If you're shopping for a used compact SUV that won't break the bank, the 2015 Chevy Equinox often pops up on radar screens. It's a pragmatic commuter vehicle that bridges the gap between sedan fuel economy and utility. Let's look at what makes this crossover tick, what to watch out for, and whether it deserves a spot in your driveway.
Underneath its modest exterior lies a platform designed for daily comfort and straightforward hauling. While it doesn't boast sports-car handling or rugged off-road credentials, it delivers a predictable ride that appeals to budget-conscious buyers.
Engine Options and Real-World Performance
Chevrolet offered two distinct powerplants for this model year, and your driving experience changes drastically depending on which one you pick.
The base engine is a 2.4-liter Ecotec four-cylinder pushing out 182 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While it handles daily grocery runs and highway cruising just fine, it feels strained when fully loaded or climbing steep inclines.
If you need extra passing power or plan on pulling a small trailer, look for the optional 3.6-liter V6 engine. Generating 301 horsepower and 264 lb-ft of torque, this V6 turns the Equinox into a confident highway cruiser. It also bumps the maximum towing capacity up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
Interior Comfort and Cargo Utility
Cabin space is where this crossover shines for growing families. Rear-seat passengers get generous legroom thanks to the Multi-Flex sliding rear seat, which travels nearly eight inches forward and backward. You can prioritize rear legroom or push the seats forward to expand cargo volume.
Cargo capacity stands at 31.5 cubic feet behind the second row. Fold those seats flat, and that number expands to 63.7 cubic feet. It's enough room for camping gear, bicycles, or large home improvement hauls.
Interior materials lean toward durable plastics and soft-touch armrests on higher trims like the LT and LTZ. Road noise is kept to a minimum thanks to active noise cancellation on four-cylinder models, creating a quiet cabin environment on long highway trips.
Fuel Economy and Operating Costs
Efficiency is a major selling point for the four-cylinder variant. According to the U.S. Department of Energy Fuel Economy Guide, front-wheel-drive models equipped with the 2.4-liter engine achieve roughly 22 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. All-wheel-drive versions drop slightly to about 20 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.
The V6 models trade fuel economy for power, returning closer to 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway with front-wheel drive. Maintenance parts are widely available and affordable since GM produced these crossovers in massive volumes, keeping routine repair bills manageable.
Common Problems and What to Inspect
No used car is perfect, and knowing what breaks saves you money down the road. Keep these trouble spots in mind during your test drive:
- Oil consumption: The 2.4-liter Ecotec engine is notorious for burning oil due to piston ring wear. Check the oil level frequently and ask sellers for maintenance records.
- Timing chain wear: Worn timing chains can trigger check engine lights or cause engine failure if ignored. Listen for rattling noises on startup.
- Suspension wear: Front struts, sway bar links, and bushings wear out around 100,000 miles, leading to clunking sounds over bumps.
- Infotainment glitches: The MyLink touch screen can freeze or lag. Software updates at a local dealer often resolve these bugs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2015 Chevy Equinox have Apple CarPlay?
No, factory Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration did not arrive in the Equinox until the 2018 redesign. The 2015 model relies on Bluetooth audio streaming and USB connectivity via the IntelliLink or MyLink system.
Is the all-wheel-drive system good for deep snow?
The front-wheel-drive-based AWD system works well for rain, slush, and light snowstorms. However, it lacks low-range gearing or locking differentials, so it's not built for off-roading or deep unplowed drifts.
What is the towing capacity of the V6 model?
When equipped with the optional 3.6-liter V6 and a factory towing package, the Equinox can pull up to 3,500 pounds. Four-cylinder models are not rated for heavy towing.
How long do these engines typically last?
With regular oil changes and prompt maintenance, both the four-cylinder and V6 engines easily surpass 150,000 miles, with many well-maintained units crossing the 200,000-mile threshold.
