Here at Parkway Family Chevy, we make it easy to find the perfect ride. Our selection of pre-owned models is vast, and we are sure that you will be able to choose the right set of wheels best suited to your specific driving needs and budget. One of the most popular pre-owned vehicles on our lot is the used Chevy Equinox. While the price depends heavily on which production year you get, you can expect a used model to be much more affordable than a new one. If you would like to learn more about the used Chevy Equinox, keep reading! This comprehensive guide to Equinox models will tell you everything you need to know before you sign on the dotted line.
First Generation Models
Making its debut at the 2003 Detroit Auto Show, the first Chevy Equinox was manufactured as a 2005 vehicle. The first generation ran until 2009, and you can still find these vehicles floating around the used car market. Sometimes, they even make their way onto our lot.
Classified as a mid-size SUV, this collection of used Chevy Equinox models is equipped with FWD as the standard. However, you may be able to find AWD options as well. The two engines that you will see in these vehicles include a 3.4L V6 or a 3.6L V6. The 3.4L unit produces 185 hp and 210 lb-ft of torque. As for the larger 3.6L motor, it generates 264 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque. However, you will only find the larger engine on some models produced from 2008 to 2009.
The First Revisions
At the end of the first generation, a lot of refreshes were made to the Chevy Equinox. Most of these changes took place in 2008. As you may have already noticed, a new engine was added to the lineup, but that wasn’t the only amendment. The Sport/SS trim level was added into the mix. Not only does it come with the bigger motor, but it also includes 18-inch chrome wheels, a performance-tuned suspension, and a 1-inch lower ride height. You may even find a used Chevy Equinox Sport/SS with optional features like a navigation system, leather upholstery, heated seats, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, and a sunroof.
Another trim level that was released in 2008 was the LTZ model. If you find one used, it will come with 17-inch chrome-covered aluminum wheels, chrome exterior accents, a roof rack, and many of the interior luxuries from the Sport/SS model. It also includes a 6-disc CD changer with a premium Pioneer stereo with seven speakers.
As for additional non-trim-related changes in 2008, you will notice that electronic stability and trailer sway control has been installed. Upgraded shocks, a tire pressure monitoring system, and 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS have all been included as well. In other words, the revised first-generation models are safer and more luxurious than the older models.
Second Generation Models
From 2010 until 2017, the second generation of Chevy Equinox models was produced. The first model from this production run premiered at the 2009 North American International Auto Show. Classified as a mid-size crossover SUV, second-gen models can be found frequently on our lot.
Let’s take a peek under the hoods to see what kind of powertrain lineup is available on these vehicles. If you find a used Chevy Equinox from 2010 to 2017, it will probably have a 2.4L Ecotec I-4 motor under the hood. Generating 182 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque, this unit was designed to be more fuel-efficient than the former V6. Another engine option for models from 2010 to 2012 is the 3.0L V6 that put out 264 hp and 222 lb-ft of torque. In 2013, the 3.6L V6 replaced the first second-generation 3.0L V6 motor. It can push out 301 hp and 272 lb-ft of torque. All of these engines come standard with a 6-speed automatic transmission and FWD or AWD.
Making Changes
In 2013, more revisions were made besides the bigger engine. If you come across a 2013 used Chevy Equinox, it may include a rear-seat dual-player DVD system and an advanced safety suite. This suite adds rear park assist, forward collision warning, and lane-departure warning.
Although minor cosmetic changes can be seen on used Chevy Equinox models from 2014, the next significant upgrade is found on 2015 models. This model saw the addition of OnStar with a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. Standard on LT and LTZ trims, this a luxury that isn’t on most used vehicles that are over 3 or 4 years old.
The final changes to the second generation can be seen in the 2016 Equinox models. On the exterior, you will notice a completely different grille along with restyled headlights and front fascia. The taillights have also been tweaked for a nicer aesthetic. Slipping behind the wheel, these used Chevy Equinox models come with a new gear selector and an extra storage shelf under the dash. You will also notice that the lock buttons for the doors have been removed from the dash. As for trim changes, the new L trim replaced the LS as the base model. So, the trim lineup for 2016 is in the following order: L, LS, LT, and the new top-tier Premier. Finally, the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system became standard on all trims.
Third Generation
The latest generation of used Chevy Equinox models that you may find on our dealership lot is the third generation. Starting in 2018, these models have been reclassified as compact crossover SUVs. If you have a bigger budget, then you can enjoy the latest tech and safety luxuries that are included with this generation.
As for the powertrain lineup, there are a total of three potential engines you may find. The first is a turbocharged 1.5L I-4 that produces 170 hp and 203 lb-ft of torque. The second is a turbocharged 2.0L I-4 engine that generates 252 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. Finally, the third option is a turbo-diesel 1.6L I-4 engine that pushes out 137 hp and 240 lb-ft of torque. These engines are paired with either a 6 or 9-speed automatic transmission and FWD or AWD.
Advanced safety features that you may also find on many of these used Chevy Equinox models are forward collision warning, low-speed automatic braking, and a surround-view camera to assist with crowded or tight parking spaces. The Safety Alert Seat can also be found along with the Rear Seat Alert. Out of all of the used Chevy Equinox generations, the third is by far the safest. As for the trim levels, the lineup is L, LS, LT, and Premier. There are also a few special edition models that add a hint of style and sophistication. If you want a sleek Equinox, keep a lookout for the Midnight Edition, or if you prefer a sportier look, try to find a Redline Edition.
Find a Used Chevy Equinox
Now that you have a better idea of what to expect when you buy a used Chevy Equinox, you also have a better knowledge of what to look for on our lot. As your one-stop-shop for all things Chevrolet, our team of experts is happy to help you find the perfect match. We can help you search through the different used Equinox we have and explain the different features they offer so you can find the right model for you. Browse our online inventory or stop by and see us at 25500 SH 249 in Tomball to check out our selection.
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