The Evolution of the Chevy Equinox Lineup

The Chevrolet Equinox is a versatile, dependable compact SUV that combines comfort, advanced technology, and efficient performance. It was designed to cater to both growing families and individual drivers, offering a spacious cabin and plenty of cargo space. Combined, these two make the Equinox a standout choice for daily commutes as well as weekend trips. Not only that, but with its elegant form and sophisticated conveniences, the Chevrolet Equinox gives the everyday driver a good balance of practicality and style.

When you log on to Online.cars, you can find a used Chevy Equinox for sale in our extensive online inventory that covers the entire country. If you’ve never explored our online selection, you’ll see that it is easy to navigate, allowing you to view our massive inventory with a few clicks of a mouse. Additionally, our dedicated team—including your own personal Vehicle Solution Specialists—is here to help guide you, should you need assistance, all from the convenience of your couch. Continue reading to learn more about the various Equinox models and determine which one fits best into your day-to-day life. Then, look through our inventory to find your ideal model.

Chevy Equinox Overview

First, the Equinox has been a part of the Chevy lineup since 2005. Since then, there have been four generations, with the latest SUV version hitting dealerships this year. When shopping for a used Equinox, this means you have many options to consider, as each generation has built on an already solid contender for everyday driving. Throughout the years, there have been shifts in design and functionality, as well as the models offered. For instance, when the Equinox first debuted, it was only available in two model options, the LS and the LT. Those two still exist today, along with the RS and Premier models.

However, when the third generation was introduced, the Equinox offered an L base model rather than the RS. It wasn’t until 2022 that the L model was dropped in favor of the sporty RS model. With this in mind, our model history review will look at all five models that have been offered in the last few years to ensure you get the details you need to make an informed decision about your Equinox options.

Chevy Equinox L

As mentioned, the last time the L model was offered was in 2021. That version has a seating capacity of five—like all other Equinox models—as well as an estimated combined fuel efficiency of 28 MPG. Additionally, it offers a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs, which is more than enough to haul a travel trailer to the lake for the weekend. If you need more power, you can look for upgrades that increase your towing capacity to 3,500 lbs. Those upgrades include the 2.0 turbocharged engine and the trailering package. This is the same for all the Equinox models, and something to consider if you plan to use your Equinox for hauling.

Some of the safety features included with this base model include a collision warning system and traction control. When it comes to connectivity, the L model has you covered with the amenities you need most, including standard Bluetooth wireless technology, remote keyless entry, compatibility with smartphones, push-button start, a voice recognition system, and a touchscreen infotainment center, just to name a few. Also, the L was only available with front-wheel drive, while the other Equinox models offered all-wheel drive as well.

Across the board, this third generation of the Equinox was considered more “car-like,” with a smoother drive and responsive handling when navigating twists and turns, as well as tight city streets. It was also smaller and lighter than previous generations, making it more agile and efficient.

Chevrolet Equinox LS

As the third generation of the Equinox entered its fifth year in 2022, the LS became the new base model. The change also brought a refreshed exterior to all models, with a new headlight and grille design, along with redesigned front and rear bumpers.

Regarding the LS model, you have a choice of either front-wheel or all-wheel drive, depending on your needs. You’ll also find a long list of amenities, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, which work alongside the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system that has been included on all models since 2019. Also, your mobile devices will stay charged thanks to multiple USB ports. The LS also offers an available Driver Confidence II package that adds advanced safety features like Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Change Alert, and Rear Park Assist.

While the LS is the new base model, there’s nothing average about it. In fact, it has almost everything you might want in a used vehicle. Plus, buying used lets you find upgraded LS models with even more bells and whistles within your price range. Last but not least, the LS averages between 26 and 27 MPG combined fuel efficiency, depending on whether you choose all-wheel or front-wheel drive.

Chevrolet Equinox LT

Along with the LS, the LT has been in the Equinox lineup since the beginning, and it continues to be one of the more popular trims. This is thanks, in part, to its well-rounded features, giving drivers much of what they need and a lot of what they want while still coming in at an affordable price—especially when purchasing used.

Speaking of what you might want in an SUV when looking for a used LT, look for one with the Confidence & Convenience Package added to get the most bang for your buck. For instance, the 2023 version of this package gives you additional features like Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control, and a programmable power liftgate, as well as heated front seats. Want even more amenities? The Advanced Safety package gives you HD Surround Vision, Adaptive Cruise Control, and outside heated mirrors that are power-adjustable.

Another thing to consider as the model years start to shift is that you may also be able to find a used 2024 Equinox LT. With this newer version, the power liftgate and heated front seats are now standard. Finally, depending on whether you choose all-wheel or front-wheel drive, you can expect a combined fuel efficiency of between 26 and 28 MPG for all recent model years.

Chevrolet Equinox RS

The RS is the newest model in the Equinox lineup, with only a few years under its belt. However, it has quickly become a fan favorite for drivers wanting a sportier SUV. It also offers a number of perks, such as standard dual-zone climate control, a power liftgate, heated front seats, and remote start—essentially many of the amenities you’ll find on the LT when the Confidence & Convenience Package is added. If you need more of a sportier vibe, you can look for a used RS that includes the RS Leather package, which offers Jet Black perforated leather-appointed seats with red accents as well as a premium seven-speaker Bose audio system. It is the only Equinox model with this option.

Another consideration as you look through our used inventory is finding an RS model with the Chevy Infotainment 3 Plus system. This system gives you the same great options as the standard system, but you’ll enjoy an eight-inch touchscreen instead of the seven-inch one, as well as navigation, Alexa built-in, and more. These perks require the Safety and Infotainment package as well, so be sure to look for it or ask your dedicated Vehicle Solution Specialist for assistance in finding the right RS for you.

Chevrolet Equinox Premier

As mentioned above, shopping used can often allow you to find an SUV with a lot of amenities for a price that better fits your budget than buying new. For the Chevy Equinox, that top-of-the-line model is the Premier. While the RS offers a sporty, get-up-and-go feel, the Premier is the more sophisticated, older sibling. For instance, you can find a used 2023 version that includes leather-appointed front seats that include memory options for the driver’s seat, wireless charging, a hands-free liftgate, and the same eight-inch touchscreen that’s optional for the RS.

Like the RS and LT, the Premier is available as either a front-wheel or all-wheel drive, and its combined fuel efficiency is similar to the other models, which means the amenities could be the true deciding factor when choosing between the Equinox models.

Find Your Equinox From the Comfort of Home

Now that you know a bit more about the various Equinox models you’ll find in our online inventory, we invite you to log on and see what versions match your needs best. As mentioned, the website is easy to navigate, allowing you to put in filters during your search to ensure you get the best possible answers. In addition to detailed information about each vehicle, you’ll also find clear pricing, accurate mileage information, and a vehicle history report. Of course, if you have questions, you can always reach out by clicking on the “Text Us” button for each listing. If you’re ready to see if the Chevrolet Equinox is a good fit for your needs, check out our online inventory today.