Equinox vs Ioniq 5
Different logos, same mission. The Equinox and the Ioniq 5 both want to be your next car. These two are nearly level on the spec sheet, which means the right pick depends more on you than on them.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance Ioniq 5 wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance0.3
- Engine & Performance0.8
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The Ioniq 5 has 55 lb-ft more torque
Few buyers will miss this one. The Ioniq 5 brings 258 lb-ft to the table; the Equinox brings 203 lb-ft. More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Design & Size
Dimensions
| Spec | Equinox | Ioniq 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | N/A (not specified) | 183.3 in |
| Width (no mirrors) | N/A (not specified) | 74.4 in |
| Height | N/A (not specified) | 63 in |
| Wheelbase | N/A (not specified) | 118.1 in |
Engine & Performance
Ioniq 5 leads
The Equinox has a tough time in the engine & performance section, where the Ioniq 5 pulls well ahead. Here the Ioniq 5 offers 55 lb-ft more torque. The Ioniq 5’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing. So if engine & performance tops your list, lean toward the Ioniq 5.
Torque
Equinox: 203 lb-ft Ioniq 5: 258 lb-ft Electrified powertrains deliver torque instantly, so compare torque figures alongside the powertrain type.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
This is a tie in all but name. On space & practicality, both deliver about the same. Net result on space & practicality: level.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
Both the Equinox and the Ioniq 5 cover off-road & towing equally well on paper. Both cover off-road & towing well enough that other priorities should break the tie.
Safety & Tech
For safety & tech, the differences are in the specifics (component names and types), so the table is the place to look.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Equinox | Ioniq 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Battery electric |
| Engine | 1.5L turbo I4 | Single motor (rear) |
| Total system output | 175 hp | 168 hp |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft (winner) |
| Transmission | N/A (not specified) | Single-speed reduction gear |
| Drivetrain | FWD (AWD available) | RWD (AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | Equinox | Ioniq 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Electric range | N/A (not specified) | 245 mi |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | Equinox | Ioniq 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Cargo (behind rear seats) | N/A (not specified) | 27.2 cu ft |
| Cargo (seats folded) | N/A (not specified) | 59.3 cu ft |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | Equinox | Ioniq 5 |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | Equinox | Ioniq 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Largest touchscreen | N/A (not specified) | 12.3 in |
| Driver-assist suite | N/A (not specified) | Hyundai SmartSense |
| Basic warranty | 3 yr / 36,000 mi | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
Dimensions
| Spec | Equinox | Ioniq 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | N/A (not specified) | 183.3 in |
| Width (no mirrors) | N/A (not specified) | 74.4 in |
| Height | N/A (not specified) | 63 in |
| Wheelbase | N/A (not specified) | 118.1 in |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the Ioniq 5 if…
- you often drive loaded up or with a trailer (258 lb-ft vs 203 lb-ft of torque)
- you trust Hyundai and want to keep things familiar
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for most people, the Equinox or the Ioniq 5?
On the specs compared here, the Ioniq 5 makes more sense for most buyers; the Equinox doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
Two companies, two answers to the same question. That’s how I see the Equinox from Chevrolet and the Ioniq 5 from Hyundai. Practically speaking, the Ioniq 5’s biggest advantage is 55 lb-ft more torque.
Choose by what you’d use most: the things a spec sheet can’t capture leads to the Equinox, engine & performance leads to the Ioniq 5.
My pick: the Ioniq 5.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.