Best Chevrolet Equinox Model Years (Ranked)
The Chevrolet Equinox is one of America's most popular compact crossovers, valued for its roomy cabin, easy ride, and affordable price. But the Equinox has a checkered reliability history, with certain model years plagued by serious engine problems while others are dependable, sensible used buys. Choosing the right year is the difference between a trouble-free family hauler and a vehicle facing a costly engine replacement. This ranking sorts the best Chevrolet Equinox model years by engine reliability, known defects, ride and interior quality, and used-market value.
We weighed the engines (the problematic early 2.4L Ecotec with its excessive oil consumption and timing-chain issues, the much-better 1.5L and 2.0L turbo fours, the 1.6L diesel), transmission behavior, the major reliability differences between the second and third generations, recall history, and current used pricing. The result is a clear, honest guide to which Equinox years to buy and, just as importantly, which ones to avoid.
The best overall Chevrolet Equinox model year is the 2020, a late third-generation example. By 2020 Chevrolet had refined the third-gen platform, the 2.0L turbo (252 hp) and 1.5L turbo (170 hp) engines were proven, infotainment and safety tech were modern, and the early third-gen bugs were resolved. It offers the best balance of reliability, features, and ride comfort.
The best value Chevrolet Equinox is the 2018, the first year of the third generation. The redesign brought efficient turbo engines, a lighter body, and a nicer interior, and prices have now fallen into affordable used territory. The 1.5L turbo is the engine to get for the best blend of economy and dependability. Avoid the troubled 2010-2013 second-gen 2.4L cars entirely.
*Note: Prices vary significantly based on condition and market; these are representative of the model's typical market positioning.*
1. 2020 Equinox (3rd Gen) 🏆 BEST OVERALL
The 2020 is the most refined version of the third-generation Equinox. The 1.5L turbo-four (170 hp, 203 lb-ft) is efficient and reliable, returning around 31 mpg highway, while the available 2.0L turbo (252 hp, 260 lb-ft) adds real punch for buyers who want more power. By 2020 Chevrolet had sorted the early third-gen quirks, standardized modern safety features like automatic emergency braking, and updated the infotainment. The ride is comfortable and the cabin is quiet and roomy for the class. This is the most well-rounded and dependable Equinox you can buy, combining proven turbo engines with strong used value. Confirm the 9-speed automatic shifts cleanly and that scheduled maintenance was followed.
2. 2018 Equinox (3rd Gen, launch) 💎 BEST VALUE
The 2018 launched the much-improved third generation with a lighter body, a more upscale interior, and efficient turbocharged engines. The 1.5L turbo (170 hp) is the value pick, delivering good fuel economy and avoiding the second gen's notorious 2.4L problems. A 1.6L turbodiesel option offered up to 39 mpg highway for high-mileage drivers. Because it is the first year of the generation, prices have dropped into genuinely affordable territory, making the 2018 the best value in the lineup. As a launch year, verify software updates were applied and that the turbo and transmission behave normally on a test drive.
3. 2021 Equinox (3rd Gen, refresh)
The 2021 brought a mid-cycle refresh with updated styling, a revised interior, and a larger standard infotainment screen. Mechanically it centered on the proven 1.5L turbo as the primary engine (the 2.0L was dropped for 2021). It carries forward the third gen's reliability and comfort with a freshened look. It ranks just below the 2018-2020 because prices remain higher for the newer styling while the powertrain is essentially the same dependable 1.5L turbo. For buyers who want the updated look and don't mind paying a bit more, the 2021 is a solid, safe choice.
4. 2019 Equinox (3rd Gen)
The 2019 is a strong middle-year third-gen Equinox with the 1.5L and 2.0L turbo engines and standard or available driver-assistance features. It shares the 2020's maturity at a slightly lower price, making it a smart alternative for value-focused buyers. The 2.0L turbo paired with the 9-speed automatic is the most engaging combination, while the 1.5L is the economy choice. This is a dependable, sensible used buy that splits the difference between the bargain 2018 and the most-refined 2020. Verify oil-change history and clean transmission shifts before purchase.
5. 2022 Equinox (3rd Gen)
The 2022 continues the refreshed third generation with the reliable 1.5L turbo, expanded standard safety equipment, and minor trim updates. It is one of the newest Equinox model years on this list, which means the longest remaining warranty and the freshest tech, but also the highest used price. Choose the 2022 if you want a nearly new Equinox with proven mechanicals and don't need to maximize value. The 1.5L turbo's modest power is the main limitation; buyers wanting more grunt will find these later years can feel underpowered when loaded.
6. 2023 Equinox (3rd Gen, final ICE)
The 2023 is among the last of the gasoline third-generation Equinox models before the platform shifted toward the new EV. It offers the dependable 1.5L turbo, full modern safety tech, and the most up-to-date infotainment of the gas Equinox run. It ranks here because depreciation has barely begun, so you pay near-new prices. For shoppers who want the newest conventional Equinox with the longest warranty and don't mind paying for it, the 2023 is the most current pick. The 1.5L's leisurely acceleration remains the chief complaint.
7. 2017 Equinox (2nd Gen, final year)
The 2017 is the last year of the second generation, and crucially it is far more reliable than the early 2.4L second-gen cars. By 2017 the platform was old but well-sorted, and the available 3.6L V6 (301 hp) is a smooth, durable engine that avoids the 2.4L oil-consumption nightmare. The 2.4L four was still offered, so steer toward the V6 or a documented, well-maintained example. The 2017 is a decent budget pick for buyers who want the older, simpler Equinox and choose the right engine. Prices are low because the third gen overshadowed it.
8. 2016 Equinox (2nd Gen)
The 2016 is another late second-gen year that benefits from accumulated fixes to the 2.4L engine, though oil consumption can still appear on neglected examples. The 3.6L V6 remains the safer engine choice for power and durability. Build quality and the dated interior reflect the platform's age, but the ride is comfortable and parts are cheap. Buy a 2016 only with the V6 or with thorough documentation of oil consumption monitoring on the 2.4L. It is a budget option, not a long-term reliability standout.
9. 2014-2015 Equinox (2nd Gen)
The 2014-2015 cars improved over the earliest second-gen models but the 2.4L Ecotec engine still carries a real oil-consumption and timing-chain risk, the defining weakness of this generation. The 3.6L V6 is the engine to seek. These are inexpensive and roomy, but the four-cylinder reliability question keeps them low on this list. Approach the 2.4L cars with extreme caution and a compression and oil-consumption check; the V6 versions are a much safer bet for buyers who want a cheap, larger compact crossover.
10. 2010-2013 Equinox (2nd Gen, early)
The early second-generation Equinox is the one to avoid. These model years are notorious for severe 2.4L Ecotec oil consumption, timing-chain wear, and resulting engine failures, generating extensive owner complaints and even legal action. While the 3.6L V6 versions are more durable, the four-cylinder cars defined this generation's poor reputation. They are extremely cheap for a reason. Buy a 2010-2013 Equinox only if it has the V6 and impeccable records, or skip it entirely; the engine-replacement risk on the 2.4L cars makes them a gamble not worth taking.
What to Watch For When Buying
The single most important Equinox issue is the 2.4L Ecotec engine's excessive oil consumption and timing-chain wear on second-generation cars (2010-2017). This defect can lead to engine failure if oil runs low, so on any 2.4L car, check oil level, look for blue exhaust smoke, and demand maintenance records; the 3.6L V6 avoids the problem. On third-gen turbo cars (2018+), the engines are far more reliable, but verify the 9-speed automatic shifts smoothly and that turbo boost is normal. Across all years, run the VIN for open recalls and confirm scheduled oil changes were performed on time, since turbo and direct-injection engines are sensitive to neglect.
How to Choose
For the best overall ownership, choose a 2020 third-gen Equinox with either turbo engine. For maximum value, a 2018 or 2019 with the 1.5L turbo offers modern reliability at a low price. If you are on a tight budget and must buy second-gen, insist on the 3.6L V6 and thorough records, never an undocumented 2.4L. Buyers who want more power should target the 2.0L turbo (2018-2020), while economy-focused drivers will be happy with the 1.5L. In every case, the engine choice and documented maintenance matter far more than the model year alone.
FAQ
What is the most reliable Chevrolet Equinox model year? The 2020 model year is widely considered the most reliable, as it benefits from the refined third-generation platform with proven 1.5L and 2.0L turbo engines. Earlier third-gen issues were addressed by this point, making it a dependable choice.
Which Equinox years should I avoid due to engine problems? The 2010–2012 models with the 2.4L Ecotec engine are notorious for excessive oil consumption and timing-chain failures. These issues can lead to costly repairs, so they are best avoided unless the engine has been replaced or rebuilt.
Are newer Equinox models more reliable than older ones? Generally, yes. The third-generation models (2018 and later) have fewer major engine and transmission defects than the second-generation (2010–2017). However, early third-gen years like 2018 had some infotainment glitches, so 2020 onward is the sweet spot.
How long can a well-maintained Equinox last? With proper care, a third-generation Equinox can often reach 150,000–200,000 miles. The 1.5L and 2.0L turbo engines are durable, but regular oil changes and timely maintenance are crucial to avoid common issues.
Is the Equinox expensive to repair compared to rivals? Repair costs are moderate—similar to other compact crossovers like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4. However, the 2.4L Ecotec engine repairs can be pricier due to timing-chain and oil-consumption problems, so choosing a later model year helps keep costs down.
What is the best used Equinox for a tight budget? The 2016–2017 models offer a good value, as they are from the later second generation with fewer engine issues than earlier years. They provide a comfortable ride and decent features without the higher price of newer models.
Bottom Line
The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox is the best all-around buy, with proven turbo engines, modern safety tech, and strong used value. For the most car per dollar, the 2018 third-gen with the 1.5L turbo is the value winner. The most important rule with the Equinox is engine choice: avoid the second-generation 2.4L cars with their oil-consumption defect, favor the 3.6L V6 if you must buy second-gen, and choose any third-gen turbo for dependable, comfortable family transportation.
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Sources
- Chevrolet Equinox — Wikipedia overview of generations and specifications
- Chevrolet.com official Equinox model and powertrain specifications
- Edmunds Chevrolet Equinox reliability and model-year reviews
- Consumer Reports Chevrolet Equinox reliability ratings by year
- NHTSA recall and complaint database for the Chevrolet Equinox
- Kelley Blue Book (KBB.com) used Equinox values and reviews
- Car and Driver Equinox road tests and powertrain reviews
- CarComplaints.com Chevrolet Equinox owner-reported problems by year
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