Some used cars are surprisingly more expensive than their new counterparts, but pre-owned sales boomed in 2022. SUVs, crossovers, and trucks are the most popular vehicles on the used market. However, sedans like the Honda Civic and Toyota Camry remain hot sellers. And while Ford still makes the best-selling truck, Chevrolet isn’t far behind. Two used Chevy models — the Silverado and Equinox — shot up in popularity last year.

The 2 Chevy models that used car shoppers love

Of the 9.8 million used cars sold last year, the Chevy Silverado 1500 made up 2.8%. That’s an increase of 0.2% over 2021, about 19,600 more trucks, iSeeCars reports. 

Last year, the Chevy Silverado 1500 was also the best-selling vehicle in North Carolina, Iowa, and Kentucky. It outsold even the Ford F-150 in certain metro areas, including Birmingham, Alabama, and Austin, Texas.

Used Chevy Equinox sales made up 2.2% of total used SUV sales, a 0.4% increase over 2021. It was also the fourth best-selling vehicle overall, climbing from its 7th-place rank the previous year. The Equinox was particularly popular in Michigan last year, accounting for over 8% of used car sales. 

Is the Chevy Silverado 1500 a good truck?

The 2022 Chevy Silverado offers excellent powertrain choices, starting with a 310-hp turbo-four engine. If gas mileage is a priority, you can option this truck with a 277-hp turbodiesel earning 23/31 mpg city/highway. With package upgrades, the 420-hp V8 grants the Silverado 1500 its highest towing capacity of 13,300 pounds.

The 355-hp V8 is a good middle ground, adding more horsepower and a higher payload capacity than the larger V8. It allows the Chevy Silverado to carry up to 2,120 pounds. But the base V6 brings the highest payload capacity at 2,270 pounds.

In addition, the Silverado 1500 offers three bed lengths, with the longest measuring 8 feet 2 inches. You can get this bed only with the Regular Cab, which seats three. Both the Crew Cab and Double Cab carry up to six riders.

All trims have standard vinyl seats inside, but leather is available in pricier models. The higher-specced Silverado interiors also feature eye-catching accents like faux leather for the dashboard. Even the base-model Work Truck has standard smartphone integration and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). 

What makes the Chevy Equinox attractive as a used car?

Newer used Chevy Equinox models pack a turbo-four making 170 to 175 hp, depending on the year. Equinox SUVs produced before the 2022 model year also might have a 252-hp turbo-four or a turbodiesel generating 137 hp. The latter predictably doesn’t provide the best acceleration, but it earns an EPA-estimated 28/39 mpg city/highway. The remaining engine still offers competitive gas mileage, rated for 26/31 mpg with front-wheel drive.

Besides the narrow middle seat in the second row, this compact crossover provides ample room for adult riders. And with the rear seats folded down, the Equinox boasts almost 64 cubic feet of cargo space.

The base-model LS will likely satisfy many used car buyers. It has multiple ADAS features, and Chevrolet introduced wireless smartphone integration for the 2022 model year. However, Consumer Reports says the 2019 and 2017 models are the most reliable. 

Additionally, J.D. Power reports that the Silverado 1500 is the most dependable pickup truck you can buy. Excellent reliability, abundant features, and numerous powertrain options are a few secrets to these Chevy models’ growing popularity.