What is the difference between the Impala LTZ and LT?
In short, the LTZ trim is the luxury-oriented top variant, while the LT is a mid-level option. LTZ typically adds leather seating, premium audio, and enhanced comfort and safety features that aren’t standard on the LT. Exact equipment can vary by model year and optional packages, so always check the specific window sticker.
Chevrolet produced the Impala through 2020 in the United States, and LT and LTZ were two common trims within the 2014–2020 generation. Because Chevrolet rotated features through packages over the years, the precise contents of LT vs. LTZ can differ depending on the year and how the car was equipped at factory or by a dealer option list.
Core feature differences
The main areas where LTZ differentiates itself from LT are interior materials, comfort and convenience, and available technology and safety options. The following items reflect typical inclusions seen on LTZ compared with LT across most model years.
- Upholstery and interior trim: leather-appointed seating and upgraded interior trim on LTZ versus cloth seats and simpler trim on LT.
- Comfort and convenience: features like a power-adjustable driver seat with memory, heated front seats, and often a power sunroof on LTZ; LT generally lacks some of these as standard and uses fewer luxury appointments.
- Infotainment and audio: LTZ commonly includes a premium audio system and a larger, more advanced touchscreen; LT uses the standard system with a smaller screen, and navigation is usually optional.
- Exterior styling and wheels: LTZ versions typically wear larger, more premium wheels and brighter exterior accents, whereas LT uses standard wheels with less chrome or gloss.
- Safety and driver-assistance features: LTZ is more likely to include or offer as part of packages items such as forward collision alert, lane departure warning, side blind-spot alert, and rear park assist; LT may offer some of these only as options or not at all depending on year and package.
Note: Availability of these features varies by year and optional packages. Always verify the exact equipment list for the model you’re considering.
Year-by-year caveats and how to verify
Because Chevrolet changed equipment across generations and even within trims when options were re-packaged, it’s essential to review the specific model year’s window sticker or order sheet. Dealers can provide the exact equipment for a given LT or LTZ car, including whether features like leather, sunroof, or advanced safety tech are present as standard or optional.
Which trim should you choose?
For buyers prioritizing luxury and convenience, LTZ is generally the better choice, delivering leather seating, premium audio, and more advanced safety options. If you’re seeking a more affordable Impala with solid comfort and features and you don’t need premium leather or a Bose system, the LT offers strong value and can be enhanced with optional packages.
Summary
LTZ is the luxury-forward Impala trim with leather interiors, premium audio, and enhanced tech and safety features; LT is the mid-range trim that delivers solid equipment with fewer premium amenities. Always confirm the exact features for the specific model year, as options and standard equipment changed over time.
