Four trims make the 2013 Chevrolet Equinox a versatile SUV, whether you’re after a utilitarian commuter SUV with the LS, something with more creature comforts and engine upgrade, like the 1LT or 2LT, or all the available luxuries in the LTZ.
Key Points
- Choose between the 2013 Equinox LS, 1LT, 2LT, and LTZ. Considering a unit with approximately 99,000 miles on it, Blue Book pricing ranges from around $10,400 on LS, to $14,200 on a fully-loaded LTZ.
- All Equinox models are available in front-wheel-drive (FWD) or all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations. A 2.4L four-cylinder engine is standard on all models, but LT and LTZ models offer an optional 301-hp 3.6L V6.
- LS trim comes with a decent number of standard items, like ABS brakes, Bluetooth, and blind-spot mirrors, but are limited to the 2.4L engine. Pricing starts a hair under $10,000 on FWD units, up to $11,300 for clean AWD models.
- Equinox LT is split into two tiers, 1LT and 2LT. Both add premium cloth upholstery, but the 2LT makes them heated. Also find premium audio in the 2LT, and auto-start is built into the factory key fob and is tied to the automatic climate control settings.
- LTZ trim comes at an exceptional value, ranging from $12,100 to $15,300 depending on its condition and if it’s FWD, AWD, or has the four-cylinder engine or the V6. Regardless, with a 4.3-star/five Vehicle History owner reviews rating, you’re more than likely to have a good experience.
2013 Chevrolet Equinox LS Trim Sports a Number of Exciting Base Features, Like AC, ABS, and Exclusive Multi-flex Sliding Rear Seats
There’s a lot to get excited about in even the base trim of the 2013 Chevrolet Equinox, like standard stability and traction control, four-wheel ABS brakes, AC, and Bluetooth wireless technology for hands-free calling.
Swinging right out of the gate, even the LS trim still features the model’s family-friendly Multi-Flex rear seats, which can slide forward or backward for nearly eight inches of extra legroom. Other features in the LS include a tilt-telescopic steering wheel, an occupant-sensing airbag system, a compass with an exterior temperature display, a front USB port, and mounted audio controls. LS models also carry power-adjustable, heated outside mirrors with built-in blind-spot indicators.
Only the 2.4L four-cylinder engine is available in the LS, paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. Together, these help the 2013 Equinox achieve an EPA-estimated mpg of 22 city and 31 highway when configured with FWD. AWD models drop to 20/28 city/highway.
Kelley Blue Book shows a January 2022 Fair Market Range for a 2013 Equinox LS from $9,400 to $11,300 when configured with FWD. AWD models should run an extra $500 or so on average.
2013 Chevrolet Equinox 1LT and 2LT Make Great Stair Stepper Trims, Adding Options Such as a Rearview Camera, Seven-inch Touchscreen, and Heated Seats
Next up is the 1LT trim, which sports a premium cloth interior with a nicer hand than that of the LS, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, backup camera, roof rack, and larger seven-inch infotainment screen. For more options, the 2LT is the perfect step up, adding heated seats, automatic climate control, and fog lamps. What’s more, enjoy an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory, a premium Pioneer eight-speaker audio system, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a built-in auto-start.
Both LT trims offer optional hill start assist, and both can be found with a sunroof. However, one of the most noteworthy additions in the LT trims is the availability of the 301-horsepower 3.6L V6. This is the same engine found in the likes of the larger Chevy Traverse SUV or the Camaro sports car, and even in luxury models from Cadillac like the CTS and XTS. Fuel economy, of course, takes a small hit, dropping to 17 city and 24 highway in FWD configuration. Miles per gallon fall further with AWD, to 16/23 city/highway.
Also optional on the 2LT, the Safety Package adds forward-collision alert, lane-departure warning, and rear park assist. For a FWD 1LT with the four-cylinder, Kelley Blue Book shows a Fair Purchase Price of $11,600. Upgrade to a 2LT with AWD and the V6, and the Fair Purchase Range jumps from $11,900 to $13,900.
2013 Chevrolet Equinox LTZ Features Most Options as Standard, Showcases Leather Seating, Chrome Exterior Accents, Upgraded Headlamps
The LTZ adds on top of the 2LT an eight-way power-adjustable passenger seat, perforated leather seats in both rows, rear parking sensors, and a power-programmable liftgate. If the LTZ is paired with the 3.6L V6 it will automatically receive the FE2 suspension package which gives a firmer ride. The Safety Package that was optional on 2LT is now standard, as is a universal home remote and upgraded halogen headlamps.
In FWD configuration with the 2.4L four-cylinder, the 2013 Equinox LTZ has a Fair Market Range of between $12,100 to $14,400. Spring for the V6 model with AWD, and pricing jumps to roughly $13,000 to $15,300 at a dealer.
2013 Chevrolet Equinox is a Bargain at Any Trim and Holds a High Overall Rating Among Owners
The 2013 Chevy Equinox rests on good bones no matter how you spec it. If you’re working with a budget of around $10,000, the LS will make a fine, fuel-efficient option thanks to having most of the modern must-haves like AC and Bluetooth. LT trims make for a great upgrade if features like a larger touchscreen, a more powerful engine, or added safety features are what you’re after.
For those who prefer to minimize the confusion and have a slightly higher budget, the Equinox LTZ comes with most creature comforts as standard, and sports unique exterior styling as well.
Regardless, with a 4.3-star/five Owner Reviews rating on Vehicle History, you’re very likely to have a good experience if you do decide on a 2013 Chevy Equinox.
Photos: Chevrolet
