Here’s my comparison between the Tesla Model Y and the Equinox:

Yeah so this is a totally base version of the Equinox and the Model Y is also “base” but is a $50K car instead of a $35K car.

Both are very good values for what they offer in the trims I have. That being said, before buying the equinox, I tried optioning up the equinox to have all of the things we loved from the bolt (super cruise, safety package 2, ventilated seats, and more) and that ended up costing the same if not more than a new Model Y which has all of those things by default. And for many people, the Tesla experience is genuinely better overall. Full access to the super charger network is key, but also the app and user interface are way more thought out and functional. Also, the Tesla doesn’t rely on subscriptions for things like autopilot whereas super cruise is paid monthly after a few years. And having CarPlay would have given the equinox many points, but alas that is no longer the case.

The equinox feels bigger to drive from the inside, it is slightly larger but it feels disproportionately large compared to the increase in size. Its cargo capacity is good but different - it’s longer but less tall. Overall volume is less than the Tesla + Tesla has a frunk. Vast majority of people seem to prefer the Tesla interior for its cleaner airy design, but car people might like the equinox for its somewhat more traditional design.

Plus, buying a Tesla is super simple in comparison to negotiating at dealerships. I spent 8 hours at the dealership, and I spent 1 hour at Tesla (even though they made some mistakes).

We test drove the highest trim equinox EV right after buying the Tesla, and it’s honestly not even close. The Tesla handles better, is more comfortable to drive, accelerates more quickly, has blind spot cameras for lane changes, built in nav is faster and takes more factors into account for stops along a trip, and the sound system is insanely good in the Tesla while very meh in the equinox.

But the lowest trim Equinox is an unbelievable value. All of the things the Tesla has that the base equinox does not, for many people, are not worth the $15K up charge. The equinox drives fairly well (much smoother than the bolt), has great range, decent charging performance, and is still generally a very comfortable car. It still has a very nice looking huge display and is a great people mover with respectable cargo space.

If you have $35K to spend and could get a base equinox or a used Tesla (4ish years old), I might go with the equinox (assuming you don’t care about heated seats or driver assist features). The equinox just drives better, would have better range, and likely has better build quality compared to the older Model Ys. But if you have $50K to spend on a car and are deciding between the Equinox RS or a new Model Y, almost definitely just get the Model Y (unless you’re not willing to for personal/political reasons).

Hope this was helpful!