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Buying a Used Chevy? Consider These Reliable Options

A red 2018 Chevy Impala LTZ is shown speeding on a city street.

If you’ve visited your local used Chevy dealership or, in fact, any used car lot, then you’ve probably noticed a scarcity of high-quality used models. Because of the product and supply chain shortages and fluctuating gas prices, brand-new cars are harder to come by, meaning everyone is looking for the best deal on used vehicles that are available right now. If you’re in the market for a used vehicle and have noticed the dealer lots are picked over and are unsure what to choose, let us help make your day a little easier. It’s tough to go wrong with Chevy; whether you’re a loyal Chevy driver or just starting to consider the brand, Chevy is a name that is synonymous with power and reliability.

The iconic automotive maker also has a strong reputation for delivering more for your money, making budget-friendly and long-lasting vehicles you can count on every day. Check out below for some of the highest-ranked, budget-friendly Chevy models available now. When you’re ready to get behind the wheel of a great Chevy vehicle, visit us here at Edwards Chevrolet Downtown, and we’ll be more than happy to help you find that perfect model.

A grey 2019 Chevy Equinox is shown driving through a city after leaving a used Chevy dealership.

The Chevy Equinox

The Chevy Equinox has gained a reputation for being a steady, reliable family crossover SUV. Since its introduction in 2005, it has gained in popularity and continues to perform well in the crossover market against steep competition like the Ford Escape. The Equinox is nothing if not consistent. The compact SUV has earned continual praise from the likes of J.D. Power and Kelley Blue Book for its exceptional safety features and roomy cabin that gives drivers and passengers plenty of head and leg room, making them perfect commuter and road trip vehicles.

If you’re looking to get the most for your money, check out the second generation that ran from 2010 to 2017. These years included enhanced fuel economy, standard front-wheel drive, and optional all-wheel drive. The standard engine was upgraded to a more efficient 2.4L four-cylinder engine, along with a 3.0L V6 for those looking for a little more pep in their drive. Throughout the second generation, Chevy made little changes here and there, with a full facelift occurring in 2016 that included new interior and exterior design and newly added standard safety features like a backup camera for an extra set of eyes.

If newer is what you’re interested in, level up to the third-generation, which consists of 2018 models and higher, for the latest in tech and upgrades. The 2018 redesign created a smaller, more efficient vehicle than previous generations. Drivers can also stretch their dollar further and unlock new technology like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto connectivity. A whole host of safety features were added, including a backup camera and forward collision warning, among other things. A 1.5L Turbo engine became standard, with an option to level up to a 1.6L Turbo-Diesel or a 2.0L Turbo. The latest generation of Equinoxes is considered some of the safest, most efficient models, with the 2020 and 2021 models becoming a top safety pick for the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

The Chevy Impala

The Impala often tops the list as one of Chevy’s best-selling vehicles, beating out popular models like the Malibu and the Bolt. The Impala has been produced by Chevy since the late 1950s and made quite a name for itself as a practical sedan that families and commuters turn to when they need reliability and value. The tenth generation of Impala models, from 2014 to 2020, saw vast improvements and is considered the best generation yet. The Impala represents a remarkable value, with drivers getting far more for their money than expected.

Why is the tenth generation considered so great? Because you might notice its price tag is a tad higher than in previous years. That’s because when it came to the tenth generation, Chevy didn’t hold back, packing the full-size sedan with a host of safety features, including ten airbags and panic brake assist, in addition to an updated interior design, more responsive handling, and updated powertrain options, making this an unbeatable value as far as used cars are considered.

The entire generation offers drivers great value, but if you want to pay a little less and still get access to the latest technology, opt for 2016 models and above to take advantage of added features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a wireless charging option to make it easy to stay connected while on the road. Chevy may have discontinued this model in 2020, but it is still maintaining a healthy life on the used market.

A red 2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 LTZ is shown driving on an open road.

The Chevy Silverado

If you’ve ever hunted for used trucks, then no doubt you’ve come across the impressive Chevy Silverado. As one of the most popular selling full-size trucks on the market, they are impossible to miss. Plus with production starting in 1999, there are plenty of model years and trims to choose from. Whether you need a family vehicle or a work truck, the Silverado offers the flexibility and value drivers want in this age of rising gas prices and shortages.

The commonness of the Chevy Silverado makes it an easy truck to find, even in tight markets. The best part is that once you invest in a Silverado, you’ll be happy to hear that they actually increase in value! So if you’re looking to trade in or trade up your old Silverado for a newer model, you are in a great spot right now to do so. So out of all the Silverados out there, which ones should you keep an out for? That all depends on your budget and your needs. It’s generally accepted that the second generation of Silverado models, ranging from 2007 to 2013, are some of the best in terms of reliability, with fewer recalls than other generations. The 2012 model is often touted as the best regarding overall quality and value.

That’s not to say if you choose to go up a generation or two, you’re not getting a good deal. As the generations of Silverado models went on, the full-size truck lost weight, with the fourth generation, from 2019 to the present, being almost 400 lbs lighter than previous generations. This makes the current generation exceptional in fuel economy, engine power, and overall technology. Get the latest and greatest Chevy has to offer and skip the heavy brand-new price tag when you opt for 2019 or 2020 models. The Silverado has been designed to tread the fine line between work and family, making it a great multifunctional workhorse ready when you need it the most.

Make Your Money Go Farther With a Great Used Chevy Vehicle

Chevy wants to help drivers get the most for their money, whether that’s a car, truck, or sedan. It’s no secret Chevy sells some of the most reliable and affordable used vehicles on the market, with some models like the Silverado increasing in value to give drivers excellent returns on their initial investment. Let’s face it, because of the microchip and supply chain shortages; it’s difficult to get your hands on a brand-new vehicle with all of the extras you’re looking for. It’s caused the demand for used cars to skyrocket in the last few years, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find the perfect reliable car at a great price.

Chevy is known for its budget-friendly vehicles that take drivers farther on less. If you’re looking to get the most for your dollar, Chevy delivers on every level. When you choose to buy a used Chevy vehicle, you get the peace of mind of knowing that your vehicle will be there for you for many years to come. When you’re ready to find that perfect used Chevy model, we invite you to come visit us here at Edwards Chevrolet Downtown. Our friendly and knowledgeable sales staff will walk you through our extensive selection of used Chevy models and help you find the ideal model that meets your unique driving needs. Stop by today and get behind the wheel of a great used Chevy!

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A green 2026 Chevy Trax parked outdoors.

Some Great Things You Don’t Expect From the Chevy Trax

The 2026 Chevy Trax is one of the most affordable vehicles on the market, making it a good fit for just about any budget. That low price might mean that you expect a Chevy Trax for sale near Bessemer to have underwhelming features and options. After all, with a price that low, something has to give, right? more While you won't find incredible luxury features on the Trax that you can get with a Cadillac, there's still a fantastic range of features and options that Chevy has packed into this lovely little SUV. The result is a vehicle accessible to most folks, with a daily drive you'll look forward to. Let's take a look at some of our favorite surprises with the Trax. The Standard Chevy Safety Assist Package There are a few things we love more about modern vehicles than how well they can help keep people safer on the road. Although nothing can replace careful driving, advanced driver-assistance features can enhance your reactions. The 2026 Trax comes with the Chevy Safety Assist package standard, which includes: Forward Collision Alert Automatic Emergency Braking Front Pedestrian Braking Following Distance Indicator Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning IntelliBeam auto high beams These six features work together beautifully to give you ample time to react to a potential collision and avoid or reduce the severity of a crash. Features like the IntelliBeam high beams even benefit others as you drive around Bessemer each day, keeping everyone safer. The fact that you get all of this in every Trax model at such a great price is hard to beat. The Available Driver Confidence Package If you're looking to take safety to the next level, then Chevy has you covered with great available options for the Trax. Since this SUV starts at such a low price, it's easy to add a few extra features that might be out of reach with a pricier vehicle. The Driver Confidence Package is a particular favorite of ours since it includes: Rear Park Assist Rear Cross Traffic Alert Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert Adaptive Cruise Control (on select models) These added features come together to take road safety to the next level, making it much easier to avoid collisions with people you might not see. The Rear Cross Traffic Alert is particularly helpful for getting in and out of parking spots safely, especially when visibility is limited. Terrific Available Tech Features Although the standard tech features on the 2026 Trax are great, the available upgrades really take things to the next level. Since this is such a budget-friendly model, it's no surprise that it offers a couple of interior display options. That said, the starting eight-inch infotainment screen is more than enough for many people and quite impressive for the price. Going with a higher trim, however, gets you several excellent available features that can elevate every moment you spend driving around Bessemer. The 11-inch HD color infotainment screen is a beauty that makes it easy to keep track of important information as you drive. This is joined by an available eight-inch color Driver Information Center that looks great. An available wireless charging pad is incredibly functional and convenient, letting you easily charge compatible devices without wrestling with cables. You get wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, which we love, as well as standard cruise control across every model. The available six-speaker sound system fills the interior of this subcompact SUV with rich audio. Simple and Refined Trim Levels In everything we like about the Trax, there's a common theme: simplicity. Chevy keeps things simple with the Trax, but that doesn't mean it's ever lacking in anything. For example, you have five different trim levels to choose from, with simple options and upgrades between them. Trax LS: The starting trim for the Trax, the LS comes with all standard features, including an eight-inch infotainment display and the Chevy Safety Assist package. It has LED headlights, 17-inch wheels, and plenty of extra options available. Trax 1RS: This sporty option for the Trax includes several excellent upgrades and enhancements to enjoy as you drive around Bessemer. It comes with 18-inch machined two-tone wheels that look fantastic and have a distinct RS aesthetic. This includes RS badging and a unique grille outside, black bowtie emblems, red interior accents, and more. Trax LT: If you're not interested in RS styling but want upgrades beyond the standard features, the LT is a great choice. This model features 17-inch two-tone wheels and a comfortable ride quality. Inside, you get large available displays, automatic climate controls, remote start, and much more. Trax 2RS: This is a direct upgrade to the 1RS, with 19-inch machined two-tone wheels for an even bolder stance. You get the distinct RS styling here with exterior badging, the unique grille, and more. The large interior displays and available Jet Black seating with Red accents make this model a fantastic overall choice. Trax ACTIV: Finally, we have the ACTIV, which is the next step up from the LS and LT. This model features 18-inch black wheels and a Black grille with titanium chrome accents, creating a gorgeous overall aesthetic. Inside, you get an eight-way power driver's seat, plenty of great tech features, and available jet black seating with Artemis accents for great looks. One of our favorite things about this trim lineup is how Chevy has priced these models. The LS starts at the lowest price, then the 1RS and LT are the same MSRP, and the 2RS and ACTIV are the same MSRP. So you can view it as three tiers of options, with distinct aesthetic and feature differences between the models at each tier. Great Performance and Fuel Efficiency Although performance might not be the first spec you consider when looking at a subcompact SUV like this, it's still important. You want something that feels great as you're driving around Bessemer each day, even if you're just heading to work. Chevy understands this well, and they've designed and engineered the Trax to be a small SUV that you'll look forward to driving. The 2026 Trax is powered by a 1.2L EcoTec turbocharged I-3 engine that provides 137 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. This is plenty of power for a small SUV like this, and the six-speed automatic transmission responds quickly as you drive. You get front-wheel drive with this model, which is perfect for keeping you in control with a light-weight SUV like this. Thanks to its small size and excellent engineering, the 2026 Trax delivers an EPA-estimated 28 MPG in the city, 32 MPG on the highway, and 30 MPG combined. This is perfect for getting to and from work, running errands when you need to, and enjoying yourself on the weekend. So you can get around Bessemer with fewer stops for gas. A Surprisingly Spacious Interior As a subcompact SUV, you might expect the Trax's interior to lack functional space. In reality, you get more than 25 cu.ft. of cargo space in the back of the Trax, as well as more than 54 cu.ft. of total cargo volume behind the front row. That gives you plenty of room inside for shopping bags, luggage, and everything else you need to bring with you each day. Everything Bessemer Drivers Expect As you can see, the 2026 Chevy Trax has a lot to offer, which is a big part of why it's such a popular SUV. A small, sporty size, a great starting price, and plenty of upgrade options make it easy to get everything you need in your car. So if you're ready to see more great features that you might not expect in a subcompact SUV, then we're here to show them to you.

Black dash in a 2026 Chevy Equinox for sale near Gardendale.

Tech Features Drivers Love in the Chevy Equinox

The Chevy Equinox appeals to many drivers. Commuters appreciate its car-like handling, comfortable interior, and efficient engine. Small families like that it’s safe and spacious, but not too cumbersome to handle. Even new drivers and first-time buyers love the Equinox, thanks to its affordable price tag and exceptional reliability. more It’s not only this that makes the Equinox such a crowd favorite. It’s also the fact that new models are loaded with some of the most desirable tech features on the market. If you’re seeking out a Chevy Equinox for sale near Gardendale, Edwards Chevrolet Downtown has a spectacular selection of Equinox models just waiting to wow you. We love to watch our customers drive away in vehicles that have all the features they demand. This is especially the case when it comes to tech. Here are some of the tech features today’s drivers just can’t get enough of in the 2026 Equinox. Advanced Displays The 2026 Equinox shows off a particularly innovative interior. This is evident from the moment you step inside its quiet, comfortable confines. From connectivity and entertainment features to important ride data, you can be sure to enjoy all of it via these intelligently designed displays. Infotainment Touchscreen Every 2026 Equinox trim has an 11.3-inch diagonal touchscreen display that lets you access your coveted tech. Whether you’re seeking out expert navigation or you just want to play your favorite tunes, this display is the gateway to all of this. It is angled slightly toward the driver for maximum viewing. Digital Gauge Display In addition to the prominent infotainment display that occupies a large portion of the dashboard, the 2026 Equinox also features an 11-inch digital gauge display. This screen, located behind the steering wheel, displays important ride details, such as speed, safety alerts, and other pertinent driving information. This display helps you stay in tune with all aspects of your ride, making your time on board a safer and more enjoyable experience. Smart Software The 11.3-inch infotainment display runs one of the most advanced software interfaces in the industry—Google built-in. This system is a game-changer for Chevy vehicles, allowing drivers to access everything they could ever want on the way to all their Gardendale destinations. Access Google Play and download all the apps you need to stay focused and entertained during your ride. Google Maps makes it easy to navigate to unfamiliar places with extreme confidence. Google Assistant makes your drive more convenient, letting you use your voice to control various aspects of your media system and more. With this Google-based software system, you’ll have the ability to enjoy everything you need right at your fingertips or just with the sound of your voice. This doesn’t just make your ride more satisfying; it also makes it safer. This way, you won’t have to fumble with clunky controls or try to locate a feature you need on a complicated touchscreen. Everything is right where it should be, waiting to be of service. Wireless Connectivity Having wireless tech on board your vehicle certainly makes your journey better. This is especially true when you don’t want your cabin cluttered with unsightly wires but still want access to all your must-have tech. Fortunately, the 2026 Equinox makes it easy for Gardendale drivers to stay connected to their day from the highway—without wires taking up space inside their cabin. With wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, you’ll get to enjoy the features of your smartphone without having to plug it in. Access contacts, messages, apps, and entertainment features seamlessly through your touchscreen, so your phone can remain safely tucked away in your bag. You can also enjoy wireless charging, allowing you to place your phone on the charger built into your Equinox without having to locate a charging cord while you’re busy maneuvering through rush hour traffic. The Equinox is filled with an abundance of tech aids to help make your travels better and more connected in every way. You will also get to take advantage of a Wi-Fi hotspot through the Equinox’s Google-based software system, allowing you to remain connected to the goings-on of your day from the highway. Safety & Assistance Tech Every Gardendale driver should prioritize safety, and the 2026 Equinox makes this easier with all the safety and assistance aids on board. With over 15 standard safety and assistance features, your drive will be more secure, no matter what awaits you on your daily commute to the office. Standard Safety Features As we mentioned above, the Equinox has a host of standard safety aids to help make your time on the road safer for all. Through standard Chevy Safety Assist, you’ll have access to everything from lane-keeping assistance and collision alerts to IntelliBeam headlamps and automatic braking features watching out for you at every turn. The 2026 Equinox also has other standard features to take advantage of, including Rear Park Assist to help you park like a pro and Rear Cross Traffic Braking to help you avoid an obstacle behind you while you’re backing up. You’ll get to enjoy an HD Rear Vision Camera as well, which provides you with exceptionally clear views of the areas behind your vehicle. Available Safety Features Turn your rearview mirror into a dazzling display through the available Rear Camera Mirror or stay abreast of who is walking behind you with Rear Pedestrian Alert. Available HD Surround Vision provides a bird’s-eye view of the area around your vehicle, perfect for busy parking lots, packed city streets, or unfamiliar locations. OnStar Everyone wants to feel like they have someone watching their back on the road, and with OnStar, this is a reality. From emergency response services to roadside assistance, you can count on OnStar to help you through difficult times while you’re traveling. Let’s face it, you never know what’s going to happen on the open road, and having OnStar in your vehicle allows you to be ready for anything. A Tech-Savvy Vehicle for Tech-Savvy Drivers When it comes to taking on your Gardendale commutes, errands, road trips, and school runs, the 2026 Equinox proves that it’s able to offer the tech features you require. It’s armed with show-stopping displays to keep you connected and entertained during the ride. It also shows off excellent software capabilities built into Google. Plus, with a slew of safety features, you can remain secure and confident as you travel in this Chevy superstar. Every driver wants to enjoy their ride, and for many, that means access to cutting-edge tech on board their vehicles. Whether you have always wanted a large, immersive touchscreen in your car or you just want to access the features on your phone without having to dig it out of your work bag, the Equinox has it all to appeal to every driver imaginable. Finding Your Perfect Equinox So, if you’re ready to make your time on the road better and more technologically advanced, the Equinox deserves a closer inspection. Not only is it impeccably innovative, but it’s also efficient, easy to drive, cozy inside, and ultimately affordable. It’s a winner for a wide range of drivers and worth adding to your driveway if you demand more from your dedicated travel companion.

Green 2026 Chevy Equinox parked on grass near a pond

How the Chevy Equinox Balances Fuel Efficiency and Performance

Suburban life is about balance, and so should the vehicle you drive. First-time car buyers, young families, new professionals, and others consider a Chevy Equinox for sale near Gardendale because it offers the harmony they need. Its efficiency makes the Equinox a practical commuter vehicle, yet it also delivers the performance and features you need to handle the everyday and the extraordinary. You might think such an equilibrium is impossible in an affordable compact SUV, but the Equinox manages this, making it the SUV for everything from midweek errands to a weekend drive down Interstate 65. Here’s a look at how the fourth-generation Chevy Equinox is the vehicle that you demand. A Small but Dynamic Engine A vehicle’s efficiency and performance begin with how much fuel it burns and what it does with that. The Chevy Equinox features a 1.5L turbocharged I-4 engine that's more powerful than you think. It produces 175 hp and up to 203 lb-ft of torque, which easily gets you around Gardendale and beyond. Modern turbocharging provides bursts of power on command while using less fuel than a traditional power plant. The result is an EPA-estimated 27 MPG combined and 29 MPG on the highway, letting you go 400 miles or more on a full tank. Another big contributor is the standard continuously variable transmission, which puts you in the optimal gear ratio for every situation, whether that’s cruising speed on Highway 31 or accelerating out of your driveway. Lest we forget, the Equinox is E15 flex fuel capable, giving you more options when filling up. Available All-Wheel Drive That Boosts Traction By default, the Chevrolet Equinox has front-wheel drive, which is excellent for handling and grip in everyday situations. If you drive a lot in the rain or live on one of Gardendale’s tight backroads, though, you might want a little more confidence. The all-wheel drive option provides that with an intelligent system that monitors the wheels in real time and automatically adjusts power distribution. If any wheels start to slip, AWD steps in to keep your tires attached to the pavement. AWD models also have 19 more lb-ft of torque than FWD Equinox models and use an eight-speed automatic transmission. Yet they’re rated for the same 29 MPG on the highway as the FWD, so you’re not losing anything on your long trips. The AWD Equinox also has a slightly larger fuel tank, giving you the range you need. Technology Elevates the Drive Nowadays, when someone mentions vehicle technology, most people think of infotainment and safety. Those are certainly important, but with the Equinox, technology gives Gardendale drivers more of the high efficiency and practical performance they’re looking for. It begins with the drive mode selector, which, via the engine control unit, alters the shock rebound rate, power distribution, and other parameters. With the turn of a knob, you can switch to the following modes: Normal: Provides the best mix of comfort, everyday handling, and fuel efficiency. AWD: Activates this mode for low-grip terrain. Snow/Ice: Changes the pedal response so you can accelerate with less wheel spin on slippery surfaces. Off-Road: Provides superior driving dynamics on dirt, grass, and gravel. That’s not all for performance-minded technology. Automatic stop/start helps conserve fuel when you’re stuck at a traffic light, and there is automatic vehicle hold for control on hills. Driver assistance also enhances performance with features such as a 360-degree camera system, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot steering assistance. A Finely Tuned Suspension Performance isn’t just about the powertrain or the ECU. Your SUV needs to be comfortable and easy to drive, whether you’re headed to the Magic City or taking a scenic drive down Mount Olive Road. The Chevy Equinox is designed for superior ride and handling quality at every turn. When you drive the Equinox, you’re in command of a MacPherson strut front suspension and a four-link rear suspension that connects you to the road, smoothing out bumps, potholes, and other hazards. The huge 16-inch disc brakes deliver amazing stopping power in rush-hour traffic, and the eight inches of ground clearance help you avoid obstacles without sacrificing stability. Progressive speed-dependent steering improves responsiveness at high speeds. For good measure, the chassis supports a 1,500-pound towing capacity for your ATV, dirt bike, or fishing boat using the available receiver hitch. It’s one more way that Gardendale residents can draw the performance they need when heading to Black Creek Park or Newfound Creek. Choose the Wheels and Tires That Suit You The tires are what touch the ground, and they go a long way toward determining how powerful and efficient your SUV is. Most Equinox models use all-season tires that are hard enough to reduce rolling resistance and add longevity, but soft enough to grab the pavement when turning. The Chevy Equinox ACTIV substitutes all-terrain tires for more grip when you head to the Ridge Outdoor Resort. There are many lightweight aluminum wheel options to bolt those tires to, so everyone in Gardendale will have the characteristics they want. The Equinox LT and ACTIV come with 17-inch wheels that offer faster acceleration, reduced vibration, and improved ride comfort. The 19-inch wheels on the Equinox RS offer better handling, lower rolling resistance, and shorter stopping distances. You can add 19-inch wheels to the LT or even upgrade the RS to 20-inch wheels for the sportiest ride. A Body That Glides Through the Air We may not be talking about NASCAR here, but aerodynamics and body shape still matter. The Chevy Equinox’s curvy exterior, smartly chosen body lines, and windshield angle are about more than looks. They reduce drag so that you don’t have to press the gas as hard to reach and maintain speed on the highway or Route 79. It also better handles the occasional Gardendale wind gusts, resulting in less buffeting and a more stable ride. Several other features maximize fuel economy and the cohesive feeling your vehicle should have. Active front grille shutters close to force air over the hood, but open when the engine needs airflow for cooling. Even the roof rails and wheel locks are carefully designed with performance in mind. You still get all the modern performance features and amenities you deserve, including all-LED lighting, heated power side mirrors, and available rain-sensing wipers. Test Drive the Equinox at Edwards Chevrolet Downtown You don’t have to choose between performance and efficiency when you’re at the wheel of the Chevy Equinox. It’s the ideal vehicle for errands on busy Saturday mornings, fewer stops on road trips, or dropping the kids off at Gardendale Elementary School. GM’s precise engineering delivers the balance you’re looking for. When you add the excellent infotainment, conveniences, legroom, and driver safety, the Equinox is a stout vehicle for everyday use and more. Visit Edwards Chevrolet Downtown to test drive the Chevy Equinox and experience its remarkable design. We have served the Gardendale area for over a century, and we treat every visitor like they’re part of the family. Count on our team to get you into a high-quality Chevy Equinox at a competitive price with no-hassle financing, fair trade-in value, and certified service using genuine parts.