The Chevy Equinox EV starting at $34,995 was supposed to be GM's mass-market EV moment. The Hyundai Kona Electric is smaller, nimbler, and offers solid range in a compact package. Both target buyers who want to go electric without breaking the bank.
Chevrolet Equinox EV
The Equinox EV is the better buy for most buyers — more space, competitive range, and a lower starting price that hits the sweet spot for the federal tax credit. The Kona Electric is the right choice if you want a smaller, sportier urban EV.
Specs Comparison
| Spec | Chevrolet Equinox EV | Hyundai Kona Electric |
|---|---|---|
| EPA Range | 319 mi (LR RWD) | 261 mi |
| Peak Charge Speed | 150 kW | 101 kW |
| 0-60 mph | 6.0 sec | 6.4 sec |
| Starting MSRP | $34,995 | $33,550 |
| Cargo (max) | 57 cu ft | 25 cu ft |
| Battery Warranty | 8yr/100K mi | 10yr/100K mi |
| Connector | NACS | CCS/NACS |
Range and Charging
The Equinox EV Long Range RWD posts 319 miles EPA — excellent for a $35K EV. DC fast charging peaks at 150 kW, adding 70 miles in about 10 minutes. It uses a NACS port standard, giving it Supercharger access. That's a huge advantage over older EVs.
The Kona Electric posts 261 miles EPA. Its 101 kW DC fast charging is the honest weak point — it's slow by 2026 standards. A 10-80% charge takes roughly 43 minutes. For daily commuting it's fine; for road trips it becomes a planning challenge.
Interior and Space
The Equinox EV is a proper crossover — 57 cubic feet of cargo space with seats folded, a comfortable rear seat, and a large 17.7-inch touchscreen on upper trims. The interior feels like a $40K car, not a budget EV. The Ultium platform delivers a flat floor and open feel.
The Kona Electric is compact — 25 cubic feet of cargo space and a rear seat that's snug for tall adults. It suits urban singles or couples. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen is capable and Hyundai's UI is clean. Just don't expect SUV-level space.
Value and Incentives
The Equinox EV 1LT starts at $34,995 and qualifies for the full $7,500 federal tax credit when assembled in North America — bringing effective cost to $27,495. That's an extraordinary value proposition for 319 miles of range.
The Kona Electric starts at $33,550 and may qualify for the tax credit depending on assembly location. At similar effective prices, the Equinox's larger size and longer range tip the scales.
Driving Feel and Daily Use
The Equinox EV rides smoothly — it's tuned for comfort over sportiness. Visibility is good, the rearview camera is sharp, and everyday driving is unremarkable in the best way. It feels like a regular Equinox that happens to be electric.
The Kona Electric has a sportier feel — lighter, more responsive steering, and a fun character that the Equinox lacks. Car and Driver found it more engaging to drive in urban settings. It's not fast (0-60 in 6.4 sec), but it feels alive.
Chevrolet Equinox EV Strengths
- 319-mile EPA range — exceptional for a sub-$35K EV
- NACS port standard — Supercharger access out of the box
- Qualifies for $7,500 federal tax credit
Hyundai Kona Electric Strengths
- Sportier driving feel — more engaging in urban settings
- Hyundai's reliability reputation and 10yr/100K battery warranty
- Slightly lower starting price
Chevrolet Equinox EV Weaknesses
- Bland driving dynamics — comfort-focused, not engaging
- GM's Ultium charging network still smaller than Tesla's
- Some early Equinox EV owners reported software bugs at launch
Hyundai Kona Electric Weaknesses
- 101 kW DC fast charging — slowest in the class
- Compact size limits cargo and rear-seat practicality
- 261-mile range trails the Equinox EV significantly
Best For
- a: Budget-conscious families who want maximum range, space, and tax credit value
- b: Urban drivers who want a smaller, sportier EV and trust the Hyundai brand
FAQ
Does the Equinox EV actually qualify for the full $7,500 credit?
Yes, for most buyers — the 1LT at $34,995 is well under the $80K SUV cap, and the Equinox EV is assembled in North America. Income limits apply.
Is the Kona Electric good for road trips?
Manageable but not ideal — the 101 kW charging speed means longer stops. For commuting and weekend trips within 100 miles, it's fine. Long road trips require more planning.
How does the Equinox EV compare to the Tesla Model Y?
The Model Y has 320 miles of range and the Supercharger network. The Equinox EV is roughly $10K cheaper and qualifies for the tax credit. For family-focused buyers on a budget, the Equinox EV is a legitimate alternative.