Living in Chicago, where the weather is always changing next to a lake that feels like the ocean, even in summer, there are many cloudy and rainy days.

However, these days my heart is quite fluttering and joyful. The reason is the '2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV.'

Actually, I am currently driving an Equinox. It's the gas engine 2022 model. It's a family SUV that is good for dropping the kids off at school, going grocery shopping, and occasionally dining out with my in-laws. It's easy to drive, and the size is just right for parking, so I've always had a fondness for this car. But these days, with all the talk about 'electric cars,' my lease is ending, and I've been leaning towards trying an electric vehicle. Then, I spotted a model that fits me perfectly.

It's the 2025 Equinox EV. Honestly, at first, I thought, 'Wow, the Equinox is coming out as an electric car too,' and I passed it by without much thought, but after seeing a few pictures, I was completely hooked. The design is not at all bulky. Instead, it's sophisticated and perfectly matches today's sensibilities. It feels like... less flashy than the Tesla Y, yet more stable, with a smooth volume that gives a comforting style to the viewer.

Especially, the front light design was impressive, and the smooth, grill-less feel unique to electric cars applied to an SUV makes it look much more futuristic. But it's not just the exterior; the interior is also clean and stylish. The feeling of the dashboard seamlessly connecting to the central display is like being inside the latest smartphone. Even the back seat is spacious, and the trunk space is sufficient, so there would be no shortage for grocery shopping during the week and family outings on the weekend.

But the most surprising thing was the price. The base trim starts just above $30,000.

Of course, the price goes up for higher trims, but considering the current electric vehicle prices, this is quite an attractive starting price. Plus, electric vehicle subsidies might still be available until the end of September, so it could actually be cheaper to lease or purchase... which makes me think.

Honestly, I have considered the Tesla Y as well. It's so common and many people drive it. But these days, that commonness feels like a disadvantage. Wherever you go, it's either a Tesla 3 or Y... there are so many that it feels less special, you know? And the interior honestly feels a bit bland. There's just a screen sitting there, and it lacks a warm feeling. In contrast, the Equinox EV feels like it has both the practicality needed for a family car and detailed sensibilities.

Right now, I have a few pictures of the Equinox EV saved on my phone. I pull them out whenever I'm bored, and I check out the reviews that pop up on Instagram one by one. I even calculate how much leasing would cost and casually ask my husband, "What do you think of this car?" He responds, "Oh, it's pretty. Looks good!" And every time he does, I get excited all over again.

Of course, I haven't signed any contracts yet. But my heart is already halfway there. In this era where there are so many car options, an electric SUV that makes you feel 'I want to buy this car' at first glance is rare. Especially a car that accurately hits the 'family-friendly yet sophisticated' feeling I wanted is something I haven't seen in a long time.

This weekend, I'm thinking of stopping by a nearby Chevy dealership. I might just go for a test drive, but who knows... I might come home that evening with a leasing contract in hand.

These days, this is my little happy dilemma haha.