Thinking About a Used Car? Check Out the Chevy Equinox

In the landscape of used cars, how does anyone know where to hedge their bets? We all know buying a used car can get stressful. You have to consider cost, condition, and mileage. What about warranties? Can you guarantee you’re not buying a lemon? You can save yourself a lot of hassle when you’re shopping for a used car by narrowing down the make and model. Once you’ve determined your car of choice, now it’s time to figure out the best approach. One vehicle that we think stands out among the pack as a great option to buy used is the Chevrolet Equinox.

One thing you should know is that the Equinox holds its value pretty well. This tells us that it’s an overall reliable SUV, so it’s safe to say a used Chevy Equinox is a good investment and is expected to be on the road for many more years. Popular among the crossover SUV market for over 15 years and counting, the Equinox has always been built with driver priorities in mind. Not sure which years of the Equinox to look into? While they have all been good, there are a few years that stand out as ones to look for on the used lot. Here are a few models that are great options to buy used based on features, performance, safety, and other great specs.

The 2008 Chevy Equinox

The 2008 Chevy Equinox may surprise you. An older first-generation version of the Equinox, the 2008 model received some major updates from the previous year’s model. Going with a 2008 Equinox will save you significant amounts of money, but it still offers many great features as far as a used Chevy goes. The ‘08 comes standard with a 3.4L V6 engine that produces a hefty 185 horsepower or has an optional 3.6L V6 that generates 264 horsepower, making it one of the few crossover SUVs from this era to offer two V6 engine configurations. The 2008 Equinox offers a smooth driving experience and seamless transmission. This model also offers an impressive EPA estimated 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway with the standard engine, a notable figure for an SUV from that year.

The 2011 Chevy Equinox

By the time Chevy released the second generation of the Equinox, they had improved the cabin, engine options, and the overall feel of the SUV. The second generation launched in 2010. However, the 2011 model is a top choice when shopping for a used Equinox because it features all of the improvements of the 2010 but works out any potential kinks that come with a new generation release. The 2011 Chevy Equinox with either a 2.4L I-4 powertrain that produces 182 horsepower or a 3.0L V6 with an output of 264 horsepower.

The cabin received some improvement from previous models for a roomier feel and more noise absorption from the engine, allowing for a quiet, comfortable ride. This model also introduced heated seats for the 2LT and Bluetooth for the 1LT, so you still get some modern-day luxuries. Plus, with a handful of trims available when the 2011 Chevy Equinox debuted, you can find the right one for you at a great price. When well taken care of, this Equinox can last and last.

The 2013 Chevy Equinox

While the 2013 model is very similar to the 2011 outing, though its optional engine variation is more powerful than that of the 2011 model. The 2013 Equinox is available with an impressive 3.6L V6 that has an output of 301 horsepower and 272 lb-ft of torque. If you are the type of driver who likes to have a little more power under the hood, finding an Equinox with this engine is going to be the best way to go, and getting a model from 2013 means you’ll get it for a good price too.

The 2013 also offers an updated entertainment system compared to the former models. It includes a dual-player CD audio system, satellite radio, MP3 playback, an auxiliary input jack, an outside temperature display, and available navigation. Finally, the 2013 Equinox is the first introduction of many safety features that have now become standard across the segment. This Equinox model has lane departure warning, forward collision alert, and rear parking assist. With a 2013 model price tag, this means you’ll get a safe car with many modern features as an easily affordable price tag.

2016 Chevy Equinox

Grabbing once more from the second generation of the Equinox, the 2016 model is another top choice for a used vehicle. The 2016 Equinox saw a revamping of the exterior with additions like new headlamps and a refreshed grille. This is the year the Equinox added the L trim to the list of options. The L trim takes the place of the base-level Equinox with a front-wheel drive configuration. A few more interior features are added, including an optional Wi-Fi hotspot and extra storage space for smaller items. While the powertrain doesn’t have significant changes from previous models, it’s the updated exterior styling and the added modern conveniences to the cabin that make the 2016 Equinox stand out among the rest. Since the 2016 model is around seven years old, it’s likely you can still purchase affordable extended warranties on this SUV for added confidence in your purchase.

The 2019 Chevy Equinox

The 2019 Chevy Equinox is the latest model to make the list as a great used option. This year may be the sweet spot for shopping since it aligns with the end of three-year leases. Buying a turned-in lease is an easy way to save thousands off an original MSRP while still acquiring an Equinox that’s valuable, well-maintained, and still has many years ahead of it. Plus, since leases are returned to dealerships, you’re getting a vehicle that can qualify as Certified Pre-Owned (CPO). CPO Equinox models go through rigorous, multi-point inspections and must be within a specific mileage criterion before ever going on sale.

Many of our CPO 2019 inventory are leases that have been well taken care of. Since many leases are structured for 12,000 miles per year or less, there’s a good chance you can get into a CPO Equinox with less than 40,000 miles on the odometer. That means you’ll still get plenty of mileage out of your Equinox.

The 2019 Chevy Equinox offers great handling, modern safety technology, and more trim and engine options than previous models. Chevy introduced three option packages for the 2019 edition, including the LS Convenience package, the Lights and Bright package, and the LT Appearance package. Add desirable options like 19-inch chrome wheels, LED taillights and headlamps, and a sleek chrome grille, and it’s hard to beat a well-equipped used Equinox.

Chevy also added innovative tech features to the interior, like four standard USB charging ports and an improved backup camera. If you can locate a 2019 Premier model, enjoy Pedestrian Detection and Adaptive Cruise Control. As for the powertrain, the optional 2.0L turbocharged I-4 brings a well-received mix of power and efficiency to the Equinox and delivers a fun driving experience on city roads and highways alike. At a higher price tag, there is also an optional diesel engine that you may be lucky enough to get your hands on.

Spectacular Savings and Fan-Favorite Features

With so many great options for model years of the Chevy Equinox, there is one out there on the second-hand market for everyone. Since we understand that budget is king when it comes to used car shopping, we have covered models from the very cheap 2008 Equinox to the modernly equipped 2019 model, though any used Equinox should still treat you well. When well-maintained, the Chevy Equinox will drive like a dream for years to come. Stop by McCluskey Chevrolet, and we can help get you into a used Equinox model that fits within your budget and will be good for years to come.