2025 Equinox EV vs. Equinox LT (Gas): A Detailed Savings & Cost Comparison

Cross-shopping the all-electric 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV against the gas-powered 2025 Equinox LT means looking beyond the showroom price. The real question for Quebec drivers: which SUV delivers better long-term value once you factor in fuel costs, available rebates, and maintenance schedules?

This analysis breaks down the numbers specific to Quebec drivers, including provincial charging rates, current fuel prices, and the Roulez vert rebate program. Both vehicles share the Equinox nameplate and similar utility, but their cost profiles differ significantly over five years of ownership.

At a Glance: Equinox EV LT vs. Equinox LT (Gas)

Understanding the Rebate Landscape in Quebec (2025)

Quebec's Roulez vert program offers $4,000 in provincial rebates for fully electric vehicles registered in 2025. The program is scheduled to reduce to $2,000 in 2026 before ending December 31, 2026. This rebate applies directly to the Equinox EV LT.

The federal iZEV program officially paused on January 12, 2025, after allocated funds were fully committed. No federal incentives are currently available for electric vehicle purchases. The Equinox LT gas model does not qualify for any provincial or federal incentives.

Current Quebec Incentive Summary:

• Equinox EV LT: $4,000 provincial rebate (2025 registrations)
• Equinox LT (Gas): No rebates available

Energy Costs: Electricity vs. Gasoline in Quebec

Quebec drivers benefit from some of the lowest electricity rates in North America. Home charging accounts for over 80% of an electric vehicle's annual charging needs, making the Equinox EV particularly cost-effective for drivers with access to residential charging.

Home Charging Costs (Equinox EV)

Based on Quebec government data, home charging adds approximately $300 to $400 per year to your electricity bill, assuming 20,000 kilometres driven annually with 85% of charging done at home. This calculation reflects typical residential rates and the Equinox EV's energy efficiency.

Annual home charging estimate: $300–$400/year

Public Charging Costs (Equinox EV)

Quebec has over 2,000 DC fast-charging stations and thousands of Level 2 public charging locations. Charging costs vary by network:

• Level 2 public stations: $0 to $5 per hour
• DC fast charging (Electric Circuit): $0.36 to $0.60 per kWh, typically $15 to $30 per session
• Tesla Superchargers: $0.45 to $0.55 per kWh (with NACS adapter)

Most drivers rarely need public DC fast charging for daily use, reserving it for longer trips. If you lack home charging, Quebec government estimates suggest an annual cost of approximately $650 for fully electric vehicles (85% Level 2 public charging, 15% DC fast charging, based on 20,000 km/year).

Fuel Costs (Equinox LT Gas)

Quebec fuel prices averaged $147.4 per 100 litres in October 2025, or $1.474 per litre. The 2025 Equinox LT achieves 8.8 L/100 km (combined fuel economy).

Annual fuel cost calculation (20,000 km):

• Fuel consumption: 20,000 km ÷ 100 × 8.8 L = 1,760 litres
• Annual fuel cost: 1,760 L × $1.474 = $2,594

Five-Year Cost of Ownership Comparison

Breaking down the total cost over five years (100,000 km) reveals the long-term financial advantage of electric versus gas.

Equinox EV LT (FWD) — Five-Year Energy Costs

Scenario 1: Home Charging Available

• Annual energy cost: $350 (average of $300–$400 estimate)
• Five-year energy cost: $350 × 5 = $1,750
• Less: Quebec Roulez vert rebate: -$4,000
• Net five-year energy cost: -$2,250 (savings)

Scenario 2: No Home Charging (Public Only)

• Annual energy cost: $650 (Quebec government estimate)
• Five-year energy cost: $650 × 5 = $3,250
• Less: Quebec Roulez vert rebate: -$4,000
• Net five-year energy cost: -$750 (savings)

Equinox LT (Gas) — Five-Year Fuel Costs

• Annual fuel cost: $2,594
• Five-year fuel cost: $2,594 × 5 = $12,970
• Available rebates: $0
• Net five-year fuel cost: $12,970

Five-Year Savings Summary

Even without home charging access, the Equinox EV delivers over $13,700 in net savings over five years compared to the gas Equinox LT. With home charging, savings exceed $15,200.

Maintenance Cost Considerations

Electric vehicles require less routine maintenance than gas-powered vehicles. The Equinox EV eliminates oil changes, spark plug replacements, transmission fluid services, and exhaust system repairs. Brake wear is also reduced thanks to regenerative braking, which captures energy during deceleration.

Typical maintenance differences:

• Equinox EV: Tire rotations, brake inspections, cabin air filter replacements, coolant services (less frequent)
• Equinox LT (Gas): All EV services plus oil changes (every 12,000 km), engine air filter, transmission service, spark plugs, exhaust system

Over five years, the maintenance cost advantage for the Equinox EV can add $1,500 to $2,500 in additional savings, though exact amounts depend on driving conditions and service intervals.

Performance and Range

The 2025 Equinox EV LT offers up to 513 km of range on a full charge with front-wheel drive. Daily driving in Quebec typically averages 50 km, meaning the Equinox EV handles a full week of commuting on a single charge for most drivers.

The Equinox LT (gas) is powered by a 1.5 L Turbo 4-cylinder engine producing 175 horsepower, matched with either a continuously variable transmission (FWD) or an 8-speed automatic transmission (AWD). Fuel economy of 8.8 L/100 km combined provides a practical range of approximately 570 km on a full 50-litre tank.

Both vehicles offer 680 kg (1,500 lb.) towing capacity, making them equally capable for small trailers or recreational equipment.

Technology and Features

The Equinox EV LT comes standard with a 17.7-inch diagonal touchscreen and an 11-inch Driver Information Centre, creating a modern digital cockpit. Standard features include heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, HD Surround Vision, and over 15 advanced safety features through Chevrolet Safety Assist.

The Equinox LT (gas) features an 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and an 11-inch Driver Information Centre, with similar heated seat and steering wheel features. Both vehicles support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Google built-in for seamless smartphone integration.

The Equinox EV adds Regen on Demand and One Pedal Driving features, which maximize range and reduce brake wear by converting kinetic energy back into battery charge.

Cargo and Utility

The Equinox LT (gas) provides 1,798 L (63.5 cu. ft.) of maximum cargo volume with the rear seats folded. The Equinox EV LT offers 1,620 L (57.2 cu. ft.), a difference of 178 litres. Both vehicles include 60/40-split folding rear seats and flexible storage solutions.

For most families, the cargo difference is minimal. The Equinox EV's slightly reduced cargo space results from battery placement, but both vehicles handle weekly groceries, sports equipment, and road trip luggage without issue.

Which Model is Right for You?

Choose the Equinox EV LT if:

• You have home charging access or public charging near your residence
• You drive primarily within 250 km daily range
• You want to maximize five-year savings (over $15,000 with home charging)
• You value lower maintenance requirements and quieter operation
• You qualify for the $4,000 Quebec Roulez vert rebate in 2025

Choose the Equinox LT (Gas) if:

• You frequently drive long distances beyond 500 km without charging access
• You need maximum cargo flexibility (178 L more than EV)
• You prefer the familiarity of gas station refueling
• Upfront purchase price is a primary concern (though long-term costs are higher)

Experience Both Vehicles at Vision Chevrolet Buick GMC

The numbers tell a clear story: the 2025 Equinox EV delivers substantial long-term savings for Quebec drivers, especially with home charging access. The $4,000 Roulez vert rebate, combined with electricity costs far below gasoline, creates a financial advantage that exceeds $15,000 over five years.

Our team at Vision Chevrolet Buick GMC in Delson can walk you through real-world charging scenarios, available rebate programs, and test drive both vehicles so you can experience the difference firsthand. Book your test drive today and discover which Equinox fits your driving needs and budget.