How Does the New Bolt Compare to the Equinox EV?

There’s an SUV size for every driver, just as there are powertrains, features, and design elements to jive with everyone’s desires. That’s the beauty of the modern automotive market, and if you have your eye on an electric vehicle, chances are the new Chevy Bolt has intrigued you. After a brief hiatus, the Bolt is back, and you may be wondering what the 2027 model year brings to the market.

The Chevy Bolt makes its grand re-debut for the 2027 model year after a few years off the grid, making some much-needed changes and updates. If you’re interested in a Chevy Bolt for sale, you’ll like what you see in the latest Bolt models on the scene. However, if you’re wondering how these models compare with the similar Equinox EV, let North Park Chevrolet shed some light on what makes each model tick.

SUV Attitude

If you remember the previous Chevy Bolt, you probably know it wasn’t quite an SUV, save for the Bolt EUV, which made its way onto the scene a few years ago and was discontinued as well. 

No, the previous Bolt models were peppy hatchbacks; however, the new Bolt is an even peppier subcompact SUV, which is on the same playing field as its bigger brother, the Equinox EV. The Equinox EV is a compact SUV that offers a touch more space than the Bolt, but not by much.

The new Bolt not only showcases a slightly larger, SUV-like stance compared to prior models, but also mesmerizing styling, with revitalized front fascias, 17-inch aluminum wheels, and sleek bodywork from front to back. Both the Bolt and Equinox EV are small-size SUVs, perfect for daily commuters, city travelers, and small families; however, if you want a model that’s easier to park and zip through dense traffic, the Bolt is it.

All-Electric Power

The Bolt was always an electric vehicle, and it returns to the market as one as well. The Equinox debuted its all-electric model for the 2024 model year and is currently gaining momentum in the industry.

 Both of these SUVs show off a nice amount of power, with both the Bolt and the Equinox EV powering forward with just over 200 hp at the reins—up to 210 hp for the Bolt and up to 220 hp for the Equinox EV. The new Bolt comes with just one battery option for drivers, a 65-kWh battery single motor, while the Equinox EV offers two, an 85-kWh battery single or dual motor setup; the latter produces up to 300 hp, but range is slightly reduced with this extra power.

It’s nice not to be overwhelmed by your battery options with the Bolt, knowing you’ll enjoy ample power from its standard battery. You’ll also be able to take on virtually any type of road trip or commute, as the Bolt can achieve an estimated range of 255 miles. 

Although the Equinox EV offers access to all-wheel drive capabilities and the Bolt is strictly a front-wheel drive vehicle, this isn’t necessarily a feature that every driver needs. If you want ample power and satisfying range, the Bolt is a solid pick.

Trim Lineup

Both the Bolt and the Equinox EV are offered in similar trims to help drivers of all types and budgets find exactly what they need to take on their daily rides. 

RS Trim

Both are offered in the RS trim—a first for the Bolt—showcasing red and black styling elements, distinct RS badging, and a unique front grille that will be sure to capture everyone’s attention as you drive by. 

The Bolt shows off 17-inch black wheels and gloss black roof rails outside, with multi-color ambient lighting inside. At the same time, the Equinox EV RS features 21-inch black wheels and sporty touches throughout its interior and exterior, giving this compact traveler a more athletic flair.

LT and LT1 Trim

You’ll also find an entry-level trim available for both models, the LT for the Bolt and the LT1 for the Equinox EV, offering access to a cozy and intuitive cabin experience, as well as over 20 standard safety and driver assistance features to make your time on the road confident and secure. This makes it easy to get everything you want in a vehicle for a great price.

LT2 Trim

The Equinox EV has one other trim, a mid-level option called the LT2, which features optional ventilated front seats, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, available automated walk-up lighting, roof rails, and other elevated features that set it apart from the entry-level LT1.

If you want options when it comes to trims, both models offer a fine selection that’s not too overwhelming; however, the Bolt keeps it simple, and isn’t that what we need these days?

Cargo Capacity

You may assume that since the Bolt is a subcompact SUV, it is much smaller than the compact Equinox EV, but this isn’t exactly true. In fact, the Bolt offers similar cargo capacity to the Equinox EV, making this subcompact superstar a fabulous pick for many drivers seeking out a small yet accommodating vehicle.

The 2027 Bolt offers up to 56.3 cu.ft. with its rear seats folded, compared to the Equinox EV, which offers up to 57.2 cu.ft., it’s easy to see that these two models are quite similar in their cargo carrying capacities.

You’ll also find that the Bolt offers additional cargo space through the underfloor storage compartment, located under the rear cargo floor, ideal for valuables and other items you’d prefer remain out of sight. The Equinox EV offers a dual-height cargo floor to help you keep your gear more organized on board. 

All in all, it’s interesting to see that although the Equinox EV is the larger option, it doesn’t offer much more cargo volume than the smaller Bolt. So, if you’re looking for an SUV that can handle more yet don’t want to spring for a larger, more expensive compact model, the Bolt will do a fine job of accommodating everything you’re bringing along for the ride.

Budget-Friendly Options

The great news about both models is that they’re geared toward the cost-conscious buyer, with highly affordable sticker prices and plenty of features that make them a smart investment. This makes both the Bolt and Equinox EV perfect for first-time car buyers, young professionals, and practical drivers who want to get more for less in their vehicles. 

The Bolt is the more affordable of the two, which is no surprise, given that it’s smaller than the Equinox EV. The MSRP for the 2027 Bolt starts at $28,595, while the 2026 Equinox EV starts at $35,100. If you want an SUV under $30K that offers the space, power, and features you require, the Bolt is definitely a solid option in this ever-populated segment.^[a] 

The Smart Choice Is Electric

In the end, it comes down to what you want in your vehicle and your budget. If you want an electric vehicle that showcases great range, easy charging solutions, and plenty of pep in its step, the Bolt is a great way to make the most of your travels. It’s also plenty spacious inside, with ample room for your cargo, and when it comes to trim options, it keeps this choice simple and satisfying. 

Both SUVs are value-priced, accommodating, efficient, and great for our environment, producing zero harmful tailpipe emissions; however, if you’re in the market for a small and spunky traveler that fits into your budget with ease and shows off Chevy EV engineering at its best, you’ll want to take a closer look at the new Bolt.

^[a] MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, destination charge, and accessories. MSRP may change without notice. See dealer for complete details

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