Equinox or Equinox EV: What’s the Best Choice for Albany Drivers?

You see more and more of them on the highway. Electric vehicles are taking the industry by storm, and if you’re in the market for a new car, you may be wondering whether you should jump aboard the EV train and ride the wave of ultimate sustainability. As more of our favorite models are being offered with electric powertrains, it’s only natural to be curious; however, don’t think that the gas-powered originals don’t have something huge to offer to the ride. Take the Chevy Equinox, for example, as this compact SUV continues to be a bestseller for the brand year after year despite other electric options being available in its segment.

If you’re interested in a Chevy Equinox for sale in Albany, DePaula Chevrolet has the selection you need when it comes to elevating your travels, whether taking the kids to Crossgates Mall or trekking down the highway for work. But like many of its rivals, the Equinox has an electric version available. So, should you opt for the Equinox or Equinox EV? Let’s explore both and see where your preferences lie.

When Efficiency Matters…

Cruising down I-87, it helps to have a vehicle that can take on any travel challenge posed, including unexpected delays, long commutes, and stop-and-go traffic. The most significant advantage of the Equinox lineup, whether you choose gas or electric, is that this nameplate is exceptionally fuel-efficient. The gas-powered Equinox is able to get an EPA-estimated 26 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway in its front-wheel drive (FWD) configuration, which allows it to take on any type of travel scenario you can envision throughout Albany. The all-new Equinox EV offers a chart-topping range compared to similar EVs in its class, being able to travel an estimated 319 miles fully charged on a single motor, allowing you to take extra-long road trips across the state without worrying about stopping and charging up.

The gas-powered Equinox showcases a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which clocks in at 175 hp, a much-appreciated power boost for everyday Albany commuters hurrying downtown. If you want a little more pep in your step, the Equinox EV comes with an 85-kWh battery, which makes 213 hp on a single-motor setup and 288 hp on dual motors. The extra horsepower offered by the Equinox EV is an excellent solution for long-term trips across the state when coupled with that fantastic range. Conversely, many drivers who focus on daily commuting in the city might be pretty happy with what the gas-powered option offers, especially when used for more practical travel scenarios.

Not only can you enjoy an efficient journey in both the Equinox and the Equinox EV, but ride quality is enjoyable in both as well. The Equinox’s compact stature makes it a breeze to maneuver through busy city streets, as well as open expanses of highway, and when it comes to traversing the elements, available all-wheel drive capabilities on both come in handy. It really all comes down to preference. If you are more interested in a gas-powered vehicle, the Equinox provides an efficient and stable ride, regardless of road condition. If you’re interested in exploring what an EV offers, rest assured that the Equinox EV will offer you an efficient and exciting ride, with its dual motor setup able to jet from 0-60 mph in an astonishing 5.9 seconds.

When You Want to Make a Statement…

Chevy is known for providing its drivers with options, and whether you’re looking for a practical traveler for your commute to work or a stylish vehicle to turn heads around the Capital Region, you’ll find what you’re looking for in the Equinox lineup. The newest Equinox models to hit the scene feature alluring trims to capture the attention of everyone passing you by, with the RS showcasing black badging from front to back, a show-stopping black grille, a two-tone roof, and 19-inch machined wheels. The first-ever Equinox ACTIV is designed for those seeking adventure, with all-terrain tires, roof rails, and a rugged persona that can’t be ignored.

Inside, the Equinox showcases an interior cabin ambiance that’s better than it’s ever been before. Elegant accent stitching, Evotex seating materials, a heated steering wheel, heated seats, and more appealing elements await, depending on which trim you choose. You can enjoy a more athletic feel with a flat-bottom steering wheel in the RS, while the base LT showcases cozy cloth upholstery and practical convenience features to enhance its appeal with everyday drivers. In addition to being beautiful, the Equinox can handle all of the things joining you for the journey, with up to 63.9 cu.ft. of space for cargo with the seats folded down, hidden storage under the rear cargo floor, and more storage compartments throughout.

You’ll find remarkable trims available in the Equinox EV’s lineup as well, with its top-level 3RS featuring 21-inch black wheels and eye-catching elements outside. Inside, the 3RS showcases a heated flat-bottom steering wheel, ventilated front seats, and vibrant color schemes to heighten the feel of the journey. Overall, the Equinox EV has very different design details from the gas-powered version, looking very much like an authentic EV with its narrow light bars and sleek body lines, giving this model a futuristic vibe. This look may not be for everyone, so if you’re searching for a compact SUV that resembles many other vehicles traveling on Madison Avenue, you may want to stick to the gas-powered Equinox lineup. However, if you want to turn more heads as you’re traveling, the Equinox EV may just be right up your alley.

When Tech Is Non-Negotiable…

There’s plenty of innovation inside the Equinox and Equinox EV, so if tech is a priority, you’ll find it in both. They’re not quite the same, though, as the EV version offers a bit more to the ride, including a standard best-in-class 17.7-inch touchscreen display and Chevy’s exclusive Super Cruise hands-free driving capabilities. This available feature allows you to truly enjoy the ride with your Equinox EV leading the way, navigating through traffic for you on over 750,000 miles of compatible roadways across North America.

Conversely, the gas-powered Equinox provides drivers with what they need on the ride through an 11.3-inch touchscreen display, now standard for the 2025 Equinox. You’ll also find voice-activated Google built-in, wireless smartphone capabilities such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, available wireless charging, and multiple USB ports to keep your devices powered up as you sail past Corning Preserve. In addition, you’ll enjoy a fabulous suite of safety features in the Equinox and Equinox EV, allowing you to make the most of various travel situations. From backing up to parking with ease, the Equinox lineup makes it easy to travel with ultimate assurance leading the way.

Equinox vs Equinox EV

So, which Equinox is better equipped to handle your Albany travels? The truth is, both can offer you the ride you desire, no matter where you’re traveling throughout the Hudson River Valley. Both offer superior efficiency to make daily driving more enjoyable and a plethora of trims in each camp to help you create the driving experience you’ve always envisioned. Technology born of top-level innovation and engineering resides in both, all while keeping safety and convenience the number one priority.

If you’re searching for an electric vehicle that will deliver you options for design and some of the best tech on the market, the Equinox EV is a great pick. However, if you want to enjoy a gas-powered vehicle that exhibits spectacular fuel efficiency, alluring trims, and intuitive features, the Equinox continues to occupy a top spot in the compact SUV segment. No matter which Equinox model has sparked your interest, rest assured that they’re both outstanding choices for your everyday travels.