I’ve always been drawn to SUVs for their versatility, comfort, and ability to handle everything from daily commutes to weekend adventures. When it came time to choose between the 2025 Buick Envision and the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox, I found myself weighing their features, performance, and overall vibe.
My goal with this article is to share my experience comparing these two compact SUVs, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you decide which one fits your lifestyle. From design to tech, I’ll break it all down with a comparison table, pros and cons, and answers to common questions.
Comparison Table: 2025 Buick Envision vs. 2025 Chevrolet Equinox
| Feature | Buick Envision | Chevrolet Equinox |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $37,895 | $29,995 |
| Engine | 2.0L Turbo I4 (228 HP, 258 lb-ft) | 1.5L Turbo I4 (175 HP, 203 lb-ft) |
| Fuel Economy (City/Hwy/Combined) | 22/28/25 MPG | 26/31/28 MPG |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Cargo Volume (Behind 2nd Row/Max) | 25.2/52.7 cu-ft | 29.9/63.9 cu-ft |
| Passenger Volume | 100.4 cu-ft | 103.5 cu-ft |
| Infotainment Screen | 10.2-inch standard | 7-inch standard, 8-inch available |
| Safety Features | 7 airbags, Rear Cross Traffic Braking | 6 airbags, Rear Cross Traffic Alert (optional) |
| Warranty | 36 mo/60,000 km comprehensive, 60 mo/100,000 km powertrain | 36 mo/60,000 km comprehensive, 60 mo/100,000 km powertrain |
| Key Unique Features | QuietTuning, driver seat massage, Amazon Alexa Built-In | Larger cargo space, Chevrolet Infotainment 3 |
My First Impressions: Style and Presence
Walking up to the 2025 Buick Envision, I was struck by its sleek, sophisticated look. Its bold grille, sharp LED headlights, and chrome accents give it a premium, almost luxurious vibe that feels a step above typical compact SUVs. It’s like the Envision is dressed for a night out, exuding elegance without being flashy. The Sport Touring trim, with its 20-inch black aluminum wheels and sporty stitching, adds a touch of flair that makes it stand out in a crowded parking lot.
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox, on the other hand, has a more athletic, rugged charm. Its sculpted body and aggressive grille scream confidence and approachability. It’s the kind of SUV that looks ready for a spontaneous road trip or a quick run to the hardware store. While it doesn’t have the Envision’s upscale polish, the Equinox’s design feels practical and unpretentious, especially in trims like the Redline Edition, which adds sporty black accents.
Choosing between them comes down to your aesthetic preference. If you lean toward refined elegance, the Envision might catch your eye. If you prefer a bold, functional look, the Equinox delivers.
Performance: Power Under the Hood
When I slid behind the wheel of the Envision, its 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine felt lively.
With 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, it offers a peppy, responsive drive.
Merging onto highways or passing slower traffic felt effortless, and the nine-speed automatic transmission shifted smoothly, making every drive feel polished.
The Envision’s available all-wheel drive (AWD) adds confidence on slick roads, though its fuel economy—22 MPG city, 28 MPG highway—leans slightly thirstier than its rival.
The Equinox, powered by a 1.5L turbo four-cylinder, produces 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. It’s adequate for daily driving, but I noticed it lacked the Envision’s punch during quick accelerations. The six-speed automatic transmission gets the job done but feels less refined than the Envision’s nine-speed.
However, the Equinox shines in fuel efficiency, offering 26 MPG city and 31 MPG highway, which is a win for budget-conscious drivers. Like the Envision, it offers AWD for better traction.
Both SUVs can tow up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped, so light trailers or small boats are within reach. For me, the Envision’s extra power made it more fun to drive, but the Equinox’s fuel savings could sway you if you’re watching your wallet.
Interior: Comfort and Craftsmanship
Stepping into the Envision’s cabin felt like entering a premium lounge.
Buick’s QuietTuning technology keeps road noise at bay, creating a serene environment.
The leather seats, wood accents, and available driver’s seat massage function (on higher trims like Avenir) added a touch of luxury I didn’t expect in this class.
The dashboard, angled toward the driver, makes the cockpit feel intuitive and driver-centric.
The standard 10.2-inch touchscreen is crisp and responsive, and features like Amazon Alexa Built-In and a nine-speaker Bose audio system elevate the experience.
The Equinox’s interior, while comfortable, leans more utilitarian. Its cabin is spacious, with 103.5 cubic feet of passenger volume compared to the Envision’s 100.4. The seats are supportive, but the materials—mostly cloth or basic leather—don’t match the Envision’s upscale feel.
The standard 7-inch touchscreen (upgradable to 8 inches) runs Chevrolet’s Infotainment 3 system, which is user-friendly but less sophisticated than the Envision’s setup. Wireless smartphone charging and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto are standard, keeping you connected.
Cargo space is where the Equinox pulls ahead. With 29.9 cubic feet behind the second row (versus the Envision’s 25.2) and 63.9 cubic feet with seats folded (versus 52.7), it’s the better choice for hauling gear. I could easily fit a weekend’s worth of camping equipment in the Equinox, while the Envision required a bit more Tetris-like packing.
Technology: Staying Connected
The Envision’s tech suite impressed me with its 10.2-inch touchscreen, which feels like a mini command center.
The interface is intuitive, and standard features like wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In make it easy to stay connected.
The available head-up display projects speed and navigation onto the windshield, letting me keep my eyes on the road.
The optional nine-speaker Bose system delivers crystal-clear sound, perfect for my road trip playlists.
The Equinox keeps up with a solid tech package, though it’s less flashy. The Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system is straightforward, with a 7-inch or optional 8-inch touchscreen.
It supports wireless smartphone integration, but lacks the Envision’s head-up display and Alexa integration. The standard six-speaker audio system is decent, but it doesn’t match the Bose’s richness. For tech-savvy drivers, the Envision feels a bit more cutting-edge.
Safety: Peace of Mind on the Road
Safety is a priority for me, and both SUVs deliver strong credentials. The Envision comes with seven airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag, and standard features like Rear Cross Traffic Braking, which automatically stops the vehicle to avoid collisions while reversing. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gives it a 5-star overall rating, though its 2025 crash test cycle is incomplete. Buick’s QuietTuning also enhances focus by reducing cabin noise.
The Equinox also earns a 5-star NHTSA rating, with six airbags and standard safety features like Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, and a Rear Vision Camera. However, Rear Cross Traffic Alert is optional and doesn’t include braking, which feels like a miss compared to the Envision. Both SUVs offer available front parking sensors and adaptive cruise control, but the Envision’s standard safety tech feels more comprehensive.
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Pros and Cons: Breaking It Down
Buick Envision Pros
- Powerful Engine: The 2.0L turbo engine’s 228 horsepower makes for a thrilling drive.
- Luxurious Interior: Premium materials, QuietTuning, and a driver’s seat massage option elevate comfort.
- Advanced Tech: A 10.2-inch touchscreen, Alexa Built-In, and optional head-up display feel high-end.
- Safety Edge: Seven airbags and standard Rear Cross Traffic Braking provide extra peace of mind.
- Refined Design: Sleek lines and chrome accents give it a premium, upscale look.
Buick Envision Cons
- Higher Price: Starting at $37,895, it’s pricier than the Equinox.
- Less Cargo Space: 25.2/52.7 cubic feet is smaller than the Equinox’s capacity.
- Fuel Economy: 22/28 MPG is less efficient than the Equinox’s 26/31 MPG.
- Incomplete Crash Data: 2025 crash tests are not fully available, which might concern some buyers.
Chevrolet Equinox Pros
- Affordable Price: Starting at $29,995, it’s a budget-friendly option.
- Better Fuel Economy: 26/31 MPG saves money at the pump.
- Spacious Cargo Area: 29.9/63.9 cubic feet makes it ideal for hauling gear.
- Roomy Interior: 103.5 cubic feet of passenger volume offers more space.
- Solid Safety: 5-star NHTSA rating and standard safety features ensure reliability.
Chevrolet Equinox Cons
- Less Power: The 1.5L engine’s 175 horsepower feels underpowered compared to the Envision.
- Basic Interior: Materials and design lack the Envision’s luxurious feel.
- Fewer Standard Features: Some safety and tech features, like Rear Cross Traffic Alert, are optional.
- Less Refined Transmission: The six-speed automatic isn’t as smooth as the Envision’s nine-speed.
Driving Experience: On the Road
Test-driving the Envision was a treat. Its turbo engine and nine-speed transmission made acceleration smooth and confident, whether I was navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. The suspension soaked up bumps well, and the QuietTuning tech kept the cabin peaceful, even at higher speeds. The driver-centric cockpit and available massage seats made long drives feel indulgent.
The Equinox’s drive was solid but less exciting. Its 1.5L engine handled daily commutes fine, but it felt strained during quick maneuvers. The ride was comfortable, with a suspension that managed rough roads well, but the cabin wasn’t as quiet as the Envision’s. The Equinox’s larger cargo area was a plus when I tossed in groceries and sports gear, but the overall experience felt more functional than fun.
Pricing and Value: What’s Your Budget?
Price is often the deciding factor, and here’s where the Equinox shines. Starting at $29,995, it’s nearly $8,000 less than the Envision’s $37,895. For budget-conscious buyers, the Equinox offers a lot of SUV for the money, especially with its fuel efficiency and cargo space. However, you might miss out on the Envision’s premium features unless you opt for higher trims, which can push the Equinox’s price closer to $36,645.
The Envision, while pricier, justifies its cost with a more powerful engine, luxurious interior, and advanced tech. If you value a premium experience and don’t mind spending extra, the Envision feels like a step up. Both SUVs offer similar warranties—36 months/60,000 km comprehensive and 60 months/100,000 km powertrain—so maintenance costs should be comparable.
Who Are These SUVs For?
The Envision is perfect for drivers who crave a touch of luxury without jumping to a full-blown luxury brand. Its powerful engine, upscale interior, and advanced tech make it ideal for those who enjoy a refined driving experience. If you’re someone who loves gadgets like Alexa Built-In or appreciates a quiet cabin, the Envision will feel like a treat.
The Equinox, meanwhile, is a practical choice for families or budget-focused buyers. Its spacious cargo area, better fuel economy, and lower price point make it a versatile daily driver. If you need room for gear or want to save on gas, the Equinox is tough to beat.
My Verdict: Which One Wins?
After spending time with both SUVs, I found myself torn. The Envision won me over with its power, luxury, and tech, making every drive feel special. But the Equinox’s affordability, fuel efficiency, and cargo space are hard to ignore, especially if you’re prioritizing practicality. Your choice depends on what matters most: luxury and performance or value and utility. Test-drive both to see which one sparks joy for you.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
It depends on your priorities. The Envision offers more power and luxury, while the Equinox is more affordable and fuel-efficient with larger cargo space.
The Chevrolet Equinox is the closest equivalent to the Buick Envision, both being compact SUVs under General Motors with similar features but different focuses.
Buick leans toward luxury and refinement, while Chevy focuses on value and practicality. The Envision feels more upscale; the Equinox is budget-friendly.
The Buick Envision offers more power and luxury, while alternatives like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4 provide similar value with different strengths.
Conclusion: Your Road, Your Choice
As I wrap up my journey comparing the 2025 Buick Envision and Chevrolet Equinox, I’m reminded that choosing an SUV is deeply personal. The Envision’s luxurious cabin, powerful engine, and tech-forward features make it a standout for those seeking a premium experience. Meanwhile, the Equinox’s affordability, fuel efficiency, and spacious cargo area make it a practical choice for everyday needs. You can’t go wrong with either, but your priorities—whether luxury or value—will guide you. Take a test drive, feel the difference, and pick the SUV that matches your vibe.
