Best Chevrolet Models and Years: Buy Used Chevy in Indiana
Table of Contents
- What are the best Chevrolet models and years?
- 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500: Best used Chevy truck
- Is a used Chevrolet Silverado expensive to maintain?
- 2019-2021 Chevrolet Equinox: Best compact Chevy SUV
- 2021–2023 Chevrolet Traverse: Best used Chevy SUV for families
- 2017–2020 Chevrolet Tahoe: Best used Chevy for towing
- 2017–2022 Chevrolet Colorado: Best midsize Chevy truck
- 2016–2020 Chevrolet Malibu: Best Chevy sedan
- 2020–2022 Chevrolet Trax: Most affordable used Chevy crossover
- 2020–2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV: Best electric Chevy model
- What is the most reliable used Chevrolet model?
- Find your used Chevrolet at Indy Auto Man dealership
Chevrolet offers a used vehicle for almost every type of driver. The Silverado is a practical workhorse, the Equinox is a versatile compact SUV, and the Traverse provides family-friendly three-row seating.
At Indy Auto Man, used Chevy dealer in Indiana, buyers can also choose from the spacious Tahoe, capable Colorado, comfortable Malibu, affordable Trax, and electric Bolt EV.
What are the best Chevrolet models and years?
Below are some of the best Chevrolet models and years to buy used in Indiana:
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500 - 2014–2018
- Chevrolet Equinox - 2019–2021
- Chevrolet Traverse - 2021–2023
- Chevrolet Tahoe - 2017–2020
- Chevrolet Colorado - 2017–2022
- Chevrolet Malibu - 2016–2020
- Chevrolet Trax - 2020–2022
- Chevrolet Bolt EV - 2020–2023
Below, Indy Auto Man technicians will provide more details about each model, highlighting its pros and cons.
2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500: Best used Chevy truck
The third-generation Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a solid choice if you need a full-size pickup for towing, hauling, or everyday driving. Its body-on-frame construction, strong engines, and wide range of cab and bed configurations make it one of the most versatile used Chevrolet trucks available.
Compare Chevy Silverado vs. Ford F-150 vs. GMC Sierra
For Indiana drivers, four-wheel drive is especially useful during snow and icy weather. However, it is important to remember that four-wheel drive improves traction when accelerating but does not shorten braking distances. Good tires remain essential.
Engines and equipment
The Silverado was offered with a 4.3-liter V6, a 5.3-liter V8, and a 6.2-liter V8. The 5.3-liter V8 is usually the most practical option because it provides strong performance without the added fuel costs of the larger engine.
Depending on the trim, Silverado’s available equipment includes a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth, a rearview camera, heated seats, leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, remote start, and a trailer-brake controller.
What to check when purchasing pre-owned Silverado
Inspect the transmission, suspension, oil leaks, transfer case, front differential, and driveshaft. Also look for evidence of the truck being heavily towed or commercial use.
Certain 2014-2018 Silverado 1500 models with four-wheel drive and the 5.3-liter engine were subject to a safety recall related to unintended braking after a wheel-speed-sensor failure. Check the VIN to confirm that all recall work has been completed.
Overall, the Silverado is one of the best Chevrolet models to buy used for work and recreation in Indiana.
Its main disadvantages are fuel consumption, a large turning radius, and potentially expensive four-wheel-drive repairs.
Is a used Chevrolet Silverado expensive to maintain?
A Silverado truck can be reasonably dependable, but maintenance costs are generally higher than those of a Malibu or Equinox.
Tires, brakes, suspension components, four-wheel-drive parts, and V8-related repairs can be expensive. A truck that was used for towing or commercial work may require more attention than a lightly used personal vehicle.
2019-2021 Chevrolet Equinox: Best compact Chevy SUV
The third-generation Chevrolet Equinox is a practical compact SUV for Indianapolis commuters and small families. It is easy to park, provides a comfortable driving position, and offers more cargo flexibility than a sedan without the size of a three-row SUV.
Engine and features
Most used Equinox vehicles have a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It provides adequate performance for commuting. Chevrolet Equinox SUV is manufactured with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
Available features include automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated front seats, a power liftgate, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic emergency braking.
- All-wheel drive can be helpful on snowy residential streets and unplowed driveways. Nevertheless, buyers should inspect the power-transfer unit for fluid leaks.
- GM technical documentation identifies possible leaks around the power-transfer-unit actuator and input-shaft seal on certain Equinox applications.
The 2019–2021 Equinox offers a good balance of price, comfort, and practicality.
Its main limitation is modest engine performance, especially when the vehicle is fully loaded.
2021–2023 Chevrolet Traverse: Best used Chevy SUV for families
The Chevrolet Traverse is a strong choice for families who need three rows of seats but do not want a full-size Tahoe. It offers a spacious cabin, a comfortable ride, and useful cargo space for luggage, groceries, and sports equipment.
V6 power and interior space
The Traverse uses a 3.6-liter V6 producing approximately 310 horsepower and paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Chevrolet Traverse engine provides confident acceleration when carrying passengers or traveling on the highway.
Available equipment includes tri-zone climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated front seats, a power liftgate, leather upholstery, and a panoramic sunroof. SomeTraverse versions also include a towing package and all-wheel drive.
Buying considerations
During a test drive of a pre-owned Chevrolet Traverse, pay attention to harsh shifting, delayed gear engagement, vibration, or unusual drivetrain noises. Inspect the cooling system, suspension, brakes, and tires. A three-row SUV may experience considerable wear if it has been used for frequent family trips or towing.
The 2021–2023 Traverse is comfortable and practical, but it is larger and less fuel-efficient than the Equinox.
It is best for buyers who genuinely need additional passenger space.
2017–2020 Chevrolet Tahoe: Best used Chevy for towing
The Chevrolet Tahoe is a traditional full-size SUV with a strong frame, powerful V8 engines, and genuine towing capability. It is suitable for large families, boat owners, and drivers who regularly transport trailers or recreational equipment.
V8 performance and features
Most used Tahoes are equipped with a 5.3-liter V8 and a six-speed automatic transmission. Some versions have a 6.2-liter V8, which offers stronger acceleration but costs more to fuel and maintain.
The Chevrolet Tahoe features include three-row seating, tri-zone climate control, a touchscreen audio system, heated and ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, navigation, remote start, and a trailer brake controller.
Rust and maintenance inspection
A used Tahoe should be inspected for worn suspension parts, leaking shocks, brake wear, transmission problems, and signs of extensive towing. This Chevrolet SUV frame and body seams require special attention in Indiana, where road salt can cause serious corrosion.
The Tahoe 2017-2020 is a capable and comfortable used SUV, but it has a large turning radius and considerable fuel consumption. It makes the most sense when you need its size and towing power.
2017–2022 Chevrolet Colorado: Best midsize Chevy truck
The second-generation Chevrolet Colorado truck is a useful middle ground between a compact SUV and a full-size pickup. It is easier to park than a Silverado and still provides an open bed for tools, bicycles, landscaping materials, and recreational equipment.
Engine choices and features
The Colorado truck produced in 2017-2020 is among the most reliable models in our list. It is manufactured with a four-cylinder engine, a 3.6-liter V6, and a 2.8-liter diesel. The V6 is the most common choice and provides strong everyday performance. The Colorado diesel produces impressive torque but may cost more to maintain because of its emissions equipment.
Chevrolet Colorado pickup features include a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth, cruise control, heated seats, dual-zone climate control, remote start, leather upholstery, and an integrated trailer-brake controller.
What to inspect
Check the Chevrolet Colorado’s transmission for shudder or delayed shifting. Inspect the suspension, frame, bed mounting points, trailer hitch, and underbody for corrosion or impact damage. Colorado trucks that run on diesel require detailed service records.
The Colorado is a good used pickup for Indiana drivers who want truck capability without the size of a Chevy Silverado.
The minor drawback of the Chevrolet Colorado is the fact that its rear seat is relatively limited for adult passengers.
2016–2020 Chevrolet Malibu: Best Chevy sedan
The Chevrolet Malibu is a comfortable and affordable used sedan for commuters who spend most of their time on paved Indiana roads. It offers a smooth ride, a quiet cabin, and a spacious trunk.
Comfort and powertrains of Chevy Malibu
The 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is the most common gasoline option for the Chevrolet Malibu. It provides reasonable performance and can be economical when properly maintained. The Malibu Hybrid is also worth considering, though you should carefully check the battery, hybrid system, and service history.
Depending on the trim, the Chevrolet Malibu features may include automatic climate control, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, leather upholstery, blind-spot monitoring system, and a sunroof.
Used Malibu inspection
When purchasing a used Malibu sedan, check the transmission for rough engagement and inspect the engine for oil leaks. Test the infotainment system, climate controls, power windows, heated seats, and driver-assistance features.
The Chevrolet Malibu is an excellent choice for buyers who are looking for a reliable and comfortable sedan.
Its main disadvantage in Indiana is that it does not offer the same winter traction as an AWD crossover.
2020–2022 Chevrolet Trax: Most affordable used Chevy crossover
The Chevrolet Trax is a compact crossover with a low purchase price, easy maneuverability, and a raised seating position. Its compact size is convenient in city traffic and crowded Indianapolis parking lots.
The Trax crossover uses a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Chevrolet Trax is not especially powerful, but it is adequate for daily commuting. All-wheel drive is available on some vehicles.
The Chevrolet Trax features include a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated front seats, a rearview camera, remote start, and a power sunroof.
Inspect the Trax crossover turbocharger plumbing, cooling system, oil leaks, brakes, front suspension, and transmission. On pre-owned Chevrolet Trax AWD models, listen for noises or vibration from the rear driveline.
The Trax is affordable and easy to drive, but rear-seat and cargo space are limited compared with the Equinox and Traverse.
2020–2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV: Best electric Chevy model
The Chevrolet Bolt electric vehicle is an appealing choice for drivers who can charge at home. It offers instant acceleration, a quiet cabin, low routine maintenance requirements, and enough range for many daily commutes.
The Chevrolet Bolt EV compact exterior makes it easy to maneuver, while the tall roof provides useful interior space. The Bolt features may include a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated seats, heated steering wheel, regenerative braking, and advanced driver-assistance systems.
Battery recall check
Every used Bolt requires a thorough battery-recall check. NHTSA reported a safety recall involving certain 2020–2022 Bolt EV models because high-voltage batteries could pose a fire risk when charged fully or nearly fully. Confirm the repair status before buying.
Cold Indiana weather can reduce real-world driving range, so the Bolt is best for Indiana drivers with predictable routes and dependable charging access.
What is the most reliable used Chevrolet model?
In many cases, service records, rust condition, accident history, and the quality of the pre-purchase inspection matter more than choosing one particular model year of Chevrolet.
The Silverado 1500, Malibu, Equinox, Colorado, and Tahoe can all be good used choices when the model year, maintenance history, and overall condition are carefully evaluated.
Find your used Chevrolet at Indy Auto Man dealership
Whether you want a Silverado for work, an Equinox for commuting, a Traverse for your family trips, or a Bolt EV for efficient daily driving, you will find your perfect match at Indy Auto Man.
Visit our car lots in Indianapolis and Westfield to explore our available used Chevrolet inventory. Contact our team today, schedule a test drive, and find the Chevy that fits your budget, lifestyle, and Indiana driving needs.
$372/mo
