The Best Used Chevys for Your Teen Driver

December 19, 2022 · 6 min read

There are many reasons to choose a used vehicle, including a desire to save money and to skip a lot of initial depreciation while getting the best value for a car. We also have many people come to us looking for a used Chevy for their teen drivers since a new model isn’t necessary for someone just beginning to drive. If you’ve been looking for a Mountain Brook used Chevy dealer to find a vehicle for your teen driver, we suggest you expand your search and visit us at Edwards Chevrolet Downtown. We understand the needs of our customers from throughout the Birmingham area, including Mountain Brook.

Although your teen driver might have some very specific needs you want in a vehicle, like enough space inside for equipment or supplies for their after-school activities, certain things are vital for any teen’s car. First and foremost, you want to make sure you choose a vehicle that will help keep your new driver safe on the road as they get more experience and develop into a safe driver with good habits. We know how stressful it can be having your kids gain their freedom and hit the road on their own for the first time. That’s why we’re here to help you choose a vehicle that will protect them and get them home safe every day.

General Considerations

Before we look at any specific models, there are a few general things we wanted to go over that you should remember when shopping for a vehicle for a teen driver. One of the key things to focus on is the full suite of safety features that any vehicle, Chevy or otherwise, comes with. Basic features include multiple airbags, good mirrors and overall visibility, and any advanced technology it might come with. A reverse camera system has only been mandatory since 2018, though you’ll often find them in vehicles from a year or so before that. Other systems like cross-traffic alerts, automatic braking, and lane warnings aren’t mandatory, but you’ll find them in many models, especially on higher trims.

One of the best things about the Chevy brand is the Teen Driver safety system that you’ll find on most models from the last few years. This system does numerous things, including letting you set a limit on audio volume, set a speed limit of 85 mph, and set a speed that will trigger an audio and visual warning if your teen exceeds it. You tie all of these features to a specific key fob so that you can drive the vehicle without restrictions, and it’s designed to help teach good habits to new drivers. There’s even an in-vehicle report card that you can check to see what safety alerts have been triggered and other details to determine where your teen needs some coaching and reinforcement to be a safer driver.

Beyond any specific features or technology, it’s important to consider the basic aspects of a vehicle to ensure it’s a good fit for your teen driver. You always want to choose a vehicle that has been well maintained so that the tires, brakes, and engine are all reliable and in great shape. In addition, avoid a large vehicle like a full-size SUVs; smaller rides are easier to maneuver and safer for a new driver. Plus, larger vehicles tend to attract more passengers, which increases distractions and dangers when a new driver is behind the wheel; if your teen has a restricted license, they’re only allowed to have one non-family passenger with them. Let’s now move on to some Chevy vehicles that we think are excellent entry-level vehicles for those just beginning to drive on their own.

The Chevy Malibu

The Malibu is a midsize sedan, making it large enough to help protect your teen driver without becoming so large that it’s challenging to drive safely. We suggest a model no later than 2016 when the latest generation begins and features like the available Teen Driver safety system are introduced. Most advanced safety technology on the Malibu has been available but not standard, so look for higher trims like the LT and Premier to find a used Malibu with the best overall features to keep your teen safe. There was a refresh on the Malibu for the 2019 model year, with a sleek new look, but nothing changed in terms of safety.

Silver 2021 Chevy Bolt EV is shown charging outside of a modern house

The Chevy Bolt EV

If you’d like to get your teen driver an all-electric model to enjoy, then the Chevy Bolt EV is a fantastic choice. This hatchback is perfect for getting to school, loading up with instruments or supplies they need, and everything else a teenager could want. It’s only been around since the 2017 model year and has had Chevy’s Teen Driver system standard in every model. A refresh and update for the 2022 model year made the Chevy Safety Assist package standard, including a forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, and more. If you’re concerned about issues that some Bolt EV models had with batteries, be sure the recall has been carried out and the battery replaced on any used model you’re interested in.

The Chevy Trailblazer

One of the newest additions to Chevy’s lineup, the Trailblazer has already made a lot of fans and is a fantastic option when shopping for a used model. This subcompact crossover is designed to be a safe ride and give your teen driver enough room inside without too much passenger seating. First introduced for the 2021 model year, the Trailblazer comes with Chevy Safety Assist standard, including automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, and lane keep assist with a lane departure warning. Chevy’s Teen Driver system has also been standard since it was first released, making any used model you find a good choice.

The Chevy Equinox

If you want something larger for your young driver, then the Equinox is a fantastic option; this compact SUV is bigger than the Trailblazer without being too large. The current generation for the Equinox kicked off with the 2018 model year, so that’s about as far back as we’d go to ensure you get the best quality and latest features. Advanced safety features like front pedestrian braking and adaptive cruise control became available starting with the 2019 model, but you’ll need to find a Premier trim for these options. We suggest looking for a 2020 or later model as many advanced features, including automatic emergency braking with front pedestrian braking, lane keep assist, and more, became standard on every trim that year.

Red 2020 Chevy Blazer RS driving to a Mountain Brook used Chevy dealer

The Chevy Blazer

As a midsize, two-row crossover model, the Blazer is the largest SUV from Chevy that we’d recommend for a teen driver, and it’s a bit bigger than the Equinox. This has only been around since the 2019 model year, so you can find the latest safety features on most models, though you’ll need to look for a high-end trim like the Premier if you want the best technology to protect your young driver. For the 2021 model year, many advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking became standard on all but the lowest trim; this 1LT trim was eliminated for the 2022 model year, making these features standard on all Blazer models.

You can see that Chevy has a lot to offer when it comes to finding a great used vehicle for a teen driver. As long as you look for the best safety features possible and shop at a dealership with high-quality models, you can rest easy knowing your new driver is safe on the road. Now, all you have to do is pick the right one with everything your kid needs to succeed, and at Edwards Chevrolet Downtown, we have the vehicles you’re looking for to ensure your teen begins their driving journey with the best tools to keep them safe on the road.

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A green 2026 Chevy Trax parked outdoors.

May 18, 2026

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.

Apr 13, 2026

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

Apr 06, 2026

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.