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What are the trim packages on a Chevy Equinox?

The Chevrolet Equinox is currently offered in four main trims: LS, LT, RS, and Premier.

The Equinox trim lineup has varied over different model years and markets. This article outlines the current four-trim lineup and explains, in broad terms, what buyers typically get at each level and how options can change by year.

Current trim lineup

The following four trims represent the standard lineup seen on recent Equinox models. Each trim sits above the previous in terms of features and perceived luxury, with optional packages that can add further capabilities.

LS — base level with essential technology and safety features.

LT — mid-range tier with added technology, comfort, and convenience options.

RS — sport-oriented trim featuring distinctive styling and wheels for a more dynamic look.

Premier — top-level trim offering upgraded materials, tech, and comfort features.

Note: Exact equipment, engine choices, and available options can vary by model year and region. Always check the specific build for the year you’re considering with a dealer or the official Chevrolet site.

What each trim offers

LS

The LS trim represents the entry point of the Equinox lineup, focusing on value and practicality. Buyers can expect fundamental connectivity, standard safety basics, and comfortable seating, with the option to add packages that boost technology or convenience as needed.

LT

The LT trim sits above LS and typically adds more standard and available features, such as a larger infotainment display, enhanced driver-assistance options, upgraded interior materials, and additional comfort conveniences. It’s often chosen by buyers who want more modern tech without stepping up to the top tier.

RS

The RS trim is the sport-oriented model in the lineup, featuring distinctive exterior styling cues and wheels that set it apart from the family look of the other trims. Inside, RS usually includes sport-inspired trim details and upgraded hardware to create a more dynamic feel, while still offering practical everyday usability.

Premier

The Premier is the flagship Equinox trim, typically offering the most premium materials, advanced technology, and comfort features. Expect upgraded seating surfaces, enhanced audio, navigation or larger screens, and more comprehensive driver-assistance options, along with premium styling details.

Optional packages and regional variations

Across model years, Chevrolet often bundles features into optional packages that can be added to any trim. Availability and names of these packages vary by year and market, so it’s important to verify exactly which options are included for the specific vehicle you’re considering.

Summary

The current Chevy Equinox trim lineup centers on four levels—LS, LT, RS, and Premier—each representing a step up in features, tech, and comfort. Availability and exact contents can change with model year and region, so prospective buyers should check the latest build sheets from Chevrolet or consult with a local dealer to confirm what’s included for the year they’re interested in. A careful review of the options and packages is recommended to tailor the vehicle to one’s needs and budget.

Quick takeaway

If you’re prioritizing value and essential features, start with LS. If you want more tech and convenience, look at LT. For a sportier look and feel, RS is your pick. If you want the most premium experience, Premier is the way to go.

What is the best trim for the Chevy Equinox?

Choosing the Best Equinox Model for You
For those seeking an excellent balance of technology, safety, and affordability, the 2026 LT trim is a top pick. It offers heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and an 11.3-inch infotainment touch screen—all standard.

What is the highest package for the Chevy Equinox?

The top trim for the Chevy Equinox is the Premier, which focuses on luxury and advanced features, and the RS or Activ trim, which are sportier and offer more style. The specific top trim can vary by model year, but historically, the Premier has been the luxury-oriented top trim, while newer models may designate the RS or Activ as the top trim for those prioritizing a sportier look.

Premier trim (Historically top)

Luxury and comfort: Features premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a memory setting for the driver's seat.
Advanced technology: Includes a hands-free power liftgate, wireless charging, and a larger touchscreen.
Safety: Comes with additional safety features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors.

RS and Activ trims (Newer top trims)

Sporty and stylish: These trims are designed with a bolder aesthetic, featuring unique front fascias, black emblems, and available two-tone roofs.
Interior accents: The interior often includes sport-focused details like a flat-bottom steering wheel, unique stitching, and specialized seat materials.
Performance options: May come with larger wheels and other performance-oriented features.

What are the different Equinox packages?

Chevy Equinox packages include options like the Confidence and Convenience Package for comfort and safety features, appearance packages such as the Blackout Package and Midnight Sport appearance package for a sportier look, and various other lifestyle and utility packages like the Trailering Package. Specific features vary by package and trim level, but often include items like a power liftgate, heated seats, dual-zone climate control, and advanced safety features.
This video compares the different trim levels and packages of the 2025 Chevy Equinox EV: 59sCars Made SimpleYouTube · Nov 7, 2024
Popular packages

Confidence and Convenience Package: Often includes features like a power programmable liftgate, remote engine start, dual-zone automatic climate control, and heated front seats. The "Confidence and Convenience II" adds features like ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a surround-view camera.
Appearance Packages:
- Blackout Package: Adds a more aggressive look with black exterior accents, such as black bowtie emblems, black mirror caps, and a black grille.
- Midnight Sport appearance package: A specific version of an appearance package that adds a black grille with a black surround, black bowtie emblems, and black mirror caps.
Safety Packages:
- Active Safety Package: Includes advanced safety features like HD surround vision, rear pedestrian alert, and traffic sign recognition.
Lifestyle and Utility Packages:
- All-Weather Mat Package: Includes all-weather floor mats to protect the interior.
- Cargo Convenience Package: Adds features for cargo management, such as a cargo area organizer or cover.
- Trailering Package: Provides the necessary equipment for towing.

Key considerations

Trim-specific availability: Some packages are only available on certain trim levels (e.g., Convenience Package III is for RS and ACTIV trims).
Feature overlap: There can be overlap in features between packages, and some features might be standard on higher trims.
Model year variation: Package availability and contents can differ between model years, so it's best to check the specific year you are interested in.

This video provides a tour of the 2025 Chevy Equinox's trim levels: 1mReal Mom Car ToursYouTube · Sep 3, 2024

Which is better, Equinox LT or RS?

The main differences between the Equinox LT and RS trims are their appearance and standard features; the LT is a traditional, practical trim, while the RS offers a sportier, more aggressive look with additional premium comfort and convenience features as standard. The RS trim includes blacked-out exterior accents, larger wheels, and an exclusive grille, along with interior upgrades like a flat-bottom steering wheel and premium upholstery. It also comes with more standard features such as dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power driver's seat, and Rainsense automatic wipers, which may be optional on the LT.
You can watch this video to compare the exterior and interior differences between the two models: 54sTopicMotorYouTube · Jun 19, 2025
Equinox LT

Appearance: Traditional styling with LED lighting and 17-inch machined-face wheels.
Interior: Standard cloth seats and a traditional steering wheel.
Features: Includes 11.3-inch infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and Chevy Safety Assist.

Equinox RS

Appearance: Sporty, blacked-out exterior with a unique grille, gloss black mirror caps, and 19-inch Carbon Flash wheels.
Interior: Sportier look with Evotex upholstery (synthetic leather) and a flat-bottom steering wheel.
Features: Includes all LT features plus standard upgrades like an eight-way power driver's seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, Rainsense automatic wipers, and front and rear park assist.

This video shows a side-by-side comparison of the LT and RS trims: 29sCars Made SimpleYouTube · Aug 20, 2024
Which one is right for you?

Choose the LT if: You want a practical and affordable SUV with modern technology and safety features that cover the essentials.
Choose the RS if: You prioritize a sporty appearance and want more premium features like dual-zone climate control and a power driver's seat as standard.

You can watch this video to see a breakdown of features and pricing for the two trims: 58sCars Made SimpleYouTube · May 4, 2024

Kevin Bennett

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Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.