What is the base model of a Chevy Equinox?

The base model of the Chevy Equinox is the LS trim level. This entry-level version of the popular compact SUV offers a solid set of features and capabilities at an affordable price point.

Overview of the Chevy Equinox LS

The Chevy Equinox LS is the starting point for the Equinox lineup. It comes equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and is available in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations.

In terms of standard features, the Equinox LS includes:

• Cloth upholstery


• Manually adjustable front seats


• Rearview camera


• 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto


• Keyless entry


• Automatic climate control


• Sixteen-inch alloy wheels

While the LS trim may be the base model, it still offers a well-equipped and capable SUV for those on a budget. The Equinox LS provides a comfortable and practical daily driver with a good balance of features and performance.

Customization and Upgrade Options

Buyers can further customize their Equinox LS by adding optional packages and standalone features. Some popular upgrades include:

• Convenience Package: Adds power driver's seat, remote start, and heated front seats


• Driver Confidence Package: Includes blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane change alert


• Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob


• Larger 17-inch alloy wheels


• Upgraded 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system

These options allow buyers to tailor the Equinox LS to their specific needs and preferences, adding more comfort, convenience, and safety features.

Pricing and Availability

The 2023 Chevy Equinox LS has a starting MSRP of $25,800 for the front-wheel drive model and $27,500 for the all-wheel drive version. It is widely available at Chevrolet dealerships across the United States.

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

Is Equinox LT or LS better?

So, what will you receive by upgrading with the 2022 Equinox LT? The two models have near-identical standard feature suites, but the LT does receive an 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat that the LS model lacks.

What does LT mean on an equinox?

"Equinox LT" refers to a specific trim level for the Chevrolet Equinox SUV, where "LT" stands for "Luxury Touring". This mid-tier trim level offers an upgrade over the base model with more comfort, technology, and convenience features. Standard features often include heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and an enhanced infotainment system with a larger touchscreen. 
Key features of the LT trim

• Comfort and convenience: Heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a power-adjustable driver's seat are common standard features. 
• Technology: The LT trim includes an upgraded infotainment system with a larger touchscreen and additional USB ports. 
• Safety: The LT comes with Chevy Safety Assist, which includes features like Lane Keep Assist and Automatic Emergency Braking. Additional safety features can be added through optional packages, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. 
• Engine: Some versions of the LT trim offer the option of a more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. 
• Positioning: The LT trim is positioned between the base LS and the higher-end Premier, RS, or ACTIV trims. 

What is the base model Equinox?

Equinox LS Trim
Equinox LS Trim: The Base Model with Essential Features
The 2025 Chevy Equinox LS trim is the perfect starting point for anyone seeking a reliable, affordable SUV with essential features.