2025 Chevy Equinox EV Trim Levels: 1LT, 2LT, 3LT, 2RS, and 3RS

When I first sat behind the wheel of the 2024 Chevy Equinox EV, it was immediately clear that this electric SUV redefines affordability and accessibility in the growing EV market. If you’re a forward-thinking driver excited by the shift to EVs but concerned about high costs or limited functionality, this guide is for you. From trim-level explanations to charging performance and ownership insights, we’ll look at why this model shines in the competitive EV segment.

The Equinox EV is Chevy’s strong response to the need for practical, tech-enabled EVs without premium pricing. With a starting price that undercuts most rivals, better efficiency, and advanced features, the Equinox EV cements itself as a leader in the compact electric SUV category.

2025 Chevy Equinox EV Trims: Pricing Breakdown and Upgrade Value

The 2024 Chevy Equinox EV is available in five trim levels: 1LT, 2LT, 3LT, 2RS, and 3RS. Each one adds unique features, style, and technology to match the needs of different drivers. Let’s look at the details:

Trim Level Overview and Pricing

1LT (Base Model) – Starting around $30,000 Ideal for EV beginners or those on a budget, it includes all basic EV necessities, such as a 250-mile range, an 11-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and 19-inch wheels.

2LT – Starting around $34,000 A step up, the 2LT adds comfort features like heated seats and steering wheel, optional all-wheel drive (eAWD), and advanced safety systems.

3LT – Starting around $37,000 Adds luxury to the package with ventilated seats, 20-inch wheels, and dual-zone climate control, making rides more comfortable.

2RS – Starting around $40,000 A sportier version. Includes enhanced design, tech improvements like a head-up display, and additional driver assistance features.

3RS – Starting around $44,000 Fully packed with Chevy’s top tech. Comes with 21-inch wheels, Super Cruise autonomous driving, and 19.2 kW Level 2 charging for faster home charging.

What Sets These Trim Levels Apart: Feature Upgrades Explained

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1LT: The Entry-Level Workhorse

The 1LT is great for people new to EVs. It’s affordable without leaving out practicality. Standard features include: Range: 250 miles (FWD configuration). Technology: 11-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Google Assistant compatibility. Safety: Chevy Safety Assist suite with features like automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and forward collision alerts. Interior Design: Cloth seats, manual adjustments, and single-zone automatic climate control.

2LT: Affordable Luxury with Added Tech

The 2LT begins to show the Equinox EV as a more refined electric SUV at a middle-level price: Range: 300 miles (FWD) or 280 miles (with optional eAWD). Heated Features: Heated seats, mirrors, and steering wheel for improved comfort. Upgrade Availability: Selectable eAWD adds 288 horsepower and boosts traction.

3LT: Comfort Level Maxed Out

For those who prioritize convenience and interior design, the 3LT provides: Interior Enhancements: Power-adjustable driver’s and passenger seats, ventilated front seats, and optional perforated leather upholstery. Exterior: A more polished look with a black-painted grille panel and 20-inch wheels.

2RS and 3RS: Sporty Performance Meets High-Tech

The RS trims are all about style and advanced tech. Key highlights include: Super Cruise: Standard on the 3RS. This hands-free driving system makes long drives much easier. 21-Inch Aluminum Wheels: These add a sporty look and better handling. Reverse Braking Assist: Automatically stops the vehicle while reversing to avoid collisions. Charging: The 3RS includes the 19.2 kW onboard charger for faster home charging (adds 51 miles of range per hour).

Performance and Towing: How It Matches Your Lifestyle

The Equinox EV is well-suited for city drivers and occasional adventurers. Here’s a closer look at its performance:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) Models

Power Output: 210 horsepower, 242 lb-ft of torque. Zero to Sixty MPH: Around 8 seconds, great for normal driving conditions.

eAWD (Electric All-Wheel Drive) Configurations

Power Boost: 288 horsepower, 333 lb-ft of torque. Optional eAWD, available on 2LT trims and higher, provides added power for handling rough weather or uneven streets.

Towing Capacity

Capable of towing up to 1,500 pounds, the Equinox EV can handle small trailers, kayaks, or other light loads for your lifestyle needs.

Charging Speeds: Why Equinox EV Outpaces Rivals

Charging is a critical point for EV buyers. The Equinox EV excels here with its options:

Level 1 (120V)

An affordable and simple option for daily use but slower. Adds about 3-5 miles of range per hour.

Level 2 (Home or Public Chargers)

Standard 11.5 kW Charger (1LT, 2LT, 3LT): Replenishes 34 miles per hour, taking about 8-10 hours for a full charge. High-Efficiency 19.2 kW Charger (3RS): Refills 51 miles per hour, reducing charging time to 4-5 hours for a full charge. More about EV charging of equinox here

DC Fast Charging (Public Stations)

Supports 150 kW fast charging, adding 70 miles of range in just 10 minutes. Perfect for longer trips with short stops.

Ownership Costs and EV Incentives

Though EVs usually seem expensive upfront, the Equinox EV offers a cost-effective ownership experience with savings over time.

Federal and State Incentives

Federal Savings: Eligible for up to $7,500 in federal tax credits. Local Benefits: Many states offer utility rebates, reduced costs for Level 2 charger installations, and other savings.

Operating Costs

Lower Maintenance: EVs, including the Equinox, don’t require parts like oil filters or traditional transmissions. This saves 30-40% on yearly maintenance compared to gasoline SUVs.

Electricity vs. Gasoline

Charging at home costs significantly less per mile than gasoline. On average, a full charge at home may cost around $5-$8.

How Does the Equinox EV Compete with Rivals?

The Chevy Equinox EV doesn’t just focus on being low-cost; it addresses some of the shortcomings of competitors:

Tesla Model Y

Price: The Model Y starts above $45,000, while the Equinox EV starts at $30,000. Charging: Tesla has faster networks but primarily relies on proprietary chargers. The Equinox EV, with its 150 kW fast charging, offers more flexibility on standard EV networks.

Ford Mustang Mach-E

Cargo Space: Both vehicles offer similar space (approximately 57 cubic feet), but the Equinox is priced $8,000+ lower. Range: The Equinox trims closely match the Mach-E on mileage, making it more beginner-friendly for EV shoppers.

The Verdict: Which Trim Should You Pick?

Best Value Trim: 2LT The 2LT is the best choice for budget-conscious buyers wanting advanced safety features, optional eAWD, and up to 300 miles of range. Heated seats and an 11-inch touchscreen sweeten the deal.

Best for Tech and Innovation: 3RS If you want cutting-edge tech like Super Cruise, rapid charging, and better styling, the 3RS offers the most for its price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Chevy Equinox EV qualify for the federal tax credit? Yes, most trims qualify for up to $7,500 in federal EV tax credits.

Is home installation for Level 2 charging complicated? Not really. Installations usually cost less than $2,000, with some buyers receiving rebates that lower costs to $500-$1,000.

How’s the warranty coverage? The Equinox EV includes an 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty and Chevy’s standard 3-year/36,000-mile warranty.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 Chevy Equinox EV shows how accessible electric vehicles have become in recent years. It mixes affordability, practical charging options, and modern driver aids to provide a complete electric SUV experience. Whether you’re looking at the basics with the 1LT or premium features with the 3RS, this model makes EV ownership more approachable than ever before. As someone watching the fast-moving EV market, I can confidently say that the Equinox EV is a strong competitor and trendsetter in its category.