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We explore the differences and similarities between new and used Chevy Equinox models. Find out which is the better bargain here in our article.
Crossover Showdown
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If you have been looking into a compact SUV, the Chevy Equinox should be at the top of your list of considerations. Since its introduction in 2005, the Chevy Equinox has become Chevy’s top crossover SUV with a versatile interior and car-like handling. It is certainly among the best in its class.
However, in these challenging times, we are all looking for the best value. We want to make sure that our money is well spent, and thus the question of new vs. used vehicles comes up. Is a used Chevrolet Equinox a better buy than a new one?
In this article, we’ll compare a used 2019 Chevy Equinox to a new Chevy 2022 Equinox and highlight some of the key differences and similarities to find out the best bang for your buck.
Specs
It is rather unfortunate that Chevy’s grossly underpowered 1.5L turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine made a return in 2022. Fans of the Equinox’s design desired more power and performance, and that came with the hopes of a bigger engine.
The thing is: they’re the same engine. If you think you’ll coax more power out of a brand-new Equinox, think again. Drivers get 170 horsepower and 203 ft. lbs. of torque from this engine.
The powertrain is a 6-speed automatic with front-wheel drive as a standard option. Of course, both versions were also available with optional AWD capabilities. Maximum payload capacity is still 1,139 lbs. on both models, as well as a 3,500 lbs. towing capacity when equipped properly.
Both versions have a Macpherson front suspension (independent suspension all the way around), and the infotainment options are also the same. In a side-by-side comparison, it is hard to tell the difference between the two models when it comes to the specifications.
This makes a used Chevy Equinox a better buy already!
Driving and Performance
Both new and used Chevy Equinoxes offer superior handling. It is fun, sporty, and unlike any SUV you’ve ever driven.
The biggest downfall for both is the limited power provided by the I4 turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine. However, with a combined fuel efficiency rating of 28 mpg, it is easy to see that this crossover SUV was designed for economical driving.
In city traffic, the Chevy Equinox handles responsively and directly. However, the engine really holds back on at highway speeds and seems to be sluggish when passing highway traffic. If you happen to grab a model with AWD capabilities, the power loss will be felt even more due to the added powertrain weight.
The 6-speed automatic transmission with driver shifting is smooth and does very well at transferring the power to the ground. Climbing hills, however, is a little unsatisfying as it does not like to shift down. This is due to Chevy’s concentration on fuel economy rather than performance.
A side-by-side comparison shows that both the 2019 Chevy Equinox and the 2022 Chevy Equinox both provide drivers with a great handling compact SUV with enough fuel economy to make up for the lack of power. If the newer models employed a bigger engine, then drivers would flock to the newer version. That is just not the case this year, unfortunately.
Comfort and Interior
Whether you’re planning a night out on the town or a cross-country adventure, a new or used Chevy Equinox will provide exceptional comfort and storage capacity. For a small SUV, it certainly doesn’t lack comfort.
Depending on the trim, cloth seats and leather seats can be found in both models. This gives drivers the ability to find the interior that best suits their tastes.
Taller drivers and passengers will also be surprised to find the headroom of both models at around 40 inches. For compact SUV, Chevy nailed interior comfort down firmly.
Drivers can expect an impressive 40 inches of rear legroom for the passengers and 41 inches of legroom up front. With the seats in the upright position, there is still 30 cubic feet of storage space. When you fold the seats down, this grows to an impressive 64 cubic feet.
One of the best things about both a new and used Chevy Equinox is the comfort. The interior is spacious and versatile. The 5-seater is great for packing up the family for a trip without the feeling of being crammed in a small space.
Trims and Features
That’s big savings on a low mileage vehicle equipped with some optional features.
The market shows used 2019 Chevy Equinox models priced well below MSRP pricing (of course), and many of them are low mileage vehicles that can easily be had for under $23,000. One example is a 2019 Chevy Equinox LT with AWD, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, and a powered driver’s seat. For this type of trim, drivers can expect to find it around the $20,000 range used.
Now, here’s where things get interesting…
Finally, the Premier is the big hitter in the lineup. Drivers can expect a leather interior and premium appointments such as a more intuitive infotainment system with Chevrolet’s MyLink capability and full Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. Without additional options, the 2022 Chevy Equinox Premier is priced at $34,495 MSRP.
Step up to the LT model and you’ll find a few more standard features such as daytime running lamps, an overhead sunglasses compartment, and powered windows and seats. The 2022 Chevy Equinox LT is priced at $28,795 MSRP.
Now, let’s back up. The LS is the base model Equinox. It is priced at $27,695 MSRP (2022 model) without any options, but it still offers an infotainment system. Used LS models can come with rear infotainment systems (with or without DVD) and tons of options such as roof-mounted luggage wracks and lighting packages.
First, the addition of the RS lineup in 2022 brought in some sporty appointments such as 19-inch wheels and blacked-out interior trims. The MSRP on the RS model is $31,995. Drivers get many of the same options as the LS and LT trims with only the stylistic differences setting them apart.
For 2019, there were three trim models: LS, LT, and Premier. In 2022, Chevy added another trim option – the RS. Let’s break down what these trims offer.
Final Thoughts
You can find a wide selection of used Chevy Equinox models right here on carsforsale.com! Happy driving!
Even more appealing is the fact that a used Chevy Equinox can save drivers serious money because the 2022 updates were mainly stylistic. That definitely makes buying a used Chevy Equinox well worth it since the majority of the features in the new Chevy Equinox have been left unchanged.
The Chevy Equinox is a spacious and versatile crossover SUV with some impressive options. While the powertrain leaves more to be desired, the overall concept is smart and efficient. For drivers who are not concerned with power, this is the perfect package.
