2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs. 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV

Price is often the first filter shoppers apply when narrowing down an EV search, and the Equinox EV has built its reputation squarely around affordability. That approach genuinely resonates with buyers trying to keep their monthly payment manageable. Before deciding on price alone, though, our Sonata and Ioniq financing options are worth reviewing, since the total cost of ownership involves more than the sticker price.

Design

The Equinox EV borrows styling cues from its gas-powered sibling, giving it a familiar, approachable look with a longer wheelbase than the standard Equinox. The cabin centers on a large 17.7-inch infotainment display and offers genuinely generous cargo space for the segment. The Ioniq 5 stands apart with its parametric pixel lighting and boxy, retro-futuristic shape that draws attention in any parking lot. Inside, the flat floor and sliding center console create a flexible, lounge-like cabin that feels noticeably different from the Equinox EV's more conventional layout.

Technology

The Equinox EV includes a 17.7-inch touchscreen, adaptive cruise control, and lane keep assist as standard equipment, a genuinely strong package considering its accessible starting price. The Ioniq 5 offers dual 12.3-inch displays with more physical climate controls, along with its 800-volt architecture that allows a 10 to 80 percent charge in around 18 minutes. Our Ioniq 5 owner assurance coverage page outlines what comes standard on every trim. The Equinox EV uses a slower charging architecture, meaning road trip charging stops generally take longer than they would in the Ioniq 5.

Performance

The Equinox EV's front-wheel-drive configuration produces 220 horsepower and up to 319 miles of range, while the optional all-wheel-drive setup adds a second motor for 300 horsepower with a slight range reduction to around 307 miles. The Ioniq 5 offers up to 318 miles of range on its SE Long Range RWD trim, essentially matching the Equinox EV's best figure, while its dual-motor AWD trim produces 320 horsepower and the Ioniq 5 N reaches an intense 641 horsepower for buyers who want genuine speed. Explore our Ioniq 5 trims and current specials to compare pricing directly against the Equinox EV's lineup.

Verdict

The Equinox EV earns its place as a genuinely strong value pick, especially for budget-conscious first-time EV buyers. The Ioniq 5 costs more at the top end but delivers meaningfully faster charging, a more distinctive and flexible cabin, and a far wider performance range once the N trim is factored in. For buyers who plan to road trip regularly or want more from their SUV long-term, the Ioniq 5's advantages tend to outweigh the initial price gap.

A lower starting price is appealing, but charging speed and everyday usability matter just as much over years of ownership. Great Lakes Hyundai has the 2026 Ioniq 5 lineup available to test drive in Streetsboro, and our finance team can help you weigh the full cost picture against the Equinox EV.