2011 Chevrolet Equinox: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox is E85 flex-fuel capability for the available 3.0-liter V6. Otherwise, this is a light-update year with a few trim-level equipment upgrades rather than a redesign or broad refresh.
About the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox
2nd generation Equinox (2010-2017), second model year after the redesign; no major refresh.
Chevrolet positions the 2011 Equinox as a compact crossover that feels bigger and quieter inside than its footprint suggests. The model’s core appeal is family-friendly comfort: a roomy back seat, a sliding and reclining rear bench, lots of storage, and a calm cabin. Against rivals like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, Chevrolet leans harder on long-distance comfort, highway fuel economy, and a more upscale interior feel than on sporty handling or off-road image.
For 2011, LS is the straightforward Equinox, while LT adds more everyday comfort and phone and music connectivity. LTZ is the upscale version, with leather-appointed heated front seats, premium audio, a power liftgate, parking assistance, and a rearview camera. Every trim retains the sliding and reclining rear seat that helps make the cabin more flexible.
What changed, by category
2011 Chevrolet Equinox specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / V6, Flex Fuel, 3.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / V6, Flex Fuel, 3.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas / Flexible Fuel |
| MPG City | 22 mpg | 17–22 mpg | 17–22 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 32 mpg | 24–32 mpg | 24–32 mpg |
| Horsepower | 182 hp | 182–264 hp | 182–264 hp |
| Torque | 172 lb-ft | 172–222 lb-ft | 172–222 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1500 lb | 3500 lb | 3500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 63.7 cu-ft | 63.7 cu-ft | 63.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 39.9 in | 39.9 in | 39.9 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Rear Parking Sensors | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | |||
| Privacy Glass | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Built-In Hard Drive | |||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Subwoofer | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Memory Driver's Seat | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Remote Start | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox?
The biggest change is E85 flex-fuel capability for Equinox LT and LTZ models equipped with the available 3.0-liter V6. Most of the vehicle carries over from 2010.
Is the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox a redesigned model?
No, the 2011 Equinox is not a redesign. It is the second model year of the generation introduced for 2010, with only modest powertrain and trim-equipment updates.
What became standard on the 2011 Equinox LT?
Bluetooth phone connectivity, a USB port, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls became standard on the 2011 Equinox LT. The 2LT equipment level also gained heated cloth front seats.
Can the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox run on E85?
Yes, 2011 Equinox LT and LTZ models with the available 3.0-liter V6 have E85 flex-fuel capability. The four-cylinder engine is not identified as receiving this update.
How different is the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox from the 2010 model?
The 2011 Equinox is only modestly different from the 2010 model. Its main updates are E85 capability for the available V6 and added standard equipment on certain trims, while the design, structure, transmission, and core engine lineup remain largely unchanged.