The 2015 Chevrolet Equinox is a popular and affordable midsize SUV. The entry-level L is a bit too basic, lacking even a backup camera. LS models make a good starting point and can be found in FWD or AWD. The LT trim comes in two tiers, 1LT and 2LT, and introduces a V6 engine. LTZ models feature most options as standard.
Key Points
- The 2015 Chevrolet Equinox comes in four trim levels: L, LS, LT, and LTZ. LT models are split into two, the 1LT and 2LT. Private party pricing runs from roughly $16,000 for an L to $20,000 for an LTZ.
- L models are only available in front-wheel-drive (FWD) configuration, LS and higher trims are standard with FWD but available with all-wheel-drive (AWD).
- LS doesn’t add much to Equinox, other than available AWD, a few more exterior and interior color options, and an upgraded audio system with SiriusXM capability.
- LT’s 1LT and 2LT trims offer an optional 3.6L V6 engine with higher towing capacity. However, fuel economy takes a hit, dropping six to seven mpg over the base 2.4L four-cylinder.
- Equinox LTZ comes standard with the most features, like 18-inch wheels, an eight-speaker audio system, and leather upholstery. Several add-on packages are offered for those wanting more creature comforts.
2015 Equinox L Trim is Poorly Equipped Overall, Lacks Basics Like Standard Backup Camera
By most standards, the entry-level trim is sparsely equipped. The Equinox L trim is only available in a front-wheel-drive configuration with an inline-four-cylinder engine. A six-speed automatic paired to the 2.4L Ecotec four-cylinder produces 182 horsepower and gives the Equinox a fuel economy rating of 22/31 miles to the gallon city/highway. The 2.4L will surely get the job done but will feel far from sporty.
On Equinox L, you will find only one color cloth interior; however, you will still find the OnStar system, Bluetooth, and a navigation system with an onboard 4G hotspot. Additionally, it is worth noting, for the 2015 Equinox, a rear-view camera was not standard equipment. Some individuals may feel uncomfortable driving an SUV without a rear-view camera to guide them and will need to look to the highest trim levels for this now commonplace feature.
2015 Equinox LS Trim Introduces Few Upgrades Over L but does Add the Availability of AWD
Like the base level Equinox, the LS trim is lightly equipped, with few options. Again, the 2.4L four-cylinder is the only powertrain available, with only 182 hp to move a nearly 4,000-pound vehicle. However, the LS and higher trim levels do allow a four-wheel-drive configuration. It is also worth mentioning that all Equinox models equipped with the 2.4L are described as having unresponsive power steering systems, further contributing to a poor driving experience.
Visually, the LS differs only slightly from the L trim, as the fascias on all Equinox models are offered in 11 body colors, with charcoal-colored lower sections on LS and LT. On the interior, the Equinox is offered in Jet Black cloth or Light Titanium cloth. The only other notable equipment included in the LS trim is the upgraded stereo system with SiriusXM.
2015 Equinox LT Trim is Split Between Two Levels, 1LT and 2LT, the Latter Offering Optional Leather Seats and Upgraded Safety Features
The LT trim is available in two subcategories: 1LT, and 2LT, an unnecessary way to offer the LT trim. However, it does allow the Equinox to become considerably more well-equipped. Options are split drastically between the two LT trim levels, which can make purchasing an Equinox LT confusing.
Even on the 1LT, leather upholstery isn’t an option. On the upgraded 2LT, leather is optional, in three colors. Additionally, the rear-view camera is an option on 1LT the model, but standard equipment on the 2LT. Finally, the 2LT trim level also offers a forward collision alert system, lane departure warning, and rear park assist.
The most significant change for the LT trim level is the optional 3.6L V6 engine, which produces a peppier 301 horsepower and 272 lb.-ft. of torque. Equipped with the V6, the Equinox has a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, more than double the four-cylinder, allowing some room for light hauling. However, Equinox takes a hit to its fuel economy rating with the V6, falling to a combined mpg rating of 19 city/highway.
2015 Equinox Flagship LTZ Trim Sports Chrome Exterior Accents, Standard Leather Upholstery, Higher Price Tag
Surprisingly, the most well-equipped trim level for the 2015 Equinox does not include the V6 as standard equipment, and instead, the model is essentially just the 2LT with chrome. The LTZ includes several additional options as standard but still leaves out many more desirable add-ons, only to be added at additional costs.
The LTZ is equipped with a forward collision alert, lane departure warning, rear park assist, and the rear-view camera, all standard. On the inside, the upgraded leather interior upholstery and the eight-speaker pioneer audio system are standard. On the exterior, the LTZ is dressed with some additional chrome trim, 18-inch alloy chrome wheels, rear parking sensors, as well as a power liftgate.
On the used market, the highest-level trim Equinox has an average private party value of $15,968 in good condition, whereas the average L model in good condition will cost you nearly $4,000 less. For families looking to get into an affordable midsize SUV, this could easily be a deal-breaker, as the LTZ won’t offer much more over an entry-level Equinox as a kid hauling grocery-getter.
2015 Chevrolet Equinox Provides Decent Tech at a Reasonable Cost, with the L Trim Standing out for its Minimal Price Spread
While the LTZ is the highest-level model available, compared to a lower-trim Equinox, it offers little to nothing more standard, other than some chrome. However, an entry-level model’s sensible price and the standard technology make it a reasonable choice for buyers, so long as they aren’t dissuaded by the missing amenities found on the higher trim levels.
Photos: Chevrolet
