Best Used Chevrolet Model to Buy [2021 Guide]

Last Updated on July 23, 2021 by Jason Mason

Chevrolet is without a doubt one of the most important automakers in the U.S. Regardless if you are looking for a sedan, a sport utility vehicle, a sports car, or a reliable truck, Chevrolet has something to offer you. Moreover, as part of GM, Chevrolet count with many cutting-edge features and safety technologies unique to the brand that ensures not only a pleasant but a safer ride.

With so many Chevrolet units available, your chances of finding a good deal when buying a second-hand Chevrolet in 2021 are certainly better than with other brands. In that regard, the objective of this guide is to assist you in finding the perfect car according to your particular needs.

Criteria used in this guide

We only included vehicles 2005 onwards as we consider it a reasonable limit to guarantee a problem-free Chevy. For each vehicle selected:

• We conducted extensive research on NHTSA Ratings to find Chevrolet models with the lowest incidence of issues. 
• We corroborated the quality and satisfaction ratings of these vehicles on reputable websites such as Kelley Blue Book, NADA Guides, and Edmunds to rule out models with low levels of satisfaction and/or quality.

To ensure full transparency in the results (and avoid biasing our picks using our personal experience), we only used the online resources mentioned above.

Best Value – 2015 Chevrolet Malibu LT

Estimated Price Range $7,375 – $11,550 (2015)

Choosing the Best Value Chevrolet vehicle to buy in 2021 was not an easy task. The 2015 Chevy Malibu finally won thanks to its excellent balance between fuel economy, responsiveness, technology, and value. In fact, you will not have issues finding a 2015 Malibu LT in good condition under $10k.

If you are on a budget, you can even go for the LS trim which can be easily found under $7,000. Since the 2015 model is highly reliable, you can use the Malibu as your daily driver without regrets. It delivers adequate performance for a midsize sedan, has an excellent fuel mileage, and comes packed with all amenities you might need in your way to work.

Not convinced with the style of the Chevrolet Malibu LT 2015? Another great option is the 2015 Chevy Cruze LT, almost as reliable as the Malibu and has a similar price.

Most Reliable – 2016 Equinox LTZ AWD

Estimated Price Range $12,700 – $17,175 (2016)

Looking for a reliable compact SUV for daily usage? Then a 2016 Chevrolet Equinox LTZ is the solution. You can purchase a low mileage Equinox LTZ for approximately $12k – $13k or pay a bit more for a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) model if you want extra peace of mind about its condition.

Conversely, if you are on a budget, you can also find many Equinox LS 2016 around $10,000. This combination of value and reliability make the 2016 Equinox a great vehicle for first-time drivers and college students. Equinox’s all-wheel-drive as well as the Driver Confidence Packages I & II (standard on the LTZ trim) will certainly come in handy during parking, changing lanes in the highway, or driving on slippery roads if that is the case.

All in all, the 2016 Chevy Equinox LTZ can be considered an “all-rounder” SUV, good for personal use,  taking the children to school, or learning to drive.

Best Performance – 2017 Chevrolet Camaro SS V8

Estimated Price Range $20,650 – $25,650 (2017)

Tired of the monotony of sedans and SUVs? In that case, the breathtaking performance of the 2017 Chevrolet Camaro SS (0-60 mph in just 4 seconds) will definitely spice up your ride. For a reasonable price (around $25,000) you can get a Camaro SS Coupe 2017 and drive one of the most powerful American Muscle Cars available today.

The massive 6.2-liter engine along with the 7-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission is the same powertrain used in the Corvette, so you are basically enjoying a Corvette-like driving experience. If you want even more power  (and are willing to pay for it), you can choose the 650-hp Camaro ZL1. Even opting for a 2017 Corvette is a solid choice, however, we believe the Camaro SS offers an unmatched performance-value ratio.

Whether you use it on weekends or as your main commuter car, the 2017 Chevy Camaro SS will undoubtedly make you smile again while driving, guaranteed.

Overall Winner – 2017 Silverado 1500 LT Crew Cab 2WD

Estimated Price Range $22,275 – $28,125 (2017)

Choosing the Best Overall Winner is subjective. However, who can argue that the 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT Crew Cab 2WD is not the best vehicle on this list? First off, it is big enough to haul six passengers plus a lot of cargo. Secondly, it offers a modern interior with plenty of storage bins, cupholders, and USB ports along with an excellent infotainment system to delight all passengers. Meaning the 2017 Chevy Silverado excels both as family and workhorse vehicle.

While it is true that its V6 engine does not provide the exceptional driving experience of the optional 5.3-liter V8 engine, it is also true that it delivers more than enough power to accomplish common tasks without a sweat. Add the Silverado’s above-average resale value and Chevy’s reliability and you have one of the best used Chevrolet vehicles you can purchase in 2021.