Home Trending Star Moments 2

Consumer Reports 2025 Chevrolet Equinox: 5 Critical Redesign Flaws You Must Know Before Buying

• minute read
Contents

The Chevrolet Equinox has been a staple in the compact SUV segment for years, but the highly anticipated 2025 redesign brings a mixed bag of improvements and critical flaws, according to the latest evaluations from Consumer Reports. As of late 2025, the new model has been released with a bolder, more rugged styling, a roomier interior, and a new platform. However, initial assessments suggest that while the vehicle is "pretty good," it fails to stand out in a highly competitive class, and owners need to be aware of significant mechanical changes that could impact long-term reliability.

This deep dive uses the most current data and first-drive evaluations from Consumer Reports and related automotive experts to give you an unbiased look at the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox. We break down the new design, the controversial engine and transmission choices, and the predicted reliability outlook, especially when compared to segment leaders like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.

The 2025 Redesign: What Consumer Reports Likes and Dislikes

The 2025 model year marks the beginning of the fourth generation for the Equinox, built on a brand-new platform. The exterior styling has been completely overhauled, adopting a more aggressive, truck-like aesthetic that aligns with other modern Chevrolet SUVs. The vehicle is slightly longer and wider than its predecessor, translating directly into a more spacious and comfortable cabin.

The Positives: Space, Styling, and Standard Safety

  • Roomier Interior: The increased dimensions result in a noticeably roomier interior, which is a major win for passenger comfort and cargo capacity in the compact SUV class.
  • Bolder Styling: The new design is a clear departure from the previous generation, with a more rugged appearance, especially on the new off-road-inspired Activ trim and the sporty RS trim.
  • Standard Safety Suite (Chevy Safety Assist): All trims come standard with the comprehensive Chevy Safety Assist suite. This package includes crucial features like Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and IntelliBeam high-beam assist.
  • Improved Infotainment: The new cabin features a large 11.3-inch diagonal infotainment screen and an 11-inch diagonal driver information screen, significantly modernizing the cockpit.

The Negatives: Performance and Road Test Annoyances

Despite the physical improvements, Consumer Reports' initial evaluation noted that the Equinox is "not a standout in any area." The road test highlighted several areas where the Equinox falls short of class rivals.

  • Unremarkable Driving Dynamics: While the ride is generally comfortable, the handling is described as competent but unengaging, lacking the refined feel of competitors.
  • Engine Noise: The familiar 1.5-liter turbocharged engine can sound strained under hard acceleration, leading to a less-than-premium driving experience.
  • Fuel Economy Concerns: The 1.5T engine is criticized for having some of the poorest fuel economy in the small SUV class, a major drawback for budget-conscious buyers.

5 Critical Flaws and Reliability Warnings for the 2025 Equinox

The most significant concerns for the 2025 Equinox revolve around its mechanical heart and its long-term dependability. Consumer Reports often bases its Predicted Reliability score on historical data and new component changes, and the 2025 model introduces major gambles.

1. The Controversial Transmission Overhaul

For the 2025 model year, Chevrolet made a drastic shift in the transmission setup, a move that is a major red flag for potential owners. The Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) version now uses a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), while the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) model gets a new 8-speed automatic transmission.

CVTs are often disliked by drivers for their "rubber-band" feel and are historically a source of reliability complaints. Switching to new, unproven transmissions on both FWD and AWD models significantly increases the risk of reliability issues in the first few years of the redesign. Early reports from owner forums have already flagged "major transmission issues" as a potential problem.

2. The Underpowered 1.5T Engine Remains

The 2025 Equinox retains the same 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine from the previous generation. While adequate for city driving, this engine is noted for having the lowest horsepower in the compact SUV segment. This lack of power is especially noticeable during highway passing maneuvers or when the vehicle is fully loaded with passengers and cargo, a major disadvantage when competing against rivals with more potent powertrains.

3. Conflicting Reliability Scores and Historical Data

When assessing reliability, the picture is complicated. Previous Equinox models (specifically 2018-2024) received impressive, above-average reliability ratings from Consumer Reports, often surpassing key competitors like the Mazda CX-5 and Nissan Rogue.

However, other independent owner surveys have named the Chevrolet Equinox as the least reliable model in the compact SUV category, citing issues with the engine, transmission, and interior components. This stark contrast means buyers of the new 2025 model are facing a high degree of uncertainty regarding long-term ownership costs.

4. Persistent Auto Stop-Start Annoyance

A recurring complaint from owners of the previous generation (2024 model year) was the intrusive and often jarring Auto Stop-Start technology. This fuel-saving feature is designed to shut off the engine when the car is stopped. While Chevrolet has made improvements, if this system is not significantly refined in the 2025 model, it will continue to be a source of owner dissatisfaction.

5. High Predicted Depreciation Risk

Due to the unproven nature of a full redesign, especially one with major powertrain changes, the 2025 Equinox faces a higher risk of depreciation compared to established, highly reliable competitors. Vehicles with a history of powertrain issues or low owner satisfaction scores often see their resale value drop faster, making the Total Cost of Ownership higher over time.

Equinox vs. The Competition: Why It’s Still a Good Value

Despite the critical flaws, the Chevrolet Equinox remains a compelling option for a specific type of buyer. It is often priced aggressively, making it one of the more affordable entry points into the compact SUV segment, especially when compared to the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V.

For buyers prioritizing a comfortable ride, a spacious cabin, and a comprehensive suite of standard safety technology at a lower price point, the Equinox is worth considering. The new Safety Alert Seat, which vibrates to warn the driver of potential hazards, is a unique and highly praised feature that adds a layer of security.

However, if your primary concerns are long-term Predicted Reliability, superior fuel economy, and strong resale value, Consumer Reports would likely steer you toward the segment leaders. The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox is a gamble: a significant step forward in design and space, but a risky one in terms of its new mechanical components.

Final Verdict: Wait for the first-year reliability data to roll in. If the new CVT and 8-speed automatic transmissions prove reliable, the 2025 Equinox will be a strong value contender. Until then, proceed with caution.

Consumer Reports 2025 Chevrolet Equinox: 5 Critical Redesign Flaws You Must Know Before Buying
consumer reports chevrolet equinox
consumer reports chevrolet equinox

Detail Author:

  • Name : Jayce Satterfield PhD
  • Username : ohaag
  • Email : bailee.dicki@hotmail.com
  • Birthdate : 1988-11-12
  • Address : 1978 Zaria Dam West Orin, KY 12266-8317
  • Phone : (219) 794-4283
  • Company : Frami-Boehm
  • Job : Refrigeration Mechanic
  • Bio : Rerum ea nostrum rem et qui. Velit sed sunt fugiat aperiam magni. Non maxime sed ut et culpa.

Socials

linkedin:

instagram:

  • url : https://instagram.com/kiara.schimmel
  • username : kiara.schimmel
  • bio : Omnis neque dolor quis quas. Vel tempora ea et minus mollitia. Vitae perspiciatis ipsum aut quae.
  • followers : 2686
  • following : 451

facebook:

Random Posts