like the Traverse. Its revised front fascia, Y-shaped LED headlamps, and athletic proportions give it a strong street appearance. The new Activ variant includes all-terrain tires and tough accents, while the RS model has black mirrors, dark badging, and wider 20-inch wheels. The Equinox’s striking form and expressive features create a strong, bold SUV design that shines out in every environment.
In comparison, the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan has a more polished and streamlined look, including smooth body lines and a modern front-end design. It includes a full-width LED light strip, chrome highlights, and an optional lighted VW badge. The more sporty SEL R-Line model adds 20-inch wheels, gloss black trim, and dynamic stylistic elements. In this SUV style contrast, the Tiguan represents European elegance, whereas the Equinox stresses toughness and attitude. Both cater to different tastes, but each SUV’s sleek crossover design is guaranteed to draw attention.
Final Verdict – Which SUV Should You Choose in 2025?
Who Should Buy the Equinox
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox is ideal for buyers seeking a reliable and affordable SUV in 2025 with practical features and good fuel efficiency. It’s especially suited for small families, daily commuters, and anyone who prioritizes value and safety over high-end luxury. With a starting price of $28,600 and a choice of well-equipped trims like LT and Activ, the Equinox delivers balanced performance and essential tech, making it a smart pick in this compact SUV comparison.
Who Should Go for the Tiguan
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan caters to drivers who prefer a premium feel, stronger engine performance, and a more refined ride. It offers upscale interior finishes, a powerful turbo engine, and advanced driver-assist features, making it a great choice for urban professionals and long-distance travelers. Though slightly higher in price, the Tiguan’s European styling and technology-rich cabin offer strong value for those willing to invest a bit more.
Best Trim Recommendation for Each
For the Equinox, the LT trim is the best value, offering modern tech and comfort at a competitive price, while the Activ trim suits those looking for rugged styling. In the Tiguan lineup, the SE R-Line Black trim stands out as the perfect balance of luxury, performance, and style, making it a solid pick in the SUV trim recommendation category.
FAQ
1. Which SUV is better in 2025 – Chevrolet Equinox or Volkswagen Tiguan?
Both are competitive, but the 2025 Equinox offers better value for money, while the Tiguan delivers a more premium driving experience.
2. What is the starting price of the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox and Volkswagen Tiguan?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox starts at around $28,600, whereas the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan starts at $29,495.
3. Which SUV has better fuel economy – Equinox or Tiguan?
The 2025 Tiguan offers slightly better highway mileage, but the Equinox provides better fuel efficiency with AWD.
4. Is the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox good for families?
Yes, it has a spacious interior, high safety ratings, and practical features, making it a great choice for family use.
5. What are the best trims to buy in the 2025 Equinox and Tiguan?
The Equinox LT or Activ trims offer strong value, while the Tiguan SE R-Line Black trim combines luxury and performance.
Conclusion:-
When comparing the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox and the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan, it becomes clear that each SUV serves a distinct purpose. The Equinox focuses on practicality, competitive pricing, and family-friendly features, making it a reliable daily driver with modern safety and infotainment at an accessible price. On the other hand, the Tiguan delivers more horsepower, a refined interior, and upscale tech, targeting buyers who prioritize a premium experience in the compact SUV space.
In this compact SUV comparison, the Equinox stands out with value-packed trims like LT and Activ, offering great comfort, fuel economy, and essential driver-assistance features. Meanwhile, the Tiguan SE R-Line Black trim impresses with its design, performance, and smart convenience tech. Whether you seek rugged utility or sophisticated flair, both models in 2025 represent strong contenders for anyone looking to invest in a smart, safe, and stylish compact SUV.