The Chevy Equinox is now available in two entirely different powertrains - a conventional gas model and a fully electric version - and they share almost nothing under the hood. Bergen County NJ drivers choosing between them face a genuinely different ownership decision, not just a simple upgrade choice.
Bottom Line: The gas Equinox costs less upfront and fits any lifestyle without charging planning. The Equinox EV costs more initially but delivers lower fuel costs and qualifies for a federal tax credit that can close most of the price gap.
- Gas Equinox starts around $32,000 and gets up to 32 mpg combined
- Equinox EV starts around $35,000 before incentives and offers up to 319 miles of range
- Bergen County commuters with home charging will likely save money over a 5-year window with the EV
How the Gas and EV Equinox Differ Fundamentally
The Equinox EV and gas Equinox are built on different platforms. The EV uses GM’s Ultium battery platform while the gas model uses a traditional unibody chassis. They share exterior styling cues and the Equinox name, but they are engineered from the ground up as separate vehicles.
For everything on both versions - pricing, trims, and features - our complete Equinox guide for Paramus buyers covers the full picture. This article focuses specifically on the powertrain decision that matters most.
The gas Equinox uses a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder producing 175 horsepower. The Equinox EV comes in two configurations: a standard-range model producing 213 horsepower and a long-range model producing 288 horsepower. Both EV variants are noticeably quicker from a standing start.
What You Give Up and Gain With Each Powertrain
The gas Equinox gives you maximum flexibility - fill up anywhere in Paramus, Hackensack, or Ridgewood, leave any time, with no charging logistics required. It is the right choice if you lack reliable home charging or regularly drive more than 250 miles in a single day.
The Equinox EV delivers lower day-to-day operating costs, a quieter driving experience, and access to the federal EV tax credit of up to $7,500 when you qualify. That credit effectively closes most of the price gap between the two versions for eligible buyers.
Real-World Range for Bergen County Commuters
Bergen County commuters driving to Midtown Manhattan average 20-30 miles each way. The Equinox EV’s 319-mile range means most drivers will charge once per week or less - at home overnight, without ever needing a public charging station.
| Factor | Gas Equinox | Equinox EV (Long Range) |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | ✓ ~$32,000 | ~$35,000+ |
| After Federal Tax Credit | No credit | ✓ ~$27,500 (if qualified) |
| Est. Annual Fuel Cost (12k mi) | ~$1,800 | ✓ ~$600 home charging |
| Max Range | ~400 mi (full tank) | ✓ 319 mi EPA estimated |
| Refuel / Recharge Time | ✓ 5 min at any station | 8 hrs home / ~30 min DC fast |
| Horsepower | 175 hp | ✓ 288 hp |
Charging Reality in Bergen County, NJ
Home charging is the biggest variable in the EV ownership decision. If you park in a home garage in Paramus, Fair Lawn, or Ridgewood, a Level 2 home charger adds roughly 25-30 miles of range per hour. Overnight charging from near-empty to full takes about 8 hours and costs approximately $3-4 in electricity at current NJ rates.
Public DC fast charging is available at multiple Bergen County locations and can add about 70 miles in 10 minutes for the long-range version. For most suburban Bergen County residents, public charging is a backup - not a daily necessity.
Apartment and condo dwellers in Hackensack or Fort Lee without dedicated parking face the biggest challenge. If you cannot reliably charge at home, the gas Equinox is the more practical choice even if the EV offers lower theoretical operating costs.
"Bergen County commuters who drive to New York every day are among the best candidates for the Equinox EV in the country. The range matches their commute easily, and home charging in a Bergen County garage is genuinely simple to set up."
General Manager, Paramus Chevrolet
Total Cost Over 5 Years: Who Wins?
For a Bergen County commuter driving 12,000-15,000 miles per year, the Equinox EV is likely to cost less over a 5-year window when you factor in the tax credit, lower fuel costs, and reduced maintenance. EVs have no oil changes, no spark plugs, and regenerative braking extends brake pad life significantly.
The gas Equinox wins on upfront cost and maximum flexibility. For drivers who haul boats, load cargo frequently, or take extended road trips beyond New Jersey and New York, the gas version eliminates range considerations entirely.
Our guide to the best Chevy models for Bergen County families shows how the Equinox fits into the broader Chevrolet lineup for different use cases.
Ready to test drive both? Browse Equinox EV inventory at Paramus Chevrolet, explore used Equinox options, or schedule a side-by-side test drive at our Paramus location.
🧮 EV vs. Gas Savings Calculator: See exactly how much you could save on fuel by switching to this electric model. Try the free calculator →
🧮 EV Battery Range Estimator: Estimate real-world range based on weather, speed, and your driving style. Try the free calculator →
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get the Equinox EV tax credit in New Jersey? If you meet IRS income thresholds, the Equinox EV qualifies for a federal EV tax credit of up to $7,500 at point of sale. New Jersey may also offer additional state-level EV incentives. The Paramus Chevrolet finance team can walk you through current eligibility requirements.
What happens if I run out of charge in Bergen County? Like any EV, the Equinox EV will need a charge or roadside assistance if you run the battery to zero. The vehicle provides clear range estimates and low-battery warnings well before you reach that point. With 319 miles of range, most Bergen County drivers will not encounter this scenario with normal daily use.
Is the Equinox EV bigger than the gas Equinox inside? The Equinox EV is built on a different platform and is slightly larger in interior dimensions than the gas version. Cargo capacity and passenger room are comparable, with the EV slightly ahead in rear legroom due to the Ultium platform’s floor design.
How does cold weather affect the Equinox EV in New Jersey winters? Cold weather reduces EV battery efficiency - expect a 15-20% range reduction in subfreezing temperatures. Pre-conditioning the battery while still plugged in at home before you leave minimizes this impact for Bergen County winters.
What home charging equipment do I need? Most EV owners install a Level 2 charger (240V) for overnight home use. This requires a standard 240V outlet similar to a dryer circuit. Paramus Chevrolet can connect you with recommended installers serving the Paramus, Hackensack, and Ridgewood areas.
Should I lease or buy the Equinox EV? Leasing can allow access to tax benefits even if you do not qualify for the personal federal credit, depending on how the lease is structured. Buying makes more sense for long-term ownership and maximum fuel-cost savings over a 5-plus-year period.
Which Equinox Is Right for You?
The gas Equinox is the right choice for maximum flexibility, variable driving patterns, or limited home charging access. The Equinox EV is the right choice for predictable Bergen County commuters with home charging who want to reduce fuel and maintenance costs over time.
Both versions are worth experiencing back to back. Browse current Equinox inventory at Paramus Chevrolet, serving Paramus, Hackensack, Ridgewood, and Fair Lawn in Bergen County NJ.