What is the difference between the Equinox LT and Premier?
The Premier trim is the loftier, more feature-rich option, while the LT emphasizes value with strong tech and comfort without the premium price. Both are capable Crossovers, but the Premier adds luxury touches and more advanced options that typically aren’t standard on LT.
Overview: where LT and Premier sit in the lineup
Understanding how the LT and Premier are positioned helps buyers focus on what matters most: budget versus luxury features. Here are the main distinctions you’ll encounter in recent model years.
- Interior materials and seating: Premier عادة features leather-appointed seating, while LT uses cloth or leatherette options.
- Comfort features: Premier commonly includes heated front seats and a heated steering wheel; LT may offer these as optional upgrades or not at all.
- Audio and connectivity: Premier often comes with a premium audio system (such as Bose) and wireless charging, whereas LT focuses on core connectivity with standard audio and wired charging options.
- Convenience and styling: Premier adds a power liftgate, upgraded exterior styling, and larger wheels as standard or available equipment.
- Driver aids and visibility: Premier frequently includes more advanced or additional driver-assistance features as standard.
In short, Premier is designed to deliver a more premium feel and more convenience features out of the box, while LT aims to provide solid value with essential technology and comfort.
Interior, tech, and luxury feature differences
The following list highlights the specific cabin and technology upgrades you can expect when moving from LT to Premier. Note that exact features can vary by model year and region.
- Leather-appointed seating on Premier versus cloth/leatherette on LT.
- Heated front seats on Premier (and often a heated steering wheel) as part of standard equipment; LT may require a package or offer as an option.
- Premium audio on Premier (often Bose) compared to standard audio on LT.
- Wireless smartphone charging and enhanced connectivity features more commonly included with Premier.
- Power liftgate on Premier, with LT offering manual or optional liftgate depending on year and package.
- Higher-grade exterior styling cues and larger wheels typically associated with Premier.
These interior and tech upgrades are the most noticeable reasons buyers choose Premier over LT, especially for those who frequently value comfort and convenience on longer drives.
Performance and powertrain options
Power and drivetrain choices are a key area where trims can differ. The LT and Premier share a family of engines, but Premier often unlocks higher-output options or different configurations. Below is a typical scenario seen in recent years, though specifics may change by model year.
Engine choices by trim
The LT commonly pairs with a smaller, more efficient turbocharged engine and front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The Premier frequently offers the higher-output turbo engine as an option or standard, along with all-wheel drive in many configurations.
- LT: 1.5L turbo engine with optional all-wheel drive; emphasis on efficiency and value.
- Premier: 2.0L turbo engine with all-wheel drive commonly available or standard depending on year; emphasis on performance.
Because engine and drivetrain configurations can shift between model years and markets, it’s best to check the exact powertrain lineup for the year you’re considering.
Pricing, value, and what to expect
Pricing varies by year, region, and option packages. In general terms, Premier models sit higher on the sticker than LT models due to the added luxury and technology. The gap can be several thousand dollars, depending on the specific configuration and options chosen.
- LT typically starts at a lower price point, reflecting its value-oriented positioning.
- Premier typically carries a higher starting price due to premium features and available powertrain options.
When budgeting, consider not just the base price but the value of features you actually want. A well-equipped LT can be less expensive overall than a lean-to-mid Premier if you don’t need the added luxuries.
Which trim should you choose?
Your choice depends on what you value most: luxury and tech or budget-friendly practicality. Consider the following guidelines to help decide.
- Choose Premier if you want leather seating, a premium audio system, heated features, a power liftgate, and more driver-assistance tech as standard.
- Choose LT if you’re prioritizing price, solid technology, and comfort without paying for premium leather or extra styling and features.
- If you regularly transport passengers or equipment and value convenience features, the Premier’s extra cargo and tech perks can justify the cost.
Always compare the exact equipment lists for the model year you’re considering, as feature availability can shift with updates and regional packages.
Bottom line
Both the LT and Premier deliver solid overall value in the Equinox lineup, but Premier is the luxury-focused option with more premium materials, tech, and convenience features, while LT emphasizes affordability and essential tech. Your choice should align with your budget and how much you value the added comforts and capabilities of the Premier.
Summary
The Equinox LT and Premier differ primarily in luxury features, technology upgrades, and optional powertrain choices. Premier adds leather seating, heated and premium comfort features, a higher-end audio system, a power liftgate, and often a more powerful engine setup, while LT centers on value with essential tech and comfort. When choosing, weigh your budget against which upgrades matter most to you and verify the exact configuration for the model year you’re purchasing.
