MODEL
Chevrolet Equinox EV BEV Safety
NHTSA safety across every Chevrolet Equinox EV BEV model year we cover.
Across the 1 model year of the Chevrolet Equinox EV BEV we cover (2026 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2026 at 97 on the NHTSA Safety Index. 3 recalls have been issued across those years.
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV is a battery-electric compact SUV aimed squarely at mainstream American families making the switch to electric without sacrificing everyday practicality. Positioned as an accessible, value-minded EV in one of the most competitive segments on the market, it carries the Equinox nameplate into fully electrified territory, targeting buyers who want modern technology, familiar SUV proportions, and a lower running cost.
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV achieved the highest possible star rating in every NHTSA crash-test category: frontal, side, and rollover. This clean sweep is a notable achievement for a first-model-year EV, particularly given the structural demands of integrating a battery floor into an SUV. The engineering appears to have successfully navigated these complexities, resulting in a strong NHTSA Safety Index of 97 out of 100, placing it in our Exceptional band. Three recalls have been issued for the 2026 model year. While not alarming for a new vehicle, prospective owners should confirm all open recalls are completed before purchase. Owner complaints total seven, including one allegation of injury. These are unverified, and as a new model, complaint volume is expected to be low; this area warrants continued monitoring as the vehicle fleet expands. Based on published federal data, the Equinox EV presents a strong safety profile.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Equinox EV as a well-composed entry in the affordable electric SUV space, praising its comfortable ride, intuitive cabin layout, and competitive value proposition. Most find the interior materials and overall refinement to be a step forward for the Equinox line, and driving dynamics are typically described as smooth and confidence-inspiring, making it an easy recommendation for buyers new to electric vehicles.
- The 2026 Equinox EV earned a 97 out of 100 NHTSA Safety Index with five stars in every crash-test category, frontal, side, and rollover, making it one of the stronger performers in its segment by federal safety measures.
- Three recalls have been issued for the 2026 model year. Before finalizing any purchase, run the vehicle's VIN through NHTSA's free recall lookup tool to confirm all open recalls have been addressed by the selling dealer.
- Owner complaints are very low at seven total for the covered model year, but the Equinox EV is newly launched and the complaint record will grow as more vehicles accumulate miles. Check back with NHTSA's complaint database periodically for updates.
- One of the seven owner complaints includes an allegation of injury. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA and do not represent confirmed findings, but shoppers should stay informed as the federal complaint record develops over time.
Most-recalled year on record: 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV BEV with 3 recalls.