The Chevy Equinox is one of Chevrolet's best-selling vehicles, even replacing some other vehicles in the Chevy family thanks to its popularity. Let’s take a closer look at some of the generations to see what makes each one unique.
Key takeaways
- The Equinox sees changes every few years making sure that it always stays up to date in their respective generation.
- The earlier third generation models saw a diesel engine that was eventually discontinued.
- If you’re wanting more tech features, then look for models that were released after 2015.
- If you’re wanting more safety features, then look for a model from the third generation.
First Generation (2005-2009)
While the Equinox was released in 2005 it saw its first update in 2006. This update saw changes to the dashboard panel. This panel was re-colored from gray to black. GM badges were also added to the front doors of the Equinox. 2007 also saw some change, this change was to the instrument cluster which added a trip computer display.
Second Generation (2010-2017)
When the Equinox was released for the second generation, it came with smaller engines. The standard engine is the 2.4-liter I4 while the optional engine is the 3.0-liter V6 engine. Regardless of the engine that comes equipped on the vehicle, you can find that both come with an automatic six-speed transmission. While front-wheel drive is standard, some Equinox may come as all-wheel drive.
When the 2013 model came out, the Equinox received a new engine that was available on LT and LTZ trims. This engine was a 3.6-liter V6. When this was equipped, the Equinox gained a new suspension package that came with 18 or 19-inch chrome-clad wheels.
When 2014 came around, the chrome wheels became standard on the LTZ trim. 2015 saw some tech additions to the vehicle. These additions were OnStar with 4G LTE and built-in Wi-Fi hotspot that came standard on the LT and LTZ trims.
2016 saw the biggest changes yet for the vehicle as it was the first mid-cycle refresh. Some of the changes for the Equinox included a new grille, front fascia, and headlights. The interior of the vehicle also saw a new storage compartment where the CD once was. The Equinox also received a new gear selector.
2017 was the last model year for this generation, but Chevy still wanted to make sure that it was the best they could offer before the next generation. The Equinox gained two new packages, one being the Sport edition, and the other being Midnight edition.
Both packages came with 18-inch black-painted five-spoke aluminum wheels, black exterior Chevrolet emblems, black accented grille and rear fascia, black roof-rack cross bars, Jet Black perforated leather-appointed seats, and memory driver seat and exterior mirrors. While the two packages shared the same features, the main difference is the exterior colors. The Sport Edition comes with white paint and the Midnight Edition comes with black paint.
Third Generation (2018-2024)
When this generation came out it was slightly smaller than the ones before it in an effort to bring it more in line with other compact crossover SUVs. The Equinox also came with some new safety features this generation. These features are surround-view camera, forward collision warning, and low-speed automatic braking.
This generation also saw the addition of a diesel-powered variant that was available in 2017 and lasting until 2019. While the 2.0-liter turbo I4 was discontinued in 2021 due to low demand.
When 2022 came around, the Equinox came with a mid cycle refresh. The changes to the vehicle included a new front grille, redesigned headlamps, along with a restyled lower fascia with different fog lamps.
Summary
There’s a reason that the Equinox is consistently one of the best-selling vehicles in the Chevy family. If you’re wanting to learn more or even check out our inventory, come see us at Jarrett Auto Group.