What is the LT package on a Malibu?
The LT package on the Chevrolet Malibu is the mid‑level trim that adds features beyond the base LS, with content that varies by year but commonly includes upgraded infotainment, wheels, and comfort options.
What the LT package represents
In Chevrolet's lineup, LT denotes a step up from the base LS, often offering a balanced mix of comfort, technology, and styling. Some generations used "1LT" or "2LT" to indicate progressive LT packages with more equipment. The exact items change by model year, market, and whether GM offered the LT as a standalone package or as part of a "1LT/2LT" grouping.
Typical features you may find with LT (varies by year)
Note: The following items are commonly included in LT Malibus, but not guaranteed for every year or market. Always check the window sticker for the specific vehicle.
- Upgraded infotainment: larger touchscreen, and Apple CarPlay / Android Auto compatibility
- Alloy wheels (often 18 inches or larger)
- Comfort and convenience: power-adjustable driver seat and sometimes heated front seats
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Remote start and/or remote entry
- Fog lamps and premium exterior trim accents
- Improved interior materials (cloth or leatherette seating versus base cloth)
Vehicle equipment varies by year; always verify with the window sticker or the dealer's build sheet to confirm exact LT content.
How LT differs from LS and LTZ
LT sits between the base LS and the top-tier LTZ in most Malibu generations, offering more equipment than LS but fewer luxury touches than LTZ. In some years, GM used 1LT and 2LT naming as steps within LT, with 2LT adding more comfort and convenience features.
Key differences typically include a mix of technology, comfort, and appearance features, such as bigger wheels, upgraded infotainment, heated seats, and possibly leatherette upholstery. Always compare the specific model year to understand the exact inclusions.
- LS: base level with essential features; fewer convenience and tech options
- LT: mid-level with enhanced infotainment, wheels, and comfort options
- LTZ: higher-end trim with leather seating, advanced safety features, and premium audio
As with the LT, even among LS and LTZ, equipment varies by year and package, so check the window sticker for accuracy.
How to tell if a Malibu has LT (and 1LT/2LT)
To confirm whether a Malibu has the LT package, examine official documentation and visual cues. These checks apply whether you're shopping used or verifying a vehicle you own.
- Check the build sheet/window sticker for "LT," "1LT," or "2LT" designation and included equipment
- Look for trim badges on the body or tailgate that indicate LT
- Review the features list for infotainment, wheels, and comfort upgrades typical of LT
- VIN-based options decoding or dealer VIN tool can reveal trim level and packages
Note that some markets or years used different naming conventions (e.g., "LT" as a general mid-level alongside "LS" and "LTZ"), so verify with the dealer or GM build data.
Is the LT package still offered for new Malibus?
Chevrolet discontinued Malibu production after the 2023 model year in the United States, so there are no new Malibus with LT or any other trim for sale as of 2024 onward. The LT designation lives on in the used-market examples and historical GM literature.
For buyers seeking LT today, focus on certified pre-owned or used Malibu models from prior years, then verify the LT content via the window sticker and dealer documentation.
Summary
The LT package is the Malibu’s mid-level trim, extending the base LS with a balance of technology, comfort, and styling features. Because equipment changes across generations and markets, always verify the exact content on the window sticker or build sheet. While new Malibus with LT are no longer in production, you can still find LT-equipped examples on the used market and in historical GM literature.
