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2025 Hyundai Tucson vs Chevrolet Equinox: Which is Better?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson stands out in the compact SUV realm for its stylish design, spacious interior, and ample cargo space. Standard features include a 187-hp four-cylinder engine with FWD, upgradeable to AWD. Though acceleration is modest, the Tucson provides a comfortable ride. Hybrid and plug-in hybrid options offer more power but lack the dynamic handling of competitors like the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-50, or Volkswagen Tiguan. On the other hand, the Chevrolet Equinox’s popularity is driven by affordability rather than compelling features. Starting at just over $33K, it’s a budget-friendly choice, albeit with an aging design and underpowered 175-hp turbo-four engine. Despite lackluster acceleration, the Equinox drives well, offering ample passenger space and desirable infotainment features, making it a fair choice for those seeking an affordable SUV with a Chevy badge.
| Hyundai Tucson | Chevrolet Equinox | |
| Dimensions | 182.3 in x 73.4 in x 65.6 in | 183.1 in x 72.6 in x 65.4 in |
| Engine | 2.5L DOHC inline-4 | 1.5L turbocharged inline-4 |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 175 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | 8.8 sec | 8.0 sec |
| 0-100 MPH | 24.6 sec | 24.6 sec |
| Top-Speed | 120 mph | 125 mph |
Hyundai Tucson
Engine & Performance
A standard 187-hp 2.5L four-cylinder engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and you can opt for either FWD or AWD. The Tucson provides sufficient power for urban commutes and highway overtaking, but those with a heavy foot might find themselves craving more horsepower. While it’s not designed for high performance, the Tucson boasts confident handling, reasonably crisp steering, and a comfortable ride. What truly stands out in Tucson’s driving experience is its quiet and refined feel while cruising, imparting a touch of luxury rarely encountered in this vehicle category.
Price & Mileage
While Hyundai hasn’t confirmed whether the updated 2025 model will maintain the same trims as the 2024 Tucson, we anticipate it will. Estimated to commence at $29,000, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson is projected to achieve EPA estimates of up to 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway with FWD.
Acceleration & Features
On a test track, the AWD Limited model clocked in at 8.8 seconds for the 0-60 mph sprint. While the hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants feel more spirited, they fall short of the acceleration prowess seen in the Toyota RAV4 Prime. The 2025 Tucson boasts an enhanced infotainment system, featuring two digital screens housed in a monolithic structure that spans most of the dashboard. The central screen provides access to the radio, navigation, vehicle settings, and more. Expect Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to be standard, possibly offering wireless connectivity across all models, with optional features such as SiriusXM satellite radio and an upgraded Bose stereo system.
Chevrolet Equinox
Engine & Performance
Lagging in power and often struggling, the turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder fails to impress with its sluggish performance, being the sole option for the Equinox. Generating 175 hp, and coupled with the optional all-wheel-drive system, accelerating the Equinox to highway speeds requires a forceful push on the pedal. While the six-speed automatic transitions smoothly, it hesitates to downshift when additional power is necessary, prioritizing fuel efficiency.
Price & Mileage
With a range spanning from the budget-friendly LS to the top-tier Premier, the Equinox lineup offers value at various levels. Our preference, however, would be the mid-range RS model. Priced at $27,995 for the LS and $33,195 for the Premier, the Equinox provides versatility in its pricing. The EPA estimates the FWD Equinox to achieve 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Opting for AWD trims these ratings slightly, with a reduction of 2 and 1 mpg, respectively.
Acceleration & Features
On the track, the RS trim, equipped with AWD, took a reasonable 8.0 seconds to accelerate to 60 mph. The Equinox, characterized by its agreeable and user-friendly nature, demonstrates competent handling with accurate and direct steering. Featuring a 7.0-inch touchscreen, Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment system sits prominently on the Equinox’s dashboard, boasting quick responses and user-friendly navigation. Standard features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth for both phone and audio streaming, USB connectivity, and an auxiliary input jack. Additionally, a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot is available on all Equinox models.