Chevy’s Midsize SUVs: Their Origins and Three Great Options

SUVs are a significant aspect of the American automotive industry, and ever since the early 2000s, they have been experiencing an unparalleled upward trajectory in popularity. While the SUV boom began with the basic premise of “bigger is better,” the vehicle designs of this segment have gradually been scaled down over time and now exist in various sizes that cater to the needs of many different kinds of drivers.

If you’re looking at used SUVs for sale near Loveland and you’re looking for something that’s not too big and can handle both off-road applications and get you around town, look no further than the offerings from Chevy. The bowtie brand produces many midsize SUVs that are just as agile as subcompact models and just as capable as full-sized models that provide ample storage, seating, and towing ability.

What Denotes a Midsize SUV?

As you might have ascertained from the name, midsize SUVs are the ideal compromise between something compact and something with three rows of seating and overly generous cargo space. Typically, they accommodate seating for five passengers and have different platforms on which they’re built. For instance, some have a unibody design, while others share the same chassis as a compact pickup truck or sedan.

This SUV segment became very popular in the early 2000s when customer demand shifted from large vehicles to ones that were easier to maneuver around, as they were driven by people who had never handled anything larger than a station wagon or minivan. Chevy has always been on the cutting edge of what drivers are looking for, and it’s no secret that they continue to excel in this segment.

The Chevy Equinox

The Chevy Equinox is one of the most popular compact SUVs manufactured by the bowtie brand. In many respects, it’s close enough to a midsize SUV despite not falling in that category. It’s built at a size that’s ideally suited for city driving yet can also be equipped with AWD for adventures off the beaten path; however, its capability for handling the city limits is what many drivers find most intriguing.

Since the 2022 model year, the Equinox has been exclusively powered by a turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Because of this setup, the Equinox has no trouble maneuvering through the city streets, and it can even tow 1,500 lbs when properly equipped. This ability to merge the advantages of a subcompact SUV with the prowess generally associated with its bigger siblings, the Tahoe and the Suburban, makes it ideal for just about anyone.

The Equinox has also received favorable marks in the safety arena, which appeals to families looking for reliable transportation. This model has continually received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA in collision testing, and some of its most notable standard driver assistance features include automated emergency braking and a forward collision alert.

The Chevy Blazer

While it might seem like a relatively new vehicle to some, the Chevy Blazer has a lineage that spans almost half a century. Making its first appearance in 1969, the Blazer was one of the “proto-SUVs” that first hinted at what this vehicle class would eventually turn into. This model would remain in production for several years, serving as the principal rival to the Ford Bronco and Jeep Cherokee. It would be resurrected in 2019 as a midsize SUV that would inject a fresh style into this old nameplate’s presentation.

The new rendition of the Blazer offers drivers the choice between a performance-oriented vehicle or one more adept at handling urban and suburban areas. The standard powertrain consists of a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine that’s geared for great fuel economy—so, while it’s bolstered by a potent 228 hp, its fuel efficiency (which the EPA estimates at 22 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway) is conservative; this is refreshing news to drivers who are keen to save on fuel costs.

Of course, for those who thirst for performance, a 3.6L V6 with 308 hp provides both acceleration and excitement. Both engines pair with a nine-speed automatic transmission for smooth shifting. The V6 also allows the Blazer to pull 4,500 lbs, making it suitable for weekend getaways or demanding tasks.

No matter which powertrain one you opt for, you’re getting a vehicle that embraces an aggressive style and makes a stunning first impression wherever you travel. Its sleek aerodynamic design is accentuated by an interior that takes great inspiration from the Chevy Camaro. While some have considered the SUV a segment meant for practicality, not excitement, the Blazer manages to encapsulate both in a single package.

The Chevy Traverse

The Chevy Traverse is particularly enjoyed by families because of its three rows of seating, its strong performance, and its mighty storage space. While this vehicle isn’t as large as Chevy’s full-sized models, the Tahoe and Suburban, the Traverse has made a name for itself as a fierce competitor, praised for its versatility and capability.

Chevy once again proves that it can do less with more and has opted to equip the Traverse with a single powertrain option: a 2.5L four-cylinder engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Traverse benefits from four trim options that suit a wide range of lifestyles. Those who are looking for a means to embark on an adventure off of the beaten path should go for the Z71 trim, which comes with skid plates and a suspension designed for off-roading. Meanwhile, the top-tier RS is the sportiest of the four, milking the most chutzpah from its horsepower.

Even those who are more concerned with workplace obligations and transporting material will be satisfied with this model’s 5,000-lb towing capacity. For the modern family who seeks an ideal transporter, a 17.7-inch infotainment screen provides access to a wealth of media features, and standard adaptive cruise control will offer a considerable level of peace of mind. Even better than that, GM’s semi-autonomous driving tool, Super Cruise, is an available upgrade that many drivers will hope to employ on compatible highways.

Which of Chevy’s Midsize SUVs Works Best for You?

With three great midsize SUV options in the Chevy fleet, you might wonder which one suits you best. One of the perks of this diversity is that your choices are different enough that each makes its own case, so you can quickly narrow down which one might fit your needs the best.

We found that, for suburban and city drivers who enjoy a weekend getaway from time to time and have a keen eye for safety, the Chevy Equinox is more than ideal. If you’re looking for the union of practicality and performance, you’ll feel right at home in the Chevy Blazer. The most daring of Chevy’s midsize SUVs is the Traverse, with its versatility, technology, and three rows of satisfaction that are hard to ignore.

The Ideal Midsize SUV Awaits You at McCluskey Chevrolet

No matter which midsize Chevy SUV you choose, you can have the best shopping experience when you see us at McCluskey Chevrolet. With a selection of new and used Chevy models and a team who are more than willing to lend their expertise to help you make the right choice, you’ll have a buying experience that’s enjoyable, easy, and informative. We can also help you finance your new Chevy, and our parts and service department will be on call to ensure your purchase stays on the road for years to come.