The most affordable EV that delivers 300 miles on a single charge
Electric vehicles are becoming more and more efficient, but long range and affordability rarely go hand in hand. Many electric vehicles that promise 300 miles of driving on a single charge come with prices that put them out of reach for traditional buyers. This is what makes this particular model so compelling. It offers true long-range capability while remaining one of the most affordable electric vehicles you can buy today.
What sets this electric vehicle apart is how efficiently it uses its battery. Intelligent power management, aerodynamic design and a well-balanced powertrain allow it to maximize range without relying on an oversized or expensive battery. For daily commuters and road trip drivers, this means fewer charging stops and lower overall costs of ownership, without upgrading to a premium brand.
In this article, we take a closer look at how this electric vehicle manages to offer 300 miles of range at such an accessible price. From real-world range expectations to charging considerations and long-term value, it shows how electric cars are finally becoming practical and affordable for daily drivers.
To provide you with the most current and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article comes from various manufacturers’ websites and other authoritative sources, including the EPA.
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The Chevrolet Equinox EV is one of the most affordable new electric vehicles in 2025
If you’ve been considering upgrading to an electric car but are holding you back from inflated prices and range anxiety, the Chevrolet Equinox may be able to convince you. Not only is it one of the most affordable electric vehicles in 2025, it’s spacious, practical and comfortable. On top of all that, it’s capable of going over 300 miles on a single charge.
2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV Price
|
Model |
Starting MSRP |
|---|---|
|
LT1 |
$34,995 |
|
LT2 |
$41,795 |
|
RS |
$44,095 |
The Equinox EV is a compact electric SUV that shares its styling and many of its features with the gas-powered Equinox. For the 2026 model year, Chevrolet has made some minor changes to the crossover. LT models can now be equipped with a Darkened Midnight Package. RS models can be equipped with monotone paint, instead of a blacked-out roof. Each model now also comes with a two-tier charging cable.
We’d opt for the more affordable LT1 trim, but make sure to get all-wheel drive, bringing the starting price to $38,295. We’d also add the Comfort package, which adds things like heated, power-adjustable front seats. We would also be entitled to the active safety pack II, which includes desirable driving aids.
Warranties and maintenance
- Limited Warranty: Three years or 36,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty: Five years or 60,000 miles
- Warranty for electrical components: Eight years or 100,000 miles
- Free maintenance: First visit
Chevrolet offers a fairly standard set of warranties that won’t excite or disappoint. Bumper-to-bumper, powertrain, and battery warranties are comparable to what you’d get from the Equinox’s main rivals. Chevrolet also makes the first maintenance visit to the house.
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It’s packed with features and offers tons of space at a surprisingly affordable price.
Chevrolet’s compact electric vehicle is a cheerful and efficient SUV
As mentioned, the Equinox EV is the most affordable electric vehicle that can travel over 300 miles on a single charge. Chevrolet has struck a very good balance between efficiency and the kind of power buyers expect from electric vehicles. While it may not be very exciting to drive, it offers an incredibly comfortable ride.
2026 Equinox EV Performance Specs
|
Powertrain |
Single engine |
Dual motor |
|---|---|---|
|
Power |
220 hp |
300 HP |
|
Couple |
243 LB-PI |
355 LB-FT |
|
Transmission |
FWD |
all-wheel drive |
|
0-60 mph |
7.7 seconds |
5.8 seconds |
The Equinox EV is available in two configurations. Each model comes standard with the single-motor front-wheel drive configuration. They can all be upgraded to the dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup, however. Although the front-wheel drive model isn’t extremely fast, it’s more than adequate for daily driving. The all-wheel drive model delivers the signature acceleration that electric vehicles are known for.
For an affordable electric SUV, the Equinox is actually an incredibly well-rounded machine. The steering is well weighted and responds well to inputs. Ride quality is also much better than one might expect, given the Chevrolet’s budget-oriented price. We also really like that there are several levels of regenerative braking to choose from.
Efficiency, battery and autonomy
|
Model |
City |
Highway |
Combined |
Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
FWD |
117 MPGe |
100 MPGe |
108 MPGe |
319 miles |
|
all-wheel drive |
112 MPGe |
95 MPGe |
103 MPGe |
307 miles |
Every Equinox 2026 is equipped with an 85 kWh battery. The trim you choose doesn’t affect efficiency, but obviously the powertrain does. Front-wheel drive models are obviously the most efficient models and can take you further on a single charge. What’s quite impressive, however, is that the all-wheel drive models still go over 300 miles despite reduced efficiency.
Every Equinox comes with DC fast charging capability. Chevrolet says you can add 70 miles of range to its small crossover in 10 minutes.
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You get what you pay for inside the Equinox EV
Just like the gas variant, the Equinox EV is an incredibly practical small car. Interior space is quite generous for this segment, both in terms of passenger and cargo capacity. Chevrolet also packed a ton of comfort and tech features inside the compact SUV, making it more luxurious than its price suggests.
Interior dimensions and comfort
|
Headroom in the first row |
39.2 inches |
|---|---|
|
Front row legroom |
41.7 inches |
|
Second row headroom |
38.5 inches |
|
Second row legroom |
38 inches |
|
Loading capacity |
26.4 cubic feet |
The gas-powered Equinox offers a bit more space in the cargo hold, but other than that, the electric vehicle is just as roomy. There is enough space in the front and rear rows for tall passengers to stretch out and feel comfortable on long journeys. It doesn’t have a trunk like some of its competitors, but it has plenty of space in the back for any cargo you need to carry.
The base models are quite spartan, missing some essential features in this segment. However, the optional packages that add them are quite affordable. There are a ton of available features that make the Equinox more luxurious than expected, with higher trims equipped with items like heated power seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a sunroof.
Infotainment and technology
Like most modern electric vehicles, the Equinox EV comes with a ton of tech features. Above the dashboard, you’ll find the infotainment screen and digital gauge display side-by-side in an attractive layout. The infotainment screen is a fairly large 17.7-inch unit.
Unfortunately, General Motors has discontinued Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so smartphone mirroring is not available here. However, the system comes with all the apps you could need, including Google Maps and Spotify. Our only complaint is the lousy audio system that won’t impress audiophiles.
